Deceit, secrecy and violence might seem to be rational methods in a body-based world view. In the extreme form we see it in war fare strategy. In a disguised form we find it in many societies and many sub cultures.
In a mind-based world view however, the best methods are communication, openness, information and argument.
The body-based world view is the first one we find when we grow up. The mind-based view is not quite natural. It must be cultivated in order to be reached. But it can be reached by all.
Which is best? Well every individual must choose individually. It is no use saying that the mind-based view is better if no one tries to reach it.
There are some difficulties in seeking the mind-based view. One difficulty is self purification. Many stunts which are natural in the body-based view are quite sad in a mind-based view.
In a body based view we might think "I am not angry often. I am only angry when it is particularly justified". In a mind-based view, the principle is "When it seems and feels particularly justified to be angry, it is particularly good not to be angry".
Showing posts with label openness. Show all posts
Showing posts with label openness. Show all posts
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Sunday, July 5, 2009
Thought and name 2
Openness or secrecy?
Traditionally we have lived in natural lack of knowledge - the universe has been a mystery in general and in specifics. Now we approach a new phase in history, fast increased knowledge and great increase in the number of individuals with clear mind.
So we can make a choice between relying on secrecy or openness. Instinct would say: preserve some secrets. Rationality says: openness is best for all and for all times.
In a time of change - as the present one - we might need rules of transition. But the transition must be to openness.
Openness is the only guarantee for freedom. All evil powers in the world has thrived on lack of knowledge. Will new evil powers emerge? The threat is constant. The antidote is one: openness. Transparency, as it is called.
In the ordinary civil society, it is obvious that to avoid conflict and friction, we need openness about rules and obligations for all citizens.
The society is in development. During the process, the distribution of the good and the bad is a bit arbitrary. How to handle this and avoid unfairness and conflict? Openness is the only thing that works.
Traditionally we have lived in natural lack of knowledge - the universe has been a mystery in general and in specifics. Now we approach a new phase in history, fast increased knowledge and great increase in the number of individuals with clear mind.
So we can make a choice between relying on secrecy or openness. Instinct would say: preserve some secrets. Rationality says: openness is best for all and for all times.
In a time of change - as the present one - we might need rules of transition. But the transition must be to openness.
Openness is the only guarantee for freedom. All evil powers in the world has thrived on lack of knowledge. Will new evil powers emerge? The threat is constant. The antidote is one: openness. Transparency, as it is called.
In the ordinary civil society, it is obvious that to avoid conflict and friction, we need openness about rules and obligations for all citizens.
The society is in development. During the process, the distribution of the good and the bad is a bit arbitrary. How to handle this and avoid unfairness and conflict? Openness is the only thing that works.
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