October 2013
SELECTION
Is selection destiny?
Does the path we choose inescapably determine the results we must face - either individually or together?
One thing is certain:
No one may grasp all of the facts that apply to any particular set of circumstances. Understanding is choice. From the multitude of facts that may be true we often choose to believe those that support our personal vision of what we want and of what we think the world should be like. If we are aboriginal hunter-gatherers we choose one set of facts to explain what we see before us. If we are modern dwellers in a large urban setting, we choose a different set of facts as the cause of what we view around us.
So what is true?
The scientist gets around this problem by leaving absolute truth out of the picture. Instead the scientist asks: what is the probable set of facts that justify the results of my experiment? And if someone else may conduct the same experiment and get the same result, that particular set of facts is probably the cause.
However, most of us do not set up experiments and look at the outcome to determine what we believe. In explaining the world and in deciding what to believe and what to do we usually turn to our desires and to our feelings.
We ask:
What do we want? How can we get it? What will it take to make us feel good?
For many it simply comes down to service: We want others to do. We want to have. Why should we do anything if we can get someone else to do it for us? In very sophisticated circles they call this delegation.
Problem is:
In our modern economy getting others to do what we want usually requires cash or credit or both - and usually a great deal of it.
If we want others to do for us, we need income or wealth or preferably both. The exception of course is having access to brute force. If we own an army, a well disciplined police force. a company staff, or have the ability to use weapons or other methods of coercion at will, then convincing others to do as we please may prove easier.
Which “facts” shall we select?
If individuals are lazy, often inept, frequently incapable of learning, without morality, and susceptible to mass manipulation, we will choose one path.
If individuals are energetic, usually capable, concerned about justice for themselves and others, and able to overcome obstacles in pursuit of their dreams, we will choose another path.
And your view?
Which description of the human being do you prefer to select?
Which view best supports your personal beliefs?
The choice is yours.
