I think that when an individual forms an idea, then it is better formed if discussed with other humans. I argue quite a lot, I have even been known to play devils advocate from time to time. But as I say elsewhere, I do this in order to clarify my own thoughts, to test them against the thoughts of others. I think that it is imperative that we each do this. How can you know a good idea for what it is without first hearing bad ideas or indeed examining whether or not a better idea already exists?
On Friday, 25 January 2013 07:43:17 UTC, archytas wrote:
If there is one concept on Earth that has been the absolute bane of
human existence (besides global elitism), it would have to be the
concept of the "majority opinion". The moment men began refusing to
develop their own world views without first asking "What does everyone
else think?", they set themselves up for an endless future of
failures. We are, of course, very social beings, and our natures
drive us to seek those of like mind and spirit in what some might call
a "tribal imperative". However, this imperative to organize is often
manipulated by those who understand the psychological mechanisms
behind it. Oligarchs and tyrants abuse and exploit the inherent
social natures of the people in order to fool them into abandoning
their individuality for the sake of the group, or some abstract and
dishonest ideal. When successful, the organization of a culture
becomes bitter and twisted, changing from a tribe or a community of
sovereign individuals, into a nightmare collective of soulless sheep.
Human beings desperately want to belong, but, they also desperately
want to understand the environment around them. Often, the desire to
belong and the desire to know the truth conflict. In some societies,
in order to be accepted, one must give up on his search for truth and
avoid eliciting the anger of others. This causes a severe mental and
emotional disturbance within a population. In order to reconcile
their conflicting needs within a system that does not nurture their
quest for transparency, they tend to unconsciously cling to the
"majority view" as if their very existence depends on it. The idea of
the majority view or the "mainstream", gives people the sense that
they are a part of a group, and at the same time, gives them the
illusion of being informed.
The above from Zerohedge - is it right? What does it say about our
general ability to argue rationally? I agree with what is said here -
yet believe it suggests we need a radical alternative of education as
we have experienced it.
0 comentários:
Postar um comentário