Re: Quotes and Knowledge

[lifemap@ix.netcom.com]

Subject: Quotes and Knowledge
From: Ed Baker (lifemap@ix.netcom.com)

A number of DENizens have been including these words from Myron:
"If you know better, then you have an obligation to lead.  Don't give up." -- Myron Tribus

Since the quote, for me, raises more questions than problems it solves, I call on Myron to 
clarify, so that those who use the quote, and those who read it, can have a common 
understanding, particularly as to:

1. What means "better"? Better than whom, than what, according to what standard?
2. Don't most people feel they know better than the rest of the world? Isn't it so that those 
who feel this way, and can mass the political and military power, are threats to individual 
freedom. Couldn't this be a justification for authoritarian rule?
3. Where does the "obligation" come from? What is the source, justification for this assertion 
that one has an obligation? Does one have an obligation to impose his or her values and 
worldview on everyone else?
4. What is the operational definition of "lead"? It is through questioning, or through 
establishing a hierarchy with the self-annointed one on the top, or through ...?

Ed Baker
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