Continuing from the previous blog, I think, now I should start the process of complex thinking. Are we on the right road? First of all, does the world require a road at all and should people think about all this?
I think, thinking about these is unavoidable, irrespective of whether it is required or not. This is the one assumption I have to make. Otherwise it stops here.
Now do we need a road? I mean, does the world have a defined pathway to progress? Or should humanity just leave it at that and let it go wherever it is going? This is somewhat related to the previous question and here again, if we do not need such a road, thinking stops here. Let me now assume that we need a road. (Complex thinking needs a lot of assumptions, each of which could be wrong)
What should the road be? Probably I should first analyze the road, the Modern times have shown us and the one we seem to be following - the Road of Progress. Here I face a big problem. Analysis of any form needs certain Guidelines (which unfortunately are further assumptions), which can be used to make a value judgement on something. These assumptions should help me to say whether the road of progress we follow is correct or not. Where do I get it from?
Religion? Most religions ask us to follow such and such and then it is good, else it is bad. Progress, as defined today, doesn't seem to be the best way in any Religion.
Science? I know Science as only the application of Scientific Thought and in some ways the unraveling of the unknown. I am not sure if it has something in it, which can be used to make a value judgement on Progress. Maybe at the level of Philosophy of Science there maybe something. I am not sure.
Gandhi? Read Gandhi’s Talisman here. Since I am in doubt as to whether something is good or not, I can use his Talisman and see whether it helps the poorest man I can remember. Put in context, whether Progress does any good to him. I think it certainly does him good, isn’t it?
Abraham Lincoln? When he says: “I am for those means which will give the greatest good to the greatest number.” Does Progress satisfy this criterion?
Frankly this is getting very complex. There can be so many such Guidelines. Which to choose?
I am leaving it hanging here for the time being. Based on your response and my mood, I will come back to this sometime. After all, it is one of my favorite topics. Monday, April 15, 2002
