From: Samantha Atkins (samantha@objectent.com)
Date: Mon May 27 2002 - 14:21:33 MDT
I believe Harvey's post in unclear about the Principles. Here
are some of my takes. I have noticed that a lot of people put
various spins on these things that I do not agree with. So here
are mine.
1) Perpetual Progress
I have complete agreeemnt with seeking increased intellience,
wisdom and effectiveness. I have full agreement with seeking
full self-actualization and removing roadblocks to
self-actualization. I extent it to striving for full
self-actualization and removal of roadblocks to same for all not
just myself or a group of like minded people.
A caveat here is that I think some notions of perpetual progress
are more than a bit demented. Perpetual progress is not limited
to and does not always require gobbling more and more physical
resources. There are other dimensions of progress.
2) Self-transformation
Agreeement fully with continued moral, intellectual and physical
self-improvement. I would add spiritual self-improvement and
refinement. I am not a strict materialist. I find materialism
provincial as the focus is much too narrow.
3) Practical Optimism
A basic stance of reachable possibilities leading us forward is
certainly invigorating and healthy.
4) Intelligent technology
The transcending of limits via technology and using technology
intelligently for the improvement of life as stated is something
I whole-heartedly subscribe to. I was glad to see the wording
that technology is not an end in itself byt means towards the
improvement of life.
5) Open society
I am wholly in favor of open society. However, I do not believe
there is no need for any centralized power at all. I
particularly think we have our work cut out for us in the realm
of personal and social ethics. The latter are expressed as law
that all citizens are expected to obey and will experience
consequences if they do not. I do not agree with some
interpretations that laws, except for enforcing contracts, are
invalid. I also would underscore Open Information as crucial
for maximum extropy.
6) Self-Direction
Some of this was covered in (1). But indinpenet invidual
freedom and responsibility is clearly required as are
self-direction. But these are within the frame and limits of
personal and social ethics. Respect for others is something I
very strongly support and affirm.
7) Rational Thinking
I have quite strong respect for rational thinking. However I
don't believe that "blind faith" and "dogma" are the only other
ways of knowing and deciding. Remaining open to questions and
challenges to our beliefs and ways is obviously much for the good.
So in answer to the question, Yes. I do believe in the
principles. I don't always agree with some people's spin and
interpretation of them however. But that is as it should be for
anyone with an open and active mind.
- samantha
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