From: Dehede011@aol.com
Date: Sat Oct 12 2002 - 16:45:20 MDT
In a message dated 10/12/2002 2:11:20 PM Central Standard Time,
bradbury@aeiveos.com writes: So do we really need new frontiers or does
religion run into hands that it can't trump?
Robert,
There are certain things I take for granted. I believe that The Bell
Curve is entirely correct when it says that back about 1900 the economy
became sufficiently high tech that it put a premium on hiring the GT to run
the businesses. As a result of this (and now the internet) the GT are
forming their own community.
I believe there is a developing problem with those at the left end of
the bell curve getting exactly that -- left.
As a result the movers and shakers will be the GT. No doubt the left
end of the curve will have opinions but they will not be making the decisions
that direct the society.
Of course you will, or at least can, object that with superior numbers
the luddites can simply outlaw gene research, etc. They can have the numbers
and politically could carry the day. However I recall in the early to mid
70s when there was a move to outlaw genetic research -- the move can to a
sudden screeching halt. I paid attention until I found out what had
happened. At that time they believed that all was required to do serious
genetic research was a space about the size of the average suburban home, an
education about equal to a masters degree and wealth equal to that of the
well to do American. Given those conditions trying to outlaw research was
just silly. I don't know if that belief was true nor do I know if it is
still true but I am sure it will often be true. Heck, they say Apple or
somebody started with the family garage.
So my point is that no one can and will halt our advancing our
interests. I also believe that the left end of the bell curve will continue
to indulge their own pursuits without our being able to interfere whether
that interest is religion, Canasta or bowling with lopsided balls.
As an Anglican I will also predict that those of us that continue to
support that church and similar ones will continue to do so. We will find
sufficient converts to our cause among those that come to us looking for what
we have to offer.
Religion "ain't" hit the wall.
Ron h.
Oh, and as far as new frontiers -- we will continue to push the
scientific frontiers simply because they are profitable and will be
encouraged either openly or secretly. As to space has anyone notice that
even as the government sponsored research has lagged the private sector has
been quietly proceeding apace.
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