From: Delvieron@aol.com
Date: Wed Mar 10 1999 - 05:27:12 MST
KPJ,
I think we have both delineated some possible models of the personalities
of Powers. I would guess that we weigh the various probabilities of these
various models differently. I suppose my goal is to strive to discover,
create, and/or become post-Singularity Power(s) which have the values I have
come to cherish in humanity, preferably with a minimum of the faults. You say
that there is only fairness among equals? I would go even further and say
that the Universe is a profoundly unfair place, even for those engaged in
overall equal relationships, because I doubt that any two beings are ever
completely equally matched in their advantages and disadvantages over time.
Sometimes one is more powerful, sometimes the other. Now, I happen to believe
that we should work to impose some degree of "fairness" upon the Universe, by
which I mean some sort of consistent (though not static) set of rules for
living in a society which will maximize the potential for personal growth and
freedom while minimizing harm and fear thereof. Now these two are not always
complementary values, thus there are many possible ideas as to what the
optimum society is. Extropianism puts a premium on freedom and self-
determinism, allowing a large amount of risk and uncertainty, but limits that
freedom when it comes to those who try to take it away from others (which is a
perfectly reasonable constraint in my opinion). Other systems weigh these
competing values differently. Getting a little off-topic here....let's just
say I agree it is easier to have a "fair" system among relative equals. I do
not know that it is impossible to have a "fair" system among those of varying
abilities; I can imagine a community of those of unequal levels of ability who
share a similar worldview nontheless and would be willing to all live by the
same code of social interaction. I would say that a system which treats
everyone as equals is not realistic....what about one that treats all persons
as precious, from the least puny brain to the greatest Power, of unique worth
in and of itself.
Glen
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