>The idea that things *will* get better in our future is of course
>a variety of blind faith. Isn't that why we like to talk about
>dynamic optimism instead? A mild take on dynamic optimism is that
>it simply claims that we are *certain* to fail in finding solutions
>to our problems if we give up seeking those solutions. Dynamic
>optimism is no guarantee that solutions will be found; it is simply
>a motivating principle that keeps us seeking solutions.
<big snip>
        This is the first post I have made in a while, due to the lack of
[what I see as] intelligent and relevant >H conversation a.k.a: noise.
Anyhow, I agree with what Eric is alluding to.  I think that this principle
is probably the most open to interpretation of the five.  There needs to be
a balance between dynamic optimism and progress enacted (best dope it
so???).  At *any* cost, we must prevent dynamic optimism from becoming
'wishful thinking'.  Make dreams --lofty or mere-- of an extropian nature
into reality.  There is a quote by George Bernard Shaw, and though the exact
words of it escape me, this is its gist: "The men who dream at night do just
that --dream, but the men who dream at day are the ones who can turn their
dreams into reality."  I hope that all on this list dream in the day.  Seek
solutions, don't just dream about them.
                                        Ingredi Externus!
                                                -E. Shaun Russell  
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E. Shaun Russell				      Extropian poet\musician
e_shaun@uniserve.com
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