Charlie Stross wrote:
> 1. Forcing our fellow human beings to live their lives as we
> see fit is unethical. (Persuading them of the error of
> their ways so that they _choose_ to live their lives by
> our lights is another matter.)
I think a certain percentage of the population should be able
to live their lives as they choose.
That percentage should be based on (a) how it increases my
chances of being one of those people by allowing me greater
freedom; and (b) how it increases my chances of being one of
those people by restricting the freedom of others.
> 2. Initiating violence against someone is wrong; self-
> defense is right.
I wouldn't put it as simply as that.
> 3. The scientific method provides a better way of evaluating
> reality than any religious dogma.
Agreed.
> 4. Progress (increases in human intelligence, longevity,
> wealth, and happiness) is possible.
Agreed.
> 5. Central control is usually less efficient than
> distributed control.
To be honest, I don't know.
> 6. Empowering people to learn, work, and transcend their
> limits is a good thing.
Unless it's a bad thing.
---Items 1, 2, 5 and 6 could be at odds with my primary goal: to stay alive until I figure out what my primary goal is. (Items 3 and 4 are necessary for that goal.)
BM
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