ParanoidMysticFri, May 9, 2008 This is a very interesting question and worth exploring in detail. It reminds me of the prime directive from Star Trek: non-interference. Of course, it seems like there was a reason to revoke the prime directive in almost every episode...
There is something of an uphill climb in the course of consciousness evolution. Which is to say that the next step runs counter to common sense wisdom. From the solitary cell's perspective, what sense does it make to join forces with other cells? Especially if your lot is to weather the beatings on the external of the new body while other cells safely idle inside the protection you provide. Turns out, the cover you provide that internal cell allows it to specialize in ways no solitary cell could afford.
Respecting other species means turning the tables on our modus operandi. We are not condescending to the lower species. We are *helping ourselves by following the law.* We are rapidly nearing the close of the "live and let die" consciousness. Already the door has opened to the new truth, the new power. Put simply, "I want you to thrive" is the recipe for success. Illogical as it may seem, that is actually the nature of reality. When we look out for other species, provide for them, allow them to thrive, they will in turn enrich us in ways we cannot imagine.
Respect is not a matter of understanding, imho. It's not something you think. It's something you do.
This is a very interesting question and worth exploring in detail. It reminds me of the prime directive from Star Trek: non-interference. Of course, it seems like there was a reason to revoke the prime directive in almost every episode...
There is something of an uphill climb in the course of consciousness evolution. Which is to say that the next step runs counter to common sense wisdom. From the solitary cell's perspective, what sense does it make to join forces with other cells? Especially if your lot is to weather the beatings on the external of the new body while other cells safely idle inside the protection you provide. Turns out, the cover you provide that internal cell allows it to specialize in ways no solitary cell could afford.
Respecting other species means turning the tables on our modus operandi. We are not condescending to the lower species. We are *helping ourselves by following the law.* We are rapidly nearing the close of the "live and let die" consciousness. Already the door has opened to the new truth, the new power. Put simply, "I want you to thrive" is the recipe for success. Illogical as it may seem, that is actually the nature of reality. When we look out for other species, provide for them, allow them to thrive, they will in turn enrich us in ways we cannot imagine.
Respect is not a matter of understanding, imho. It's not something you think. It's something you do.
disclosure: I don't eat the meat.