(I’m responding to a nice “SUPER HOT” email I got this morning! Maybe you all might find this interesting?)
I don’t want to pick on anyone in particular, but the idea of “knowing the truth” about any subject is anathema to my DNA. I don’t “believe” in much, especially my OWN notions. Everything is always on the table and more data is always eagerly sought.
My “manna” is when somebody offers me brilliant information and my ideas change. I’m challenging, but often lose arguments with myself.
I mention this, because my hackles go up (obviously) when confronted with a “true believer.” Someone who “already knows all about ‘that’.” I mean ideas set in stone, people unwilling to challenge their own precepts; going from a few examples and then generalizing about “the way it is.” For me my “Faustian” desire to know and find out for myself can be extreme. Still no end in sight.
Right now I’m doing two areas of study. I’m TRYING to understand Quantum Mechanics and challenge my own Newtonian concept of the universe … see; I’m not even up to RELATIVITY yet! I’m also reading and listening to the speeches of Adolf Hitler (although I have trouble understanding his Austrian accent. I’m used to the pure Hanover accent.) I’ve read countless books on the period and how my beloved Germany became overtaken with Fascism … but, I want to study this myself, from the source. (BTW, most of Europe loved Fascism, but won’t admit it. History is written by the winners.)
Understanding Fascism is, in my opinion, vital because “the right” conditions can arise again. Remember “this” happened in the most advanced and educated country in Europe. Besides, because something is uncomfortable does not mean the subject should be avoided. Never turn away.
Hitler was worse than I thought, the atrocities were unimaginable … but, Nazi economics is, actually, interesting and relevant in today’s world. Hitler’s concepts of aristocracy and work are also worthy of note. I know, that’s like saying “the devil isn’t all bad.” But then, maybe he’s not? Nobody ever hears his side of the story! Where’s the witness for the accused?
With my mindset, I will always be challenging somebody’s “Weltanschauung.” I’m sorry; I guess that’s my “job.” The more comfortable you are, the more I’m “going after you!” Myself included.
So the statement: “Well, we all already know all about THAT!” My answer is always: “Oh really? Do you now”