DrContrarian

In a previous piece I encourage people to question their beliefs. I asked the question: Why do people follow/subscribe to popular thoughts and ideas? It is a question that probably has several answers rather than one, but high on that list for me is the propensity people have for confusing change with progress. Progressive is a label that many aspire too. It just seems so smart, doesn’t it? Modern and post-modern societies generally regard all the changes from the pre-modern area (like the beliefs listed above) as ‘progressive’. I wonder if most of the changes aren’t merely changes rather than progress? People don’t understand progress. A lighthouse can be progressive. Most people would see a lighthouse as something static, never-changing and therefore incapable of making ‘progress’. But every time the blinking lighthouse helps ships navigate and steer clear of the rocks, it progressively saves lives. It is its very static, unchanging nature that allows it to do the...

Today, if Twitter is anything to go by, then there is a ‘right’ way to think and believe. This list of cultural beliefs and norms that are prevalent in modern societies, include for instance. ·          Racism is wrong ·          Democracy is right ·          Gender is a fluid, social construct ·          Religion is a primitive belief system ·          Politically we should lean left ·          Diversity should be encouraged ·          Climate change is real ·          Global Trade should be encouraged Once upon a time, we believed the opposite on all of the above. I am not suggesting you (or I) should not believe any of the above. But, ...

Dear Stan, So, you made a speech about racism. It was really well-spoken and a lesson in rhetoric for all. A few facts in advance: Racism exists everywhere. Including all the examples that he mentions. Racism is wrong and it hurts. And no doubt that the racism that existed back then held the people back. However, the type of racism that exists today is not the same as it was then when it was institutionalised and legalised. The racism that exists today is pervasive and much more subtle - and is prevalent amongst ALL races. So, what I am saying is that trotting out racism as an excuse for death rates, under-achievement and general disadvantage is no longer valid. There is no official penalty that exists because you are from a different race. In fact, it is an advantage in many respects. And the unofficial 'penalty' that exists, applies to all. I wonder why would someone who is of mixed race, chose to identify with one side of his heritage over the other? Is...