We are all aware that society changes. When it does so, it is usually a change in culture that prompts it. But whilst there are as many ‘reasons’ for change as there are changes, could there be a simple mechanism behind this process of change?
Change usually happens because of people, and the people we listen to most can be seen as the shouters, mainly because they seem more sensational. But I think it’s also to do with stereotypes – we are culturally attuned to pay certain types more attention. But there’s more.
To me, society seems to evolve through frustration.
Any changes in society tend to come following frustrations at something within that society.
If Marx was right about anything, it was that great thinkers can die in obscurity because the time was not right. But if a thinker realises these frustrations and correctly judges the mood of society, then he is onto a winner.
He has become what I call a ‘cultural catalyst’.
History records him as the main element of change, but really it was society’s frustrations that created his mind-set in the first place. He is, in effect, a sponge for our thoughts.
Those thinkers who don’t follow this process simply shout on the sidelines, and are usually classed as cranks. Which means, of course, that the only difference between the crank and the genius is one of social acceptance.
Is there any wonder society is mad?
© Anthony North, October 2007
This post is based on a comment I made on The Daily Grail. Give it a try.
UPDATE: If you were interested in the my post, Rip Off Merchants (17 Oct) concerning someone claiming others’ writings as their own, a further good debate can be found on the subject here.
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Fiction Xtra – DEVIL MAY CARE - A tale from up high
My name’s Smith. At least, I think it is. That’s what I’ve been told. But being told my name by people like …
… people?
Just a minute. My name’s Smith. THEY told me. But I’m not sure that’s right; nor that they are people. My name’s Smith and I’m in …
… where? Heaven? Hell? Some crazy parallel universe …
… read more …
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