Email I received from Dan Parker...
Posted: Tue Dec 17, 2002 3:14 pm
Everyone:The following is from an email I received from a man named Dan Parker...Quote:For my 2 cents, I would say Mr. Bloom's works are not primarily scientific, nor even philosophical, but political. From previous correspondence with the author, I am aware that he is a committed Zionist. In these terms, he is attempting to build a Golem, using clay that has failed before, and will fail again. That is, his books are an exercise in attempting to massage mass psychology, the better to meetcertain political objectives. He is reprising the psychological tactics he used to greatly increase the circulation of a music magazine, only this time on a larger stage. His anecdotes emphasize the dark side of human nature, without pointing out myriad examples of opposite actions, which would temper his one-sided analysis. Even as he advocates peaceful solutions, he describes one billion people (Muslims) as belonging to a religion of hate. Given Mr. Bloom's Zionist committments, it is likely his thinking (and writing) is largely driven by the emotion of fear, given the precarious position of Israel. It is also likely much, if not all, of the writing which misses the mark is happening at a subconscious level. How else can one explain his thesis on suicide, and its inverse in the tragedy of middle east suicide bombings. For truly out of the box thinking on superorganisms, I would suggest the Principia Cybernetica Web Site and such books as Peter Russell's The Global Brain (1983) or Joel de Rosnay's Symbiotic Man. For the idea that the superorganism will engage in the same old, same old, Mr. Bloom's works reign supreme. His conclusion that the solution is to discuss the issues in as neutral a setting as possible is belied by the tenor of his book. Mr. Bloom also refused to comment on a very important, but somewhat taboo subject regarding the current monetary system; although he was more than willing to discuss other issues. This provedout my initial feeling regarding how the conclusion of the book did not relate to the body of the work. Here's hoping a conflagration in the Mideast does not happen, and that there is a true move forward for humanity. Here's also hoping Mr. Bloom can get his obvious talents and energy aligned with a more positive, and accurate view of the past, and of the future. A co-writer, probably female, will be necessary for his books to truly enlighten, in my opinion. This is not to say I have a pollyannish view of what the rule of ruthlessness has caused, nor what it can threaten. For some starting ideas on actually implementing the 'discussion first' model on the MidEast, I would suggest Norm Kurland's Abrahamic concept, and Troy Davis's democracy project. Key words will get you there. I am sorryI do not have time to get further involved in your discussions of the books.You can use this post as you see fit. RegardsDan Parker Chris Edited by: Chris OConnorĀ at: 10/30/05 3:44 pm