It’s a reason why I take issue with those who say that the
human being is essentially no different from the animals; that the only reason
for our dominant position is that we have been lucky in evolving the kind of
intellect which gives us the advantage in a material world.
I think we do have something which the animal lacks,
something generally called ‘higher mind.’ This is more than mere intellect. It’s the faculty that permits us to
peruse the abstract, to appreciate aesthetic worth, to weep at the sight of a hungry child, and to give freely without
expectation of reward.
I note that there is a piece of advice given freely by those
who see themselves as successful. It’s one of the very few things they ever do
give freely: ‘Grab what you can. Do nothing for nothing. Get the highest price
you can get, and do whatever it takes because the end justifies the means.
That’s the way to become powerful and/or prosperous.' It’s good advice for those
who want to emulate the animals, but entirely inappropriate to those who aspire
to be human.
I further note that society is largely controlled and
conditioned by the emulators, and that the aspirers frequently suffer at their
hands.
* * *
This is far too late an hour to be making a post of this
sort. My Jekyll and Hyde nature usually dictates that I be serious during the
daylight hours and become silly after nightfall. I will, therefore, add an
addendum.
I just watched an episode of Agatha Christie’s Marple and her damson gin looked delightful. I
must find out how to make it.
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