User:Ryder Spearmann

The Errant Sword

In history we see that where man engages within the structures of reasoned debate, it is certain that such structures are a sword with two edges, one being the structure that harvests the fruits of debate and collaboration, and the other, the barrier by which outsiders are repelled by practiced means. One need look no further than the field of law, where persons are all but unable to defend themselves in times of challenge, requiring an advocate well placed within the structure for their defense.

I am as a babe in the woods before the cogs that turn in the service of this notable collaboration, yet there can be little doubt that it is within the nature of man that some would exploit such workings to his personal advantage, or his personal biases.

I have seen the founding principles all but ignored in deference to the smaller conventions of procedure. I have seen neutrality fall to the weapon of fairness. I have seen contribution crushed under false calls for consensus. I have seen selective adherence to principle, and silence as a restraint to action.

I have seen entrenched defenders repel outsiders by the use of administrative devices and formidable barrages of unrelenting accusation.

More than anything, those skilled and entrenched within this structure, acting in concert, constitute the gravest threat to the vision of this enterprise. Encamped around the most controversial views, they stand ready to resist any alteration to that which is by design and intent, free to be changed by all. History shows us that the warrior will eventually succumb to the blindness of total defense, subverted against the very causes he stands for.

This is where we are today.

Were I to suggest a new idea to repel this systematic prohibition of progress, I would suggest that encampment be met with a most serious disdain by all persons, citing the belief that a good work will stand and even strengthen when left subject to the winds of change.

"Whenever you find yourself on the side of the majority, it is time to pause and reflect." Mark Twain