Re: virus: Re: Rationality

David McFadzean (morpheus@lucifer.com)
Tue, 25 Feb 1997 00:23:44 -0700


> On Mon, 24 Feb 1997 jonesr@gatwick.geco-prakla.slb.com wrote:
>
> > Aren't we constantly being manipulated by others? Aren't we constantly
> > manipulative? I think we are.
> >
> > Drakir

I agree wholeheartedly, to the point of saying that it was one of the
main (intended) messages of the CoV. Most people seem to be in deep
denial.

> From: Tim Rhodes <proftim@speakeasy.org>
> Date: Monday, February 24, 1997 10:49 AM
>
> You're right, of course. But many people balk at the word "manipulate".
> I think if we say "teach" or "enlighten" or "woo" or "charm" or "awaken"
> or "hold a mirror to" instead, more will see what we're (or at least what
> /I'm/ ) talking about.

I avoid using "manipulate" and "control" precisely because of the bad
connotations hinder communication. "Teach" and "enlighten" obviously
have better connotations, but also unwanted value judgements attached.
That's why I prefer "influence", it seems to be a much more neutral term.

--
David McFadzean                 david@lucifer.com
Memetic Engineer                http://www.lucifer.com/~david/
Church of Virus                 http://www.lucifer.com/virus/