Re: virus: Strange attractors and meta-religions (was God and Level-3)

Tim Rhodes (proftim@speakeasy.org)
Sat, 5 Apr 1997 11:31:14 -0800 (PST)


On Fri, 4 Apr 1997, Mark Hornberger wrote:

> >> I don't think the world is really all that bad, for me.
> >
> >Ahhh... I see. So you've taken the pill as well. (Some call "the pill"
> >just another meme, but we know better don't we?) Welcome to the other
> >side. Did you get your armband yet?
> >
> LOL I guess I'm unfamiliar with this pill - I'm new to virus.

A quick review:
On Wed, 2 Apr 1997, Tony Hindle wrote:

> >I don't think David is arguing against "positive thinking". He's
> >arguing against intentional "self-deceit".
> I would like to be certain of this. David in fact ANYONE. if you
> could swallow a tablet right now that would have the effect of making
> you believe the world got better and better (imagine anything you like)
> would you? (you forget you've taken it instantly etc)

To which I responded:

Oddly, there's an entry in my journal to the effect that I was about to
swallow such a tablet. Although I don't recall ever doing it. Funny,
that. Oh, well... Sure is a great day today isn't it? And I hear
tomorrow will be even better! Things sure are looking up around here!!!

> I started
> that particular coping mechanism when I started reading about Zen Buddhism,
> and later Marcus Aurelius. I just get tired of everyone bemoaning about
> how *horrible* everything is; there's no justice, etc. etc. People just
> need to get over it.

Easier said than done, unfortunately.

-Prof. Tim