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From: Edward Weick
To: Caspar Davis
Cc: Futurework; Wayne Greenall
Subject: Re: Douthwaite's Version
Date: Friday, December 18, 1998 9:31AM
<snip>
Weick:
I think that what you have said in the above paragraph is a major part of
the problem. What I fear most right now is the vast tide of pessimism which
has washed over the world. For some reason, people are expecting enormous,
catastrophic change. My elderly aunt, a very religious person, expects
Christ to return momentarily and cleanse the world of sin (there go Toronto
and Vancouver!). Many postings on the Internet indicate an almost morbid
fear of collapse and chaos. In my opinion, it is in this state of mind that
the real danger lies. It could bring us to a standstill, mortally afraid to
move out of fear of our own shadows. And, yes, I do recognize there are real
problems. But to deal with them we need reason, not overwhelming angst.
Cordell:
End of millenium thinking, emotions, panic, etc. is sure to increase.
Perception and arguments
--once rather rational-- may become strange. It is therefore more
important than ever that we ( citizens and governments
everywhere and at all levels) look out for another type of y2k problem--
moods, views,
altered perceptions, that-- if adopted by enough people at the same time--
can unglue long established institutions.
Some may applaud this phenomenon, I am a bit worried by it.
Being aware of the underlying unease might (I hope) be helpful.
arthur cordell
