Arlo: I think your assertion that "the MOQ is purely a metaphysics of 'chance' " is contradicted by the following passage from Lila:
"On the other hand, the shift in cell reproduction from mitosis to meiosis to permit sexual choice and allow huge DNA diversification is a Dynamic advance. So is the collective organization of cells into metazoan societies called plants and animals. So are sexual choice, symbiosis, death and regeneration, communality, communication, speculative thought curiosity and art. Most of these, when viewed in a substance-centered evolutionary way, are thought of as mere incidental properties of the molecular machine. But in a value-centered explanation of evolution they are close to the Dynamic process itself, pulling the pattern of life forward to greater levels of versatility and freedom." (Lila, 11) Pirsig's explanation of evolution in Chapter 11 is based on the premise that the forces of DQ and SQ -- not chance -- account for the rise from amoeba to man. Whether "pulling the pattern of life forward to greater levels of versatility and freedom" suggest an "intelligent designer" is open to interpretation. The very existence of Quality suggests a prior source of some kind, although I recognize only too well the Truth of infinite regress. As for a plan, evolution towards greater freedom and versatility suggests a purpose if not an actual plan. The MOQ a metaphysics of chance? I don't think so, based on Pirsig's own words. Ron: Platt, Arlo, Krimel, I think what is being forgotten is that first and foremost MoQ is an intellectual pattern. With this in mind, I'd like To dissect the Lila quotes. 1.He speaks of Dynamic advancements In evolution interpreted in a value centered way. What You say? Dynamic is supposed to be "undefined"? Then what in the hell is he talking about? This is the first misconception of the DQ/SQ split And this quote and the consequent argument is the evidence. The DQ/SQ split has more explanatory power because it Allows one to discuss Dynamic Qualities such as ie: " cell reproduction from mitosis to meiosis to permit sexual choice and allow huge DNA diversification, the collective organization of cells into metazoan societies called plants and animals. sexual choice, symbiosis, death and regeneration, communality, communication, speculative thought curiosity and art." Most of these, when viewed in a substance-centered evolutionary way,(static-centered) are thought of as mere incidental properties of the molecular machine." Ron: And that's just the argument you gents are having. That these incidentals are by chance or design. DQ becomes this mysterious entity which is "pulling the pattern of life forward to greater levels of versatility and freedom." (Lila, 11) when what really is pulling the pattern of life forward to greater levels of versatility and freedom, Is the intellectual patterns of the dynamic understanding of these qualities. Because DQ is just an intellectual pattern that describes experience. So the argument between chance and purpose is an objective one. Not a value centered understanding of concepts. Moq_Discuss mailing list Listinfo, Unsubscribing etc. http://lists.moqtalk.org/listinfo.cgi/moq_discuss-moqtalk.org Archives: http://lists.moqtalk.org/pipermail/moq_discuss-moqtalk.org/ http://moq.org.uk/pipermail/moq_discuss_archive/
