On 10 Nov 2010 at 11:36 AM, Platt Holden wrote:
Hi Ham, I'm with you. Just not in the same way. I agree that values emanate from a transcendent source. You call it Absolute Essence. Buddhists call it Atman. Scientists call it Energy. I call it Cosmic Consciousness. And, I too inject that concept with a bit of intuitional insight, only instead of coming up with a rationale that approximates the hidden truth, I come up with beauty's impact as revealing truth -- beauty being another gift from the Creator. Each of us has the same goal, and each respects the other's methods of grasping it. So I see our difference as a matter of emphasis, not controversy.
I haven't seen "Cosmic Conciousness" mentioned since joining the Rosicrucian Society with my dad at age 10! (Actually, I had almost forgotten the term.) Your love of Beauty shows that you are a true esthete, Platt. I only wish some of my friends and relatives could derive as much enjoyment from music and the arts. This is indeed the purest, most direct source of experiential value. And I agree that for those whose sensibilities are oriented to aesthetic value, no epistemological "rationale" is necessary.
But, I wonder, Ham. What is it that draws you to this site? Since you disagree with much of Pirsig's views, what do you find here of continuing interest? Just curious.
I'm glad you added that last line, Platt. When others, like dmb and their ilk ask me: "What are you doing here?" they really mean "Why don't you get out of my hair and leave?"
As I've said before, I was drawn to the MoQ while researching Value for my website, and was invited to join the MD by Mr. Pirsig in a short response to a query about his Quality thesis. That was in 2004. Since then, I've found the discussion thought-provoking, although I don't often agree with the ideas presented. I suppose it's the "high quality level" of comments I've come to expect from participants like yourself that has made it well worth my while. I also enjoy the challenge of confronting serious thinkers with a different perspective. If nothing else, it's good exercise for a would-be philosopher.
As you know, for some time I was doubtful that my contrarian views would be tolerated here. However, having "tested the waters" with some bold assertions recently, I'm pleased to report that my apostasy has so far not sufficed for Horse to put me on the "ejection list." Seriously though, Platt, would a philosophy forum be as intellectually stimulating without at least one renegade in its midst?
Thanks for your concern, and kindest regards, Ham 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/md/archives.html
