Hi Roger and Group:
I don�t think it�s necessary to go into a complex rationale for rejecting
Pirsig�s answer to the free will issue:
�To the extent that one�s behavior is controlled by static patterns of quality it
is without choice. But to the extent that one follows Dynamic quality, which
is undefinable, one�s behavior is free.�
Our behavior is obviously controlled by static physical and biological
patterns, and to a large extent by static social patterns. Intellectual patterns
are also controlled by static patterns, e.g., signs and symbols, but less so
than the lower levels. The higher the level, the more DQ is free to influence a
pattern�s behavior.
The key assumption necessary to see how Pirsig�s statement rings true is to
recognize that DQ is within static patterns as well as being a force without.
DQ within cells makes them rejoice at sex. Celebrity is DQ within the static
social level. The DQ of New York creates the city�s horror and its power. The
chemistry professor �looking for information that will expand the static
patterns of evolution itself . . .� i.e., is motivated by DQ. And he �may have
personal motives such as �pure fun,� that is, the Dynamic Quality of his
work.� (Lila, Chap. 11).
With DQ acting within, (often below consciousness) all of us exhibit through
our behavior the free will Pirsig identifies, with some (like a chemistry
professor) exhibiting more dynamic behavior than others (like a priest). But
everyone, just in the act of speaking, exhibits DQ behavior. Although
restricted to static grammatical patterns, the words we choose to frame our
thoughts come tumbling forth dynamically.
I can no more predict what words someone will use to refute this argument
than I can predict what words I would use if I try to make this same point
tomorrow afternoon. Speaking extemporaneously is a simple, everyday
example of our �following� DQ, thereby expressing free will. When it comes
to informal speech, we�re all jazz artists.
IMHO, we need not reject Pirsig�s statement. The connection between DQ
and free will is as straightforward as the next word you choose to speak, or
let emerge, as the case may be.
Platt
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