[Platt] If you posit that the universe evolved in order to observe itself, then it has a lot to do with us. If you say the universe evolved for no reason at all, then you end up in a wasteland where "Each individual in his cell of isolation was told that no matter how hard he tried, no matter how hard he worked, his whole life is that of an animal that lives and thinks like any other animal. He could invent moral goals for himself, but they are just artificial inventions. Scientifically speaking he has no goals." (Lila, 22) I prefer the former scenario to the latter.
[Case] I see no reason to posit this business about the universe observing itself. What Pirsig is talking about and apparently succumbs to, is the fear that without some purpose being imposed from the outside we can have none. This need to pass the buck onto the universe or God or the MoQ is deep seated to be sure. It is terrifying to think that we are alone and left to our own devices. But if it comes down to a matter of preference I prefer honest terror to a dishonest security blanket. [Platt] I guess you are as sure that psychic energy doesn't exist as I am that the universe exhibits purpose. [Case] I don't really expect to be sure about much but it is safe to say that I see not one shred of evidence for either. 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/
