04-09-2003, 02:02 PM
That every new idea in this context 'threatens someone's rice bowl.' Repression does not permit the free flow of 'the better idea.'
I would use, as an example, the export of the French Revolution to Central Europe, and particularly the Rhineland by Napoleon, but there was already some fertile ground for receiving the principles there anyway. What Napoleon did was remove some of the obstacles. But the reaction, of course, means that those whose rice bowls are threatened DO something about it. See the Metternich System.
It seems that the only way the idea overcomes its predecessor is via force: either via war, per the first two world wars of the 20th century, or via economic and ideological war, such as the West waged vs USSR for 40+ years.
"The better idea" doesn't 'just happen' no matter its merit.
Or so it seems to me.
I would use, as an example, the export of the French Revolution to Central Europe, and particularly the Rhineland by Napoleon, but there was already some fertile ground for receiving the principles there anyway. What Napoleon did was remove some of the obstacles. But the reaction, of course, means that those whose rice bowls are threatened DO something about it. See the Metternich System.
It seems that the only way the idea overcomes its predecessor is via force: either via war, per the first two world wars of the 20th century, or via economic and ideological war, such as the West waged vs USSR for 40+ years.
"The better idea" doesn't 'just happen' no matter its merit.
Or so it seems to me.
Cry 'Havoc' and let slip the Men 'O War!
In War, the outcome is never final. --Carl von Clausewitz--
Igitur qui desiderat pacem, praeparet bellum
John 11:35 - consider why.
In Memory of Pete
In War, the outcome is never final. --Carl von Clausewitz--
Igitur qui desiderat pacem, praeparet bellum
John 11:35 - consider why.
In Memory of Pete