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Oct 23, 2023Liked by Allen Frantzen

Great read, Allen. I hate to detract from a complex article with so much to say on gender, art and human sensitivities, but the following caught my attention:

"Slater traces the demise of the Victorian world, with its reliance on honor and paternalism—the old social code—and the rise of a new world order based on coercion and fear—the new code"

The honour and loyalty of paternalistic order are never discussed, which is unfortunate since such discussion is paramount in a world that still seems to insist that hard work and the merits of your achievements will stand you in good stead. Meanwhile, this system has been replaced by certification and the obedience requisite to purchase (rather than earn) said certification. Indeed the new code is coercion and fear brought about through social (intersectional) hierarchy and threats to one's livelihood if one doesn't comply with disruptive policies that often run counter to paternalistic ethics. We no longer have to earn our way into society through hard knocks and proof of our mettle, but via sycophantic strategies that demonstrate a readiness to jump through bureaucratic hoops without rocking any boats. And this whole approach is meant to turn workplaces into communities of fear and surveillance without humour or love. And from the educational facility, the workplace, and via social media, this unethical new ethics radiates like a dirty bomb, poisoning all of society. Not a great moment for those who value inner development and personal responsibility.

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Great post Allen. To me, this read like a novel. You painted a great picture of the story and from that the characters came alive. Really enjoyable and of course, thought provoking. Thanks!

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