2006-02-18 Models, Maps and Visions of Tomorrow

2006-02-18 David Brin Libertarian Reform Caucus \political ideological mapping\left-right political mapping\archive.org/links http://web.archive.org/web/20071012140019/www.reformthelp.org/marketing/positioning/models.php Models, Maps and Visions of Tomorrow Models, Maps and Visions of Tomorrow  Ever notice how sometimes a vehement argument can rage for hours, only to have the parties find out they were in agreement all along? Small differences in nomenclature – in definitions or logic – can make apparent bitter foes out of folk who might have been natural allies. One reason for this recurring and sometimes tragic irony is the way we take to labels.

If, say, one person claims to be a Democrat, a self-identified Republican is likely to hear that person's statements through a filter of preconceptions – What are Democrats like? – or – How should a good Republican react? Often, we hear exactly what we expected to hear, whether or not that was what the other person really meant. Thus we make strawmen of others, and deny ourselves the wisdom of complexity. Complete text: David Brin/Models, Maps and Visions of Tomorrow

&ldquo;Most libertarians know - far better than others - that the hoary old left-right political spectrum is worse than useless. Alas, some of the “better alternatives” only serve to muddy the waters. Here, scientist and science fiction author David Brin suggests a few new models that may be helpful... if taken with a grain of salt.&rdquo;   