Politicians and dogs

Politicians are well-trained dogs. Our dog trainer once said that “dogs only do what they want to do.” By providing an attractive stimulus they will behave in ways that you want them to behave. Dogs like treats. Politicians like power and money. Politicians will only perform tricks for power or money. Want politicians to do something? Reach into your training pouch and bring out some power and money.

Patience

From “Bodhisattvacharyavatara” (A Guide to the Bodhisattva’s Way of Life) by Shantideva. More on the guide

Whatever wholesome deeds, // Such as venerating the Buddhas, and generosity, // That have been amassed over a thousand aeons //Will all be destroyed in one moment of anger.

There is no evil like hatred, // And no fortitude like patience. // Thus I should strive in various ways // To meditate on patience.

One of the favourite mantras of the techno-optimist is that “the wisdom of crowds will save us.” That with a million collective inputs, we will find solutions that make the world a better place.

Is this true?

Why is it that wisdom and not madness is the state of crowds? There are too many examples of foolishness in crowds. I don’t think we can have the wisdom of crowds without their madness.