Reading the book “Renaissance Mind,” and happened upon an interesting passage. The author sought to reconcile Darwin with Design by putting up a research prize. In the few years that followed, he learned what he expressed:
An unfortunate discovery I made in the process of funding this prize is that science is extremely political. Most rank-and-file scientists literally risk their careers by challenging the status quo and espousing controversial views. The only people who enjoy the freedom to challenge the status quo are outsiders like Elon Musk, plus a very few science rock stars who have such enviable track records that no one can easily take them out. The rest are advised to keep their heads down and not rock the boat.
This is not just true of Science. Humans are herd-minded. Going against the crowd is fraught with peril. In my experience, you will pay the price.
The great philosopher Rocky said the following:
The world ain’t all sunshine and rainbows. It’s a very mean and nasty place and I don’t care how tough you are it will beat you to your knees and keep you there permanently if you let it. You, me, or nobody is gonna hit as hard as life. But it ain’t about how hard ya hit. It’s about how hard you can get hit and keep moving forward. How much you can take and keep moving forward. That’s how winning is done! Now if you know what you’re worth then go out and get what you’re worth.
Rock the boat.
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Ben
In tenebris solus sto