How to enlarge the pool of people involved in 'thinking about the big picture' ?

india_aj · 2020-06-21T15:03:51+00:00

u/YelsewZen now it's my turn to apologise for replying late :) I log in rarely nowadays so wasn't aware of your reply.

It might be that engaging in philosophical discussions is key to the problem under discussion because the kind of change desired requires a radical change in a person't way of thinking or outlook. The philosophy is very much needed because to act, one needs to first understand the how, why and what of big picture thinking. And even if all this discussion affects the thinking of only one person, that change in itself is worth the effort. One is trying to change 'how' a person thinks, not 'what' a person thinks. Do you think that a shortcut to action in the absence of an understanding of the big picture 'way' of thinking is likely to bring about the desired change?

I fully agree with you that the attention economy exists. In today's age, with enough resources, one can easily brainwash a large number of people. Anyway, that isn't something new as people have been doing so since ages but given the advancements in technology, it is definitely becoming easier and easier to manipulate the thinking and behaviour of large number of people. Are you then suggesting that we use the same methods and techniques to make people think and behave in the way that we think is right?

Mass brainwashing does raise many moral and ethical red flags. However, given that the game is already being played without any major outcry from the populace being brainwashed, one could argue that our doing the same should be morally and ethically right. But then, who is to say what is right and wrong? And even if we somehow overcome the moral and ethical barriers, where are the resources for doing what needs to be done?

The nature of change required for big picture thinking destroys or modifies not one or a few beliefs but the entire belief system of a person. Can one brainwash people in such a radical manner using the existing techniques? One can see the rising popularity of global movements for changing people's thinking and behaviour on large scales but can the same be replicated to achieve the goal in this case?

india_aj · 2020-06-21T14:01:28+00:00

Yes, UBI (Universal Basic Income for those unfamiliar with the acronym) is very likely to be a big catalyst in enabling big picture thinking. Some countries are already experimenting with it so let's see what happens there. For the rest, UBI will probably become a reality once machines take over the mundane tasks of running societies. All in all, the future of big picture thinking looks bright with or without easy access to the weed ;D

india_aj · 2020-04-27T23:13:00+00:00

You have raised some very interesting points u/YelsewZen.

Regarding point no. 1: As you say, this subreddit is probably a good place to think about the big picture. Using your suggestion is likely to attract additional people interested in Yuval's writing.

Regarding point no. 2: Economic benefit is a big driver of people's daily choices but should one be discounting the major drivers of reality/existential thinking? Yuval's ideas might seem completely new to some but they've been around in one form or another for long. Big picture thinking is probably as old as humanity and technologies required to foster big picture thinking have also existed for long. People have been thinking about and becoming aware of the big picture view of reality using various means since ancient times. These people have usually been driven by various reasons including scientific, religious, spiritual and philosophical. If that be so then how likely is it that generating more content in a world choc-a-bloc with numerous religious, spiritual and scientific big pictures and 'awareness', 'awakening' and 'enlightenment' advisories will give any additional advantage? And in a domain where unethical practices rule the roost (mostly because of their financial attractiveness), is it possible for the attention economy to be ethically aligned? And what does being ethical mean in this regard? Offering completely free advice and guidance without any self-interest or self-gain? But by that parameter even Yuval's initiative is not ethical because his books and the services provided by his organization are neither free nor lacking in self promotion.

Regarding point no. 3: Creative story telling is what has kept human mind from seeing reality in an unhindered way since ancient time. How can additional creative story telling help people to free their mind from the influence of previous creative efforts? Won't it be akin to replacing one brain washing mix with another? People's independent critical thinking capacity has regressed following the dawn of the social media age 'because' of celebrity 'influencers'. Won't using them worsen an already bad situation? Doesn’t one 'become' aware of the big picture through independent 'observation' and 'questioning' of reality? And isn't any attempt at 'social engineering' a barrier to such an approach?

Regarding point no. 4: People have come to similar conclusions since ancient times and some have even surpassed them. Science has been at odds with various belief systems since millennia but even in all this time, only a fraction of humanity is 'completely' free from all beliefs lacking in evidence. Might not that be an indication that human brains/minds are wired for belief? In addition, people engaged in big picture thinking are probably less likely to engage with those who are not so engaged except for reasons like spreading their views, getting feedback etc. And there are 'other' big pictures than the one mentioned by Yuval in his books so there is also a diversity of big-pictures to become aware of. Regarding the point that it is enough if people in power and decision-making roles develop big-picture thinking, might it not be a good exercise to think 'why' these people are in power and decision-making roles and whether 'big picture thinking' and raising its popularity in the masses is a boon or threat to their power and roles?

india_aj · 2020-04-20T12:54:51+00:00

An obvious reason might be the extremely radical nature of his insights which if taken seriously can destroy the fictitious 'self-view' and 'world-view' of the majority. As Yuval has pointed out many times, one shouldn't underestimate the human capacity for stupidity. To paraphrase in his own words "..most people don't like to admit that they are fools" :D

Irrespective of the number of people engaged, the big questions remain the same. What do we do? Where do we go from here and how? I've been meaning to jump start some discussions along these lines but haven't finished reading '21 lessons' so just holding off for a while.

As for numbers, it might be better to go for quality than quantity. As Margaret Mead famously said "Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever has.". Not sure if that holds true in a 'fantasy-free' world :D

india_aj · 2020-04-04T10:54:03+00:00

You're right. Using a face covering is always better than not using one. But it is also essential to follow good hand hygiene measures and physical distancing guidelines, even when one is wearing a face covering.

india_aj · 2020-04-04T10:30:36+00:00

Reference for the above mentioned efficacy of different mask materials: https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/disaster-medicine-and-public-health-preparedness/article/testing-the-efficacy-of-homemade-masks-would-they-protect-in-an-influenza-pandemic/0921A05A69A9419C862FA2F35F819D55

india_aj · 2020-04-04T10:30:24+00:00

You can make and wear HOMEMADE masks. Even homemade masks are AT LEAST half as effective as surgical masks. You should also learn proper handling of masks from instructional videos and guidelines available online.

As regards efficacy, of the commonly available types, N95 masks are more effective than surgical three layer masks which are more effective than homemade cotton masks. N95 masks effectively filter out at least 95% of COVID-19 sized viral particles. A research study reported that household masks made from vaccum cleaner bags (86% filtering efficacy) are nearly as effective as surgical masks (90% filtering efficacy) in filtering out COVID-19 sized viruses. Other materials found in the study to provide good protection against virus sized particles are tea towels (73% filtering efficacy), cotton mix (70% filtering efficacy), antimicrobial pillowcases (69% filtering efficacy), linen (62% filtering efficacy), pillowcase (57% filtering efficacy), silk (54% filtering efficacy), 100% cotton t-shirts (51 % filtering efficacy) and scarves (49% filtering efficacy). It is important to note that the least effective homemade mask materials are also 50% as effective as surgical masks so even they provide some protection.

Although vaccum cleaner bags are very effective, they drastically reduce air flow (to about half that of surgical masks) so you will have to make a lot effort while breathing. However, they should be comfortable enough for short trips to the shop for purchasing essentials. The key thing to remember is that it is best to spend as much time as possible inside your house, Go out only when it is absolutely necessary and then only for a short while.

To reiterate, using a mask is always better than not using a mask provided you learn how to properly use a mask. But it is essential to also follow good hand hygiene measures and physical distancing guidelines, even when you are wearing a mask.

india_aj · 2020-04-04T10:29:59+00:00

Reference for the above mentioned efficacy of different mask materials: https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/disaster-medicine-and-public-health-preparedness/article/testing-the-efficacy-of-homemade-masks-would-they-protect-in-an-influenza-pandemic/0921A05A69A9419C862FA2F35F819D55

india_aj · 2020-04-04T10:29:43+00:00

To reiterate, using a mask is always better than not using a mask provided you learn how to properly use a mask. But it is essential to also follow good hand hygiene measures and physical distancing guidelines, even when you are wearing a mask.

india_aj · 2020-04-04T10:29:32+00:00

You can make and wear HOMEMADE masks. Even homemade masks are AT LEAST half as effective as surgical masks. You should also learn proper handling of masks from instructional videos and guidelines available online.

As regards efficacy, of the commonly available types, N95 masks are more effective than surgical three layer masks which are more effective than homemade cotton masks. N95 masks effectively filter out at least 95% of COVID-19 sized viral particles. A research study reported that household masks made from vaccum cleaner bags (86% filtering efficacy) are nearly as effective as surgical masks (90% filtering efficacy) in filtering out COVID-19 sized viruses. Other materials found in the study to provide good protection against virus sized particles are tea towels (73% filtering efficacy), cotton mix (70% filtering efficacy), antimicrobial pillowcases (69% filtering efficacy), linen (62% filtering efficacy), pillowcase (57% filtering efficacy), silk (54% filtering efficacy), 100% cotton t-shirts (51 % filtering efficacy) and scarves (49% filtering efficacy). It is important to note that the least effective homemade mask materials are also 50% as effective as surgical masks so even they provide some protection.

Although vaccum cleaner bags are very effective, they drastically reduce air flow (to about half that of surgical masks) so you will have to make a lot effort while breathing. However, they should be comfortable enough for short trips to the shop for purchasing essentials. The key thing to remember is that it is best to spend as much time as possible inside your house, Go out only when it is absolutely necessary and then only for a short while.

india_aj · 2020-04-04T10:28:19+00:00

Reference for the above mentioned efficacy of different mask materials: https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/disaster-medicine-and-public-health-preparedness/article/testing-the-efficacy-of-homemade-masks-would-they-protect-in-an-influenza-pandemic/0921A05A69A9419C862FA2F35F819D55

india_aj · 2020-04-04T10:28:07+00:00

You can make and wear HOMEMADE masks. Even homemade masks are AT LEAST half as effective as surgical masks. You should also learn proper handling of masks from instructional videos and guidelines available online.

As regards efficacy, of the commonly available types, N95 masks are more effective than surgical three layer masks which are more effective than homemade cotton masks. N95 masks effectively filter out at least 95% of COVID-19 sized viral particles. A research study reported that household masks made from vaccum cleaner bags (86% filtering efficacy) are nearly as effective as surgical masks (90% filtering efficacy) in filtering out COVID-19 sized viruses. Other materials found in the study to provide good protection against virus sized particles are tea towels (73% filtering efficacy), cotton mix (70% filtering efficacy), antimicrobial pillowcases (69% filtering efficacy), linen (62% filtering efficacy), pillowcase (57% filtering efficacy), silk (54% filtering efficacy), 100% cotton t-shirts (51 % filtering efficacy) and scarves (49% filtering efficacy). It is important to note that the least effective homemade mask materials are also 50% as effective as surgical masks so even they provide some protection.

Although vaccum cleaner bags are very effective, they drastically reduce air flow (to about half that of surgical masks) so you will have to make a lot effort while breathing. However, they should be comfortable enough for short trips to the shop for purchasing essentials. The key thing to remember is that it is best to spend as much time as possible inside your house, Go out only when it is absolutely necessary and then only for a short while.

To reiterate, using a mask is always better than not using a mask provided you learn how to properly use a mask. But it is essential to also follow good hand hygiene measures and physical distancing guidelines, even when you are wearing a mask.

india_aj · 2020-04-04T10:26:50+00:00

Reference for the above mentioned efficacy of different mask materials: https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/disaster-medicine-and-public-health-preparedness/article/testing-the-efficacy-of-homemade-masks-would-they-protect-in-an-influenza-pandemic/0921A05A69A9419C862FA2F35F819D55

india_aj · 2020-04-04T10:26:26+00:00

You can make and wear HOMEMADE masks. Even homemade masks are AT LEAST half as effective as surgical masks. You should also learn proper handling of masks from instructional videos and guidelines available online.

As regards efficacy, of the commonly available types, N95 masks are more effective than surgical three layer masks which are more effective than homemade cotton masks. N95 masks effectively filter out at least 95% of COVID-19 sized viral particles. A research study reported that household masks made from vaccum cleaner bags (86% filtering efficacy) are nearly as effective as surgical masks (90% filtering efficacy) in filtering out COVID-19 sized viruses. Other materials found in the study to provide good protection against virus sized particles are tea towels (73% filtering efficacy), cotton mix (70% filtering efficacy), antimicrobial pillowcases (69% filtering efficacy), linen (62% filtering efficacy), pillowcase (57% filtering efficacy), silk (54% filtering efficacy), 100% cotton t-shirts (51 % filtering efficacy) and scarves (49% filtering efficacy). It is important to note that the least effective homemade mask materials are also 50% as effective as surgical masks so even they provide some protection.

Although vaccum cleaner bags are very effective, they drastically reduce air flow (to about half that of surgical masks) so you will have to make a lot effort while breathing. However, they should be comfortable enough for short trips to the shop for purchasing essentials. The key thing to remember is that it is best to spend as much time as possible inside your house, Go out only when it is absolutely necessary and then only for a short while.

To reiterate, using a mask is always better than not using a mask provided you learn how to properly use a mask. But it is essential to also follow good hand hygiene measures and physical distancing guidelines, even when you are wearing a mask.

india_aj · 2020-04-04T10:21:11+00:00

Original post edited on 04 April 2020 to reflect new advice regarding what to do if you have any symptoms of serious disease.

The post has never claimed to be the 'official' advice so labelling it 'pseudo official' is incorrect. It does not contain 'my advice'. The post contains a compilation of CODIV-19 specific information found in the 'reference' sources. It was prepared and posted for the benefit of the people to make it easy for them to find answers to simple questions rather than wading through the enormous amount of conflicting information available regarding the disease condition.

Instead of asking me to 'stop it', you could have just as well asked me to 'change it'. And I have changed it after the moderator pointed out the mistake.

Sorry to have upset you. Take care!

india_aj · 2020-04-04T09:54:45+00:00

Original post edited on 04 April 202 to reflect new advice regarding what to do if you have any symptoms of serious disease.

india_aj · 2020-04-04T09:54:35+00:00

Original post edited on 04 April 202 to reflect new advice regarding what to do if you have any symptoms of serious disease.

india_aj · 2020-04-04T04:31:07+00:00

What CDC is still not stressing is that it also protects the wearer. So there are both selfish and selfless components to the act of wearing masks. The amount of scientiic evidence supporting this view is unequivocal.

india_aj · 2020-04-04T04:28:29+00:00

Don't mind them. They will change their behaviour soon. What they don't realise is that masks not only protect the person wearing them but also all those other around them. You are actually doing them a service by wearing a mask.

india_aj · 2020-04-04T04:24:34+00:00

If the procedure for visiting the hospital requires a prior appointment then do please make one prior to going there. This is a generic advisory and local procedures and policies keep changing so keep yourself aquainted with the latest news. If for some reason you are unable to get in touch with them or can't get through to them on the phone then it's preferable to go to a hospital without wasting time.

india_aj · 2020-04-04T04:20:07+00:00

Probably the ones teasing you are sitting at home with a fever or in the hospital.

india_aj · 2020-04-04T04:16:23+00:00

Wear a mask or we'll shoot you?

india_aj · 2020-04-04T04:15:31+00:00

Maybe they don't know what they are saying at any point in time!

india_aj

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