Because this is a model, it’s inaccurate.
Being a simple one makes it even worse.
And it doesn’t apply for huge swathes of communities out there.
But still, in an age where so many communities are online, this might be helpful sometimes.
Let’s get to categorising:
(A) Bound by Values
Imagine the folks who’d attend, say, a freedom rally. You’d have all sorts of people there – political activists, students, refugees from dictatorships, religious leaders, community leaders, religious leaders, philosophers, academics, businessmen…
It’s inclusive and diverse.
They might not agree on much.
In fact, many of them might despise each other.
They’re not here to pick flowers, though. They’re here to fight together for what’s right.
(B) Bound by Values + Opinions
Here, the group seeks to exclude people. It’s not enough to value the same things anymore – you also have to agree on the best approaches.
A group like this might want to alleviate homelessness through expanded social services. If you want to alleviate homelessness through the promotion of job opportunities for them, you’re in the wrong group.
A community like this is useful for getting things done. When you agree on the Why and the What, all that’s left is the How.
(C) Bound by Values + Opinions + Reasons for the Opinions
This isn’t a community, it’s an echo chamber where rationality goes to die.
You see this play out in bad religious forums and typical woke discussion boards. Any dissenting voice on any topic is considered a vicious attack.
It’s not enough to agree. In groups like this, you have to agree with the Approved Opinions for the Approved Reasons. If you, say, think that woke ideology is good because it’s good for the economy, prepare to be roasted. These people will react as though you kicked a puppy if you agree with them wrong.
Why am I waffling on about this?
It’s a useful framework for a few reasons.
One, you’re almost always better off avoiding any (C) groups – unless you’re a manure stirrer who likes to add a little chaos.
Two, critics will accuse a (B) or even an (A) group of being a (C) group. “They wouldn’t let me join, just because I oppose everything they stand for! What a bunch of small-minded fascists!”
Three, so I can tell you that antipater.page is type (A).
You might be an atheist or a Christian.
You might value tradition or progress.
I don’t know if you’re old or young, single or married, childless or a father, gay or straight…
If you’re here, then you’re a man who gets it. You get that you have a duty to your ancestors and the next generation to make the world better.
You get that life is a battle, so you might as well fight evil adversaries.
Life is short so do the most good you can.
Part of that means doing good works.
Part of it means improving, every day.
No matter what, if you’re here then you’re the sort of person who appreciates creativity.
You know the power of thinking in different ways.
Now, rethink what creativity is and how to do it: