DEFINITION DILUTION

I remember when one of our leaders said something like, “I can’t define pornography, but I know it when I see it.” The definition of “polymath” may be in the same category. Especially in these days of dilution of meanings! It seems to me that it is the tenor of the times to dilute the meaning of lots of things.

For example, take patriotism. What is that anyway? How do you define it?

All of our “leaders,” anywhere on the political spectrum, speak loudly about “patriotism,” “our constitution” (that Holy Grail), “democracy,” and the like. Apparently we can spin those things any way we desire. Especially since the definition of those terms is really difficult. Difficult, that is, to come up with meanings that satisfy all persons at all points on the political spectrum. So what to do?

Must have been a polymath that decided to leave it up to the eye and ear and mind of the reader, the listener, and the voter. And that is where the “dilution” comes in: We can, in effect, define these things any way we want to. And we do!

You know, I have, as have many people, tried to understand what makes a “great civilization” decline. They all have throughout our history – including, I’m finding, in China’s history, as well. As best possible I once read a summarized version of “The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire.” Didn’t help me enough, but I think that is because I don’t know enough.

But I am learning – for what good that can do at my late stage. The “race” in my case is to learn more than I forget, to say nothing of my short life expectancy. But I find that these things do not make much difference so long as one truly enjoys learning. (I call it a kind of intellectual orgasm.) I am fast getting to the point where I can read a book, and then start the same book again, and think I am reading something new! (Oh well.)

But, back to the “decline.” Is the American Civilization doing that right now? I’m afraid that it is, but then I will not live long enough to see it. (I hope.) This country, with its brand of understanding “individual freedom,” used to be the beacon for the world. Is it still? President Obama says so, so it must be true. (Sigh of relief.)

Would that I could believe it!

What was my friend’s name, you ask? As I wrote in a previous blog: I’m so forgetful! But I think it was something like “Hobbs” or “Lucy.”

Think I’ll ask Wiley Miller, if I can get his address, that is.

DBT