Sometimes absence can be more effective than presence. In this case the absence of initiatory force is more formidable than the mere presence of force. The mere presence of force or the initiation of the use of force changes nothing. The absence of initiatory force, however, can
change everything — for the better. Unearned and usurped power and control will not only be unlawful; they will become impossible. Opportunities to create and produce values will be unlimited.
William,
This reminds me a bit of Steven Segal and his use of aikido – essentially the martial art of redirecting the initiatory force of another person against that person – using minimal force of his own in doing so. I don’t know a whole lot about the martial arts in general, but certainly this one seems especially geared to self-defense and protection only – and that, of course, is what the prime law of no initiatory force is all about. You seem to understand that quite well. When you say: “nothing”, I hear “any change occuring is generally nothing of value and often harmful” — and I agree.
I like the way you’ve taken this to the group level. At the individual level, skirmishes between people are bound to occur and dealt with after-the-fact; however, as the number of people involved increases, I believe as you do that initiatory force will be rendered virtually impossible and nonexistent as you point out. Besides, who wants to suck on a lemon when you can have a mango instead?
I love to hear how many others with whom you’ve shared this insight.
Loren
The only time absence is appropriate when a conscious individual has a terminal disease, and no way out of slavery. With consciousness interdicted absence is of no use. Absence only exist when consciousness is in existence otherwise its not observed.
Force directed from an individual is only approriate in self-defense other than this exception, leads to destruction; is of no value. It becomes an opposite. No point.
Nature turns the pressure on everyday to keep consciousness moving forward. Force in this way is of value.