[MD] A PROPOSAL TO ADDRESS "THE POINT"

[Squonkonguitar at aol.com]

The thorn in your sides.
Sorry folks, but I'm not letting this drop just  yet.
Not until people have addressed Arlo's "editorial" points at  least.

I'm going to re-state the point within the point.

Does  anyone believe that academic qualification or any hierarchical
approval  carries any "authority" in determining any kind of group
concensus on  documenting the MoQ for use beyond this discussion group?
 
Mark: 10-10-06: Hello Ian.
I think you may be conflating two modes of authority here:
A. Academic authority.
B. The Code of Art.
1. I don't think Mr. Pirsig's authority in matters MoQ rest on academic  
qualifications.
The MoQ challenges conventional academia.
A and B are not mutually exclusive - B may coincide with, or transform  A.
B is more moral.
2. Any hierarchic regarding the MoQ serves the Code of Art.
It is a disturbing problem when an individual attains academic  qualification 
but does not serve the Code of Art.
Lying, for example, is very low quality, and dissipates authority, and  
reveals a sham by my above definitions.
Does this clarify things Ian?

Anyone contemplating saying Yes,  should consider their justifications
carefully, and think on lessons from  past mistakes.
 
Mark: 10-10-06: I hope we are in a phase transition between old academia  and 
new academia. The last thing we want is people playing at Quality when they  
can't demonstrate they recognise shit from shinola.

Anyone saying No,  should consider whether the only alternative is a
total free for all, or  whether there are "limits to that freedom" -
checks and balances. (See Arlo's  thoughts.)
 
Mark: 10-10-06: This is not a polar argument - there are alternatives we  may 
contemplate.
A free for all is a low quality option.
Regarding freedom:
If excellence is the best, and if we all wish for the best, then do we  
choose the best or are we directed by the best?
It seems to me we can't help choosing the best, and so in that sense we  
don't have to worry about freedom. Freedom chooses us.
Those following the Code of Art will serve as examples for others without  
having to rely on qualifications. I think qualifications can enhance those  
following the Code of Art - i think the Code of Art enhances  qualifications.
A block to this are egocentric individuals who constantly draw attention  
away from Quality and toward themselves.

Anyone who believes my motives  are anything other than pricking
consciences for the good of making progress  with the MoQ, see me
behind the bike-sheds after school  :-)

Regards
Ian
 
Mark: 10-10-06: I don't know what you mean by this Ian. I've not been  
listening in to this contretemps, if indeed it is a contretemps. But as you  decided 
to restate your position i felt i could begin from this post?
Love,
Mark