[MD] Collective intelligence

[Ham Priday]

 [Ron]:
> MOQ stops at dynamic quality, whereas Essentialism goes
> one step further and describes the "ultimate value set" of
> undivided source with nothingness, if I'm not mistaken.

I don't particularly like "ultimate value set" as a euphemism for Essence, 
since absolute Oneness is not a "set" of anything.  But, yes, generally 
speaking, I do think I've gone that extra step missing in Pirsig's 
metaphysics.  I do not see Quality (pure or differentiated) as either 
primary to existence or having the potential to create.

> Thank you for correcting me on your view, one big question
> for you if you do not mind my asking,
> Does your ontology include the concept of what is commonly
> referred to as the "soul" or spirit?
> If so, what is it's relation with Essence?

I like "big questions", even when I can't properly answer them.  This is 
such an example.

"Soul" and "spirit" have been part of our language since the beginning of 
civilization, while their precise meanings have been hi-jacked by religion, 
mysticism, and psychology.  I do believe that man has an innate "spiritual" 
quest, by which I mean that he is instinctively fascinated by "the unknown". 
I also believe any philosophy that fails to address this quest is 
inadequate.

As to whether human beings individually possess a "spirit" or "soul", I 
prefer the term "psyche" because it connotes the mental or "psychic" essence 
of proprietary awareness, apart from its objective contents.  If pressed for 
an answer, I would probably define "soul" as the valuistic essence of 
mankind, which in the purest sense is Essence itself.

I realize the fuzziness of these definitions, but the terms "soul" and 
"spirit" are rudiments of an anthropomorphic God which is not a precept of 
Essentialism.  They have spiritual significance only insofar as they express 
man's desire to transcend existence.  But all desiring is driven by man's 
sense of value.  And that is paramount in my philosophy.

Thanks, Ron.

Essentially yours,
Ham