Recently I've been struggling with the question... at which point does realizing the truth about society and its structure become a disadvantage to the individual rather then an advantage?
On one hand being extremely disillusioned by societies 'big lies' is going to be a disadvantage in that you may fall into traps, dogma, and sacraficing your self worth for a greater good.
But on the other hand being over aware of 'big lies' can, for lack of a better way of explaining, turn the matrix against you. In evading brainwashing you may become isolated socially, depressed, or held back career wise.
This is just a starting off point, but what do others think? Do you bluntly attack what you disagree with, try to forget the evils of society, or save face publicly well maintaining your views among a small group of those in the know?
NEVER. I believe it is the greatest gift i could have
PhilipK: This is just a starting off point, but what do others think? Do you bluntly attack what you disagree with, try to forget the evils of society, or save face publicly well maintaining your views among a small group of those in the know? The majority of people would choose the blue pill, and not many could manage taking the red one. Everyone should know themselves, their own limits, and stop going deeper if the pressure becomes unbearable. Certain levels of strength, self-knowledge, and philosophical grounding are necessary for the red pill to be beneficial for the individual who's taking it. One should FIRST strive to get to a state in which they can benefit from ANY extra knowledge. In a state whereby striving for knowldge and understanding becomes one's ultimate end, the choice between the red (more knowledge) and blue (less knowledge) pill is non-existent. Easier said than done, but the trick is to learn how to use ANY extra knowledge to your own advantage. Personally, I wouldn't have it any other way. | Post Points: 20
@z1235 very good point. Without being in the state in which one can put the extra knowledge to use it can possibly lead to negative effects, thus why people naturally do not respond well to such truths.
Paranoia, depression, and disbelief are all emotions I have felt during my uncovering of several horrible truths.
I find the most unsettling aspects to do with the use of chemicals in food, water, and the enviornment for the purpose of shaping the psychology of society a whole. Avoiding food heavily laced with strange chemicals can be difficult. Not knowing the latest news or hollywood trends can leave one feeling out of the loop.
That is why I have found myself moving from the option of bluntly attacking to creating 'matrix persona' whlie consealing true philosophy and reasoning for a small inside group(which I feel some on this site are part of). I'm reminded of several popular academics/public figures like Alan Greenspan, who early on in their careers advocated very 'idealistic' positions.(Alan Greeenspan was once part of Ayn Rand's Collective, but would later take a positioin that some what flys in the face of the philosophy)
Where would these types of academics be if they never shifted from idealism to publicly displaying socialist ideas while concealing their true knowledge of the system?
The problem with the blue pill is that it's an illusion so reality is sometimes too strong for it. The red pill is natural.
Does anyone ever wish that they never discovered AE?
PhilipK:That is why I have found myself moving from the option of bluntly attacking to creating 'matrix persona' whlie consealing true philosophy and reasoning for a small inside group(which I feel some on this site are part of). I'm reminded of several popular academics/public figures like Alan Greenspan, who early on in their careers advocated very 'idealistic' positions.(Alan Greeenspan was once part of Ayn Rand's Collective, but would later take a positioin that some what flys in the face of the philosophy)
"Bluntly attacking" or completely selling out (like Greenspan has done) are not the only choices. Far from it. When you are at peace with who you are -- comfortable in your own skin -- it is possible to sail through life (1) without "attacking" anyone, (2) being consistent with your knowledge/beliefs, AND (3) using them to your own benefit. It's an elusive sweet-spot.
Once one makes the mistake of attaching his/her well-being to the devil's benevolence, then striking a deal with him becomes inevitable. Try not doing the former in the first place -- then the latter would never have a chance of becoming an issue. Though, as I said, this is easier said than done and only a few can pull it off.
@z1235 very ture... the life you describe in 3 points sounds fullfilling and in accordance with what I believe.
I'm just bitter I spend so much time trying to understand the world around me and a decietful system, but was decieved in my own personal life. My questioning in this thread was directly born out of my depression from personal events.