replying also to LO8364
Marianne proposes as worldwide ideals the basic elements of US civil
society-- equality, liberty, pursuit of happiness. These are good
candidates because they continue to be inspiring and have been tested.
I would add democratic deliberation as the process that allows such a
society to maintain cohesion. LO seems to carry forward this aspect of
18th century political thought, driving it into all institutions.
I would like help on a consulting problem that puts all this into play.
Mount Vernon, George Washington's house, is trying to reinvent itself. It
recognizes that G. Washington is potentially very important in political
renewal. It's answer, however, is limited to adding an orientation center
that does a biography of Washington (one that children can mostly
understand) and a museum for 18th century furnishings. They will need to
raise a lot of money. I get the feeling that checks will flow more easily
if there are programs that USE Washington's legacy to give people what
they need today: community, involvement, ideals. While Washington is (or
was) a worldwide figure, it is significant to note that the current donors
are very local.
I raise this concrete problem because it is fine to talk about ideals, but
it is tricky to create situations where they come to life. Here's an
opportunity for all you creative types. I'll pass on any responses to the
client.
--Kent Myers kent.myers@lmco.com Alexandria, VA
Learning-org -- An Internet Dialog on Learning Organizations For info: <rkarash@karash.com> -or- <http://world.std.com/~lo/>