Strategic philanthropy is a measured success. It has done immeasurable harm, but that is partially offset by small gains in what can be measured. On balance we are better off with uncultured barbarians imposing their methods on all sectors.
I am trying to write a contemporary defense of logical positivism, as applied to the social sector, in the hope of revitalizing my downard spiralling career. I am finding, though, that I pass out drunk before I can construct a convincing argument. Sober I just sit and stare at the blank screen in despair. We measure every student every year and now our society is run by people who have no moral or political tradition beyond pragmatism and expediency. They have been measured and managed for compliance with authority, now they assert it and call it leadership. It is only 10:20 am. Too early to drink. Maybe I will try meditation.
Good morning, Phil,
Though we are apt to proffer different evidence to support the same conclusion, I agree that "our society is run by people who have no moral or political tradition beyond pragmatism and expediency." Lines from Yeats - "The blood-dimmed tide is loosed, and everywhere/The ceremony of innocence is drowned/The best lack all conviction, while the worst/Are full of passionate intensity."
If you'll excuse me from indulging in a kind of relativism - spirit-related if not spiritual - you may wish to consider that, while it's 10:20 a.m. where you are, it's 4:20 p.m. in Paris, an appropriate time for a modestly priced champagne.
With gratitude for our friendship,
Laurie
Posted by: Laurie Morrow | July 23, 2011 at 11:31 AM
You mean it is not the same time all over the world? How can that be? Well as long as it after 5 pm in Paris, I can be forgiven for making a toast to Ubu the King, Philanthropist at Large.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ubu_Roi
Posted by: Phil Cubeta | July 23, 2011 at 02:18 PM
Are you, by the way, the Laurie Morrow at Heritage? In any case, welcome and thank you for the comment.
Posted by: Phil Cubeta | July 23, 2011 at 02:24 PM