by The Madame X » Wed Aug 11, 2004 10:24 am
Terrific article Aeon!
Your points are consilely explored.
I'd like to share with those of you who may not have yet aquired a copy of V, by Sebatian Todd, Michelle Belanger, Layl Umbralux and myself, an excerpt on leadership.
Enjoy
Madame X
INNOVATION and LEADERSHIP
When an individual chooses to take on the role of a leader, starts a group, writes a book, does a performance, comes up with a popular idea, runs an event or contributes anything for the whole community…they become a leader, if only for a short while. They will no doubt have people who attack and criticize them; this is human nature and must be expected. This response usually stems from a difference in beliefs; but sometimes can be the result of jealousy or self-doubt on the part of the accuser. Not everything will work for everyone, but do not attack new ideas before trying them out, and respect the ones with the courage to do so. Innovation is a much needed element if we are to avoid stagnation; to attack and restrict it creates unneeded conflict around something that may be for the good of us all. Skepticism is good, as well as common sense and objectivity, but unrestrained attacks based on fear and jealousy only cause drama and infighting, which only weaken the Community as a whole. This behavior often occurs online where the anonymity and distance make people less inhibited and more likely to be aggressive and even cruel. It is important to be “self-moderating” in circumstances that may encourage this type of behavior.
Keep in mind that nothing would exist if, once upon a time, someone wasn’t bold enough to try their idea. This applies to everything around us. People will make mistakes, and hopefully learn from them; those who make the most mistakes, often end up learning the most, and having the most to offer the rest of us. Our innovators are our groundbreakers, the ones who with their passing leave the legacies we all treasure. We must respect them for all they have given us.