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The Necessity of Hierarchies and Leaders

by bil
Mon Sep 24th, 2007 at 06:48:34 AM EST

I am presently reading a book by James C. Scott: Domination and the Arts of Resistance. Scott discusses, among other things, the frequency of revolts, insubordinations, and general misbehaviour on the part of dominated groups.  Even in the absence of any clear alternatives to the regime under which these groups exist. This prompted me to think about our ideas of authoritarian and hierarchical structures. A dominant idea in our society is that such structures are necessary and natural. But if this is so why do so many rebel against these types of systems? Even in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds. It would almost seem as if human beings are naturally free and egalitarian by nature and resent any infringement on this natural state. But we know that can't be right.

Promoted, with a format edit - In Wales

Read more... (42 comments, 286 words in story)

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