---- Copious Thoughts - From Clayboyn's Coffee and Philosophy show Ep. 50 ----

A very big thank you to all who joined us for @clayboyn 's Coffee and Philosophy. on the much loved MSP Waves and P.A.L Discord Network. This was the the 50th episode and the recording can be found here: Coffee and Philosophy Ep. 50.

Well i must say it was one of the best shows i have been part of to date. There was a considerable amount of hoopla leading up to the show based on an article i had written the week before which had been grossly misinterpreted by some people, but once the rag tag team of philosophers/scientists got a firm grip on the material there was no way to escape the super dooper analytical force of our powers combined!!! The roster of super friends included @clayboyn, @isaria, @juliakponsford and myself.

Diving right into the thick of it, we discussed a number of group dynamics between the sexes, races, etc. and how they form a construct aptly names 'social identity theory'. How being part of ANY group affects our sense of being and the bonds between the associated 'in groups' and the 'out groups'.

We discussed the role of media in the perpetuation of conflict between groups for monetary gain and the good ole profit margin at the expense of innocent individuals just trying to get by in life. This was 'likened' to examples identified within war, where a third party orchestrates conflict and encourages two separate groups to beat each other with sticks.... and that is great for the person selling the sticks.

As we moseyed on down the road we touched on sources of information and the difficulty of being able to identify solid data untarnished. With the basis of how 'Primary', 'Secondary' and 'General' sources are defined by the sciences, this makes deciphering data considerably more simple when interacting with what media (and varied other outlets) put out into the world.

The role of 'Cognitive Dissonance' within the equation was identified and explored. The understanding that the discomfort of holding two opposing thoughts can be detrimental to a persons psyche. This can translate into a feeling of physical harm being done by the person presenting the conflicting thought, and the response can be equally aggressive due to this sensation.

Beyond this, we discussed some of the internal workings/thoughts of the 'Factions' (@staceyjean loved the use of this word :P) rising to war with each other, MRA (mens rights activists), Feminazis (radical feminists), MGTOW (men go their own way), TERF's(trans exclusionary radical feminists) are but a few within the battle of the sexes/gender wars.

However, extrapolation places the same or similar constructs in any group conflict regardless of the foundational motivation of the groups themselves. Again referring to 'social identity theory' , the "in groups" positive traits are exaggerated, while the "out groups" negative traits are exaggerated. incidentally, these traits, both positive and negative, can be completely fabricated to reinforce the agenda. Ultimately, what we are left with is an understanding of the "birth" of the "isms" and "ists" (ie racism, sexist, etc.), and the radical moments which create and feed on them.

As the show came to an end we expressed what we each believe to be good practice when attempting to become more aware of the self. What each of us have utilized as tools for reflection when we want/need to take a "step back" from the daily grind of life. The basic concept s put forward were , meditation on"the self", exploring arts/music etc., live life to the fullest for one week, and exploration of consciousness.

And in closing..... we made all made a bunch of crazy beat box noises.

---

---

All in all a pretty fantastic conversation based in logic and the understanding of particular constructs. The meeting of minds to discuss, what some may consider, difficult topics, to learn about the world around us and grow as individuals. THIS is how progresses is made and THIS is how we can influence positive change in the world.

Being among such an amazing group of people who are able to have constructive conversations I am reminded of the Artistotle quote which states "it is the mark of an educated mind to be able to entertain a thought without accepting it". However, i myself would argue that it is the mark of an AWAKENED mind to be able to entertain a thought without accepting it.

Aristotle