In the BBC straight edge doc, they talk about Straight Edge as a movement. They have grandiose images of “clear headed guys (and girls) in the streets fighting for social change.” I know this is hyperbole, but not necessarily too far-fetched. The alcohol and tobacco industries are MASSIVE. I think we can all agree that they are inherently evil. I guess this is what I’m trying to get at:
Do you find there are revolutionary aspects of Straight Edge?
Is (can) Straight Edge (become) a legitimate political/social movement?
Speaking sober words in a time like this is revolutionary.
I don’t really think I can get into depth on that topic on this board – but I have dedicated the past three years of my life, and many more to come, on this topic. I believe that the only way to bring about any real change is by restructuring and redesigning the schools. The current generation cannot be salvaged but they can be replaced by shining examples of the next. In order to bring about this transformation, education must be fundamentally reformed. Unfortunately it seems that the only way to do this is to replace the social architects, and my current dilemma is attempting to figure out how to accomplish this.
It seems impossible to call upon popular support for a revolution, as the American people seem irrevocably locked in torpor, apathy and cowardice. Every method I have tried has failed, save the heroic example. Heroic examples, however, are rarely demonstrable, and only seem to effect individuals. This is important for establishing officers in a movement, but it does not seem to have the widespread social impact one would hope for.
Who are the social architects? media conglomerates? politicians? teachers? The Big 3 (buffet, murdoch, gates)?
Can you give a heroic example?
Government heads. They must be replaced. Once you are in control of the army you can expel the others you speak of, if they do not act justly.
Heroic examples simply means living well in hopes of inspiring people to live the same. Public displays of courage, temperance, prudence, justice. Magnanimity. A lofty spirit. A wellspring of conviction and deathlessness. Incorruptibility. Frugality and austerity. Never asking for yourself but sustaining others. To become more than a man. To dedicate yourself to an ideal, not your own desires. To never compromise your character, in the face of any circumstance. To be like the type of people you hear about who fill your chest with fire, love and awe. Cato (who would come to inspire the American revolution through Addison’s play of the same name) is the best example, but there are modern examples as well. James Stockdale. Richard Winters (yes, the one from Band of Brothers). To be a exemplary man, to be what nature requires.