Each year, the World Question Center, part of edge.org, presents an annual question to ponder. This year, over 100 invited scholars responded with original essays in reply to the question for 2006: "What’s your dangerous idea?"
The history of science is replete with discoveries that were considered socially, morally, or emotionally dangerous in their time; the Copernican and Darwinian revolutions are the most obvious. What is your dangerous idea? An idea you think about (not necessarily one you originated) that is dangerous not because it is assumed to be false, but because it might be true?
The invited responses are fascinating, and mostly on topics that are beyond my daily repertoire: always good to read beyond the confines of your usual world.
And, it’s a great question to consider for all of us wanting to make a difference: what is your dangerous idea, the one that is socially, morally or emotionally dangerous in our time?
How can 2006 be your year of the "dangerous idea"?
Before specializing as a professional coach in 2004, I spent more than a decade in leadership, management and program development for state and local government and non-profit organizations. Now I get to help leaders and teams have more clarity and ability to stand up for what's important in their work and in their organizations. Working with me, leaders and teams find more meaning and purpose, feel happier and more confident, navigate change and conflict, and work together better.
I don’t have so much of a dangerous idea, but a small plan to put into action. Conscious living can help us feel as though we are making a difference. Today I signed up to have my electric company use renewable resources for my power. It will cost me an extra 1.1 cents per kilowatt hour usage (or something like that). Basically it’s about 3 to 7 dollars more per month.
As soon as signed up, I thought of you and how making even a smallest difference can affect our happiness so. I feel a little bit more connected now. Do you know what I mean?
It seems that living consciously is almost a dangerous idea by itself. I’m vegan (as of this year) and was a long time vegetarian. Daring to eat and live differently is dangerous because it stirs up those who go through life on auto-pilot. Yes, it may not be revolutionary, but I feel I’m making a difference through the execution of my personal choices.
What do you think? Can personal choices be dangerous ideas?
Kayll:
Great good for thought – thanks for sharing here!
To me, living and taking actions that line up with our values – in both our personal or professional lives – is a critical part of what making a difference is about.
However we connect and honor our values – for you, signing up to use renewable energy or being a vegan – can most definitely be a bold and radical act!
My dangerous idea is that we’re all almost completely resonsible for the quality of experience we have in our daily lives. Everyone, but everyone, wants to blame someone else for the state they’re in, but the minute we take responsibility, the world opens up, and happiness moves toward us. I just discovered this site, and I’m excited about the links, especially. I didn’t know those organizations and blogs were out there. And some of your book authors are my favorites.
Bianca,
Thanks for your wise and generous words! I hope you’ll keep visiting and sharing your thoughts!
Hanna