¶ … Niu Mountain" By Mengzi The mountain is clearly a metaphor for the mind. In the metaphor, the mountain and the mind are the same, and each can be groomed in a variety of ways. If nourished, the both the mountain and the mind virtually have no choice but to grow. However, as often the case, if these entities are cut down by axes, or possibly by denying education and/or critical thinking, the mountain will be bare and the mind will be empty. The empty state of mind is devoid of what makes the human species special and different from other forms of life. Our consciousness is what separates us from other forms of life and if we do not nourish it, to the extent it is enough to overcome the "axes" we experience in our lives, then we are no different than the other forms of lives, the irrational animals.

The author seems to believe that the natural state of the mountain is rich and full of vegetation. It is only as man takes to the axes that the natural state is disrupted. Therefore, I think that it is safe to assume that Mengzi believes that the natural state of humanity is basically good. However, these assumptions also depend on how the axes are viewed. If the axes are natural products of the mind and/or humanity, then the mowing down of the trees on the mountain with axes could also be construed as a natural phenomenon.

I agree with the metaphor and believe it to be an excellent representation of the state of humanity and the potential of the human species. Personally, I believe that history teaches that mankind has a wide range of different types of potential. Under the right conditions, people can be good and virtuous. Yet, movements such as illustrated by the Nazi movements in Germany illustrate that under certain conditions, even people that might otherwise be good, can also commit the most horrific acts.

I would certainly agree that some individuals...

However, diverse cultures have included diverse perspectives on what the core values of humanity are as well. Therefore, I think one might also speculate that diversity maybe a core value in and of itself.
Part 2: Greenspan

"Today, economic value is best symbolized by exceedingly complex, miniaturized integrated circuits and the ideas -- the software -- that utilize them. Most of what we currently perceive as value and wealth is intellectual and impalpable."

I really like this quote from Greenspan and I think it correctly sets the stage in what work will look like on forthcoming generations. Although many material needs will still need to be produced, more and more of the economy is taking on a more intangible nature.

"I do not deny that many appear to have succeeded in a material way by cutting corners and manipulating associates, both in their professional and in their personal lives. But material success is possible in this world and far more satisfying when it comes without exploiting others. The true measure of a career is to be able to be content, even proud, that you succeeded through your own endeavors without leaving a trail of casualties in your wake."

Greenspan's view represents a pretty individualistic perspective and this has been consistent throughout his career. It seems perfectly reasonable that individual, or personal ethics, in decision making is certainly important. However, at the same time, the problems that the next generation faces will likely not be met by simply by applying personal ethics. The next generation of problems, such of climate change and nuclear proliferation, will require collective action.

I guess my biggest point of contention…