The Going Direct Paradigm Spring 2024 Series

My essay "Why are we here?" is a thought-provoking exploration prompted by David Malone's documentary series,of the same name. The essay delves into the four films in the series, namely "Meaning Seeking Beings," "The Reality of Ideas," "The Animal Within," and "The Moral Compass." It also delves into the complexities of existence, the pursuit of knowledge, and the interplay between science, philosophy, and ethics. Sometimes one can not but reflect on the fundamental question of human existence and the quest for meaning. We must express a genuine curiosity about the purpose of life and the nature of our existence. It is unavoidable to also touch upon the limitations of human understanding and the vastness of the unknown, forcing one into acknowledging that universals escape our imagination and perception. The interplay between science and philosophy poses questions of whether the scientific method or art is more effective in communicating the essence of the unknown or immeasurable. If one contemplates the coexistence of materialism and idealism, it can be helpful to reject the notion that they are mutually exclusive and advocate for a broader perspective that transcends traditional dichotomies. Ethical considerations in both scientific and religious inquiries highlight the importance of ethical frameworks in shaping human behavior and decision-making, emphasizing the pursuit of virtue for the general well-being of society. The role of tradition and authority in shaping knowledge systems draws on historical and philosophical perspectives to underscore the complex interplay between tradition, belief, and inquiry. philosophical thinkers, such as Michel Foucault, Neal Donald Walsh, and C.S. Pierce, enrich our arguments and provide a comprehensive examination of epistemological and ethical considerations. The impact of urbanization on evolution and ecosystem function, linking scientific inquiry to broader societal implications underscores the need for humility and context in scientific education. Recent elite hubris should serve as a caution against propagandistic approaches in both science and religion. A pause for profound reflection on the complexities of human existence, the pursuit of knowledge, and the ethical considerations can underpin both scientific and religious inquiries. I would encourage readers to embrace a holistic perspective that transcends traditional boundaries, fostering a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness between science, philosophy, ethics, and human experience.

First printed for the family in 1985, I remember my sister Suzanne typing early drafts which were sent back and forth from Oxfordshire to Talbot Green. My Cousin Russel mentioned one evening when we met for a drink in Clifton Village Bristol in summer 2022 that he had a copy of Grampy's book. I read a chapter aloud later that evening, and was transported back to long evenings sat at the dining table with Nanny listening to the Television and Grampy and Dad chatting away with a glass of Worthington's pale ale, from the ration still sent every month from the brewery. Written 40 years ago now I wonder what Grampy would make of the present discontents. I am sure he and those of his generation including my maternal grandfather Llewellyn Harrison would be horrified that having nuetralised the worse excesses of one "Owning Class" it would appear that the country is now in the grip of an Owning Class much worse than their forebears. I thought I should re typeset and include Grampy's memoir as part of the collection of the Going Direct Spring 2024 trilogy. 'A thousand lie beneath the sky, They rot beneath the sun, And we who live shall not forgive This deed your hand hath done!' Baards of Wales. Janos Arany

This is part One of a Trilogy of poems the other two appear at the end of The Conquest of Dough. This original collection was published in 2016 and the Spring of 2024 has seen a lot of water flow under the bridge. I have also re published my Grandfathers memoir as part of this series for the Going Direct Spring of 2024. 13 years on from penning Baards of Wales, I wonder what Grampy would make of the planned theft of the clauses of the Social Contract he and his comrades fought to secure.