BRYCE ON SOCIETY
– People who question the status quo are often under attack.
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There are those people who avoid disrupting the status quo at all costs. You know the type; they are politically correct to the point where they hide their head in the sand so they may not be noticed and fear any form of criticism. They may have an opinion, but they dare not speak it openly. The media counts on such people with empty minds as they can be easily shaped and manipulated.
Then there are others who are magnets of controversy. They are not afraid to say what is on their mind, right or wrong, regardless of the consequences. I tend to believe I fall into this category. My numerous articles on business, politics, and life’s passing parade has earned me the ire of people on more than one occasion. You may not always agree with a position I take, but at least you know where I stand on an issue. While others are content being “Yes Men,” I tend to point out when the emperor has no clothes. Such a style in writing is either appreciated for its candor, or despised by the staunch advocates of the status quo. It certainly does not endear me to everyone, but that is not my intention either. Rather, I am endeavoring to stimulate thought.
Winston Churchill deplored “Yes Men,” as do I. Mental gymnastics was important to Churchill. If you had an opposing opinion, he wanted you to stand your ground and defend your position as opposed to acquiescing. Such was his path to enlightenment. I tend to agree. Over the years, I have been fortunate to participate in numerous arguments, all aimed at seeking the truth. In an industry as young as Information Technology is, such discourse is vital. Unfortunately, too many people prefer going on automatic as opposed to engaging their brains. I have no time for such unthinking cabbages and pity their existence. However, some are caring and thoughtful, but lack the means to articulate suitable words. Consequentially, they tend to bite their tongues and avoid the limelight. What a shame.
Magnets of controversy are people who question the status quo in order to improve it. It’s an area staunchly guarded by the ignorant and unthinking, people who will zealously guard against any change. Some people are jealous of the attention such magnets receive and criticize them, more to discredit them as opposed to offering a refutation. While some people may disagree with me venomously, I do not take them to task as I refuse to lower myself to their level.
Our corporate logo since our inception has been, “Software for the finest computer – the Mind.” In the end, we are challenging people to use their intellect and question things that have either been taken for granted or to consider a new perspective. There may be good and valid reasons for maintaining the status quo, then again it might be time for a change. Either way, we should be allowed to argue our position. Such is my job as a magnet of controversy.
Keep the Faith!
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Tim Bryce is a writer and the Managing Director of M&JB Investment Company (M&JB) of Palm Harbor, Florida and has over 30 years of experience in the management consulting field. He can be reached at [email protected]
For Tim’s columns, see:
timbryce.com
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Copyright © 2013 by Tim Bryce. All rights reserved.
NEXT UP: WHAT ARE YOU KEEPING THAT FOR? – Good question. Perhaps it is time to clean house and eliminate the flotsam and jetsam.
Listen to Tim on WJTN-AM (News Talk 1240) “The Town Square” with host John Siggins (Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, 12:30-3:00pm ET), and KGAB-AM 650 “The Morning Zone” with host Dave Chaffin (weekdays. 6:00-10:00am MST).
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