Hi folks.
So, I guess what happens to me with this kind of information/disinformation
is that I find it is very hard, and very time consuming, to actually figure
out what is right and wrong unless one is already 'steeped' in the
network/field.
In other words, many of us are either new at this, just interested in
learning more, a bit awed or timid.
The debates, petitions, etc are fast paced, dense, and deep. There is little
time to step back and weigh information, draw conclusions, and question.
Even the experts don't always agree.

I think this is exactly where a group like Bee-L is important, and
influential. Those of you who have done this for a long time, and understand
the science and the changes in science well, have the advantage of speaking
the 'language'. Those of us who are new at it are facing a much steeper
learning curve.

It is not that we wish to be ignorant, or manipulated, or misinformed. We
just don't have the depth of experience you do. It is like learning how to
walk, or speak a new language, or anything else one is not familiar with.

It is possible that people may be too busy to have a 'spirit of inquiry'. Or
that they may be too lazy. On the other hand, perhaps it is also true that
they are just overwhelmed with the vast amount of information and don't know
who or what to believe.

If I may suggest, it is important for those of you who are more expert in
this field to
a) guide with tolerance and patience
b) speak in terms that the layperson can understand and be part of
c) continue to educate others and lead by example
d) encourage questions, even if they sound 'uneducated' to you
e) allow people to make mistakes and help them learn without making them
feel inadequate

If you give up and are silent vis a vis the public, then surely there is no
chance for the right information to percolate out.

I am sure that I have made mistakes inadvertently, believing that I was
doing the right thing when I really did not have all the facts. But in
truth, I did not know I did not have the facts, and neither did most other
'experts' I consulted.
One example: I was a strong proponent of bottled water until I started
researching what exactly went into bottled water...wouldn't touch it now
except in the most unusual of circumstances. And yet, look at how many
people around the world think they are doing the right thing by drinking and
supporting bottled water production. These folks still believe it is pure,
healthy, and preferable to tap, and would happily sign a petition to provide
bottled water to x.y.z.

If something isn't right, tell the world. Take the time to write op-eds, go
on local radio shows, and talk to the general public. Don't keep it in the
small confines of those who already know. That way, we can all learn and
make good choices.

Thanks for your insights.

Cheers.
Andrea


-- 
"When the well runs dry, we learn the worth of water" - Benjamin Franklin

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