Hi Martin,
Ecologically speaking, nothing ever is free or independent, but I think we have done pretty well with human evolution so far. We don't need great steps, we just need to avoid over-stepping our own capacities, and to accept that the universe does not revolve around us.
I think the big paradox for human existence is that we think we have free, independent minds for thinking (and it can seem that way at times) but even the freedom to think is not guaranteed. Practical realities come in the way, at every moment. Cold winters, food supplies, human relations, etc.
Speaking of which, I should get back to cleaning the floors of our apartment before my wife comes home, so the whole family can enjoy a long-weekend (public holiday) with less anxiety.
Cheers, P.
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Peter J. Matthews, Chief Admin.,
The Research Cooperative,
Auckland & Kyoto.
Contact: researchcooperative [at] gmail [dot] com