Imagination

Human imagination is an evolutionary advantage and an evolutionary burden. Imagination is the seed of all innovation. Imagination is the root of much evil as well.

If I use my imagination for beauty, love and  socially responsible action, I support improvement in the human condition for myself and others. If I use my imagination for controlling, harming or greed, I demean my human condition and the human condition of others. 

In a computerized (virtual) world, imagination can often be confused with actualization. The glittering materialistic world of the computer display is seductive. I could begin to imagine that this is reality. I could begin to believe that all my Facebook friends are really my friends, for example. I could imagine that all the news feeds I read are representative of the full human reality on the ground. This would be delusional.

I have come to respect my imagination as a powerful tool for change in my life. However, I have also learned to balance my imaginings with research and scientific investigation before applying them to action. Living a life ruled by imagination without balance is treacherous. Learning to apply imagination to life's challenges is a priceless skill.