Progress

A rather interesting discussion on the topic of progress came up recently during a Evolution and Diffusion Theory lecture recently on just what it is. Many definitions were offered, but none seem to be quite satisfactory after being examined from a neutral standpoint. The ideals of civilisation, cities, technology, industry, and such, are they really what makes (or breaks) progress? Or are they in fact just means of enslaving ourselves to a system that hinders it.

Incidentally this particular vein of thought played out on my mind during the pre-KKN survey trip to Petungkriyono over the last weekend. As "backward", isolated, and simple as their lives may be in remote mountain villages, as a people they are no less "civilised" as the city folk, and in more ways than one, I would even dare say much more so in terms of manners and hospitality.

Even though it was but a short survey trip, it has given me plenty to think about in terms of life and what one really wants out from it. The actual 7 week stint there would give me even more time to think about those things...