5 of 13

Write now Article Tools

ETHICAL PERSUASION: THE NEW MEEKNESS

*The struggle of humanity toward democracy can be compared to the struggle of individual human beings toward their own spiritual maturity: We know deep within that our well-being and happiness depend on intimacy, fairness, and communion with each other, but the temptation to react to life's daily difficulties with blame, self-defensiveness, and power-grabbing seems irresistible. It is difficult to imagine the whole human race evolving toward a peaceful and equitable future if we cannot feel ourselves growing more respectful, understanding, caring, and fair in our everyday relationships.*

Tom Rusk, *The Power of Ethical Persuasion*

Not so many years ago, meekness was a survival skill. In the workplace, in the schoolroom and in the home, there was a kicking order which had to be strictly observed. If someone of inferior status chose to challenge authority, it was a sacred duty to convince that individual of his superior's divine right to power. Abuses of power were tolerated because everyone took for granted that rebellion was bad. If the kicking order was destabilized, the very foundations of civilization would crumble.

Low-status individuals tended to become master manipulators, overtly humble and meek, yet often wielding great power. Some preferred their seemingly inferior status because they could not be held accountable for the results of their scheming. If things worked out, they could preen; if not, they could shake their heads disapprovingly and disavow any connection with the decision-making. Many would-be leaders have been prodded out onto a limb by such people, only to hear the ominous sound of sawing behind them when they are at their most vulnerable.

According to the Concise Oxford Dictionary, the word "meek" comes from an Old Norse word meaning "soft" or "gentle", and means "piously humble and submissive; submitting tamely to injury." In other words, a door mat. But what about that adverb "piously"? That suggests the possibility of hidden strength - strength of refusing to use one's full powers for philosophical or ethical reason. The practitioners of passive resistance in the Sixties could be called meek - their tame submission was for a higher purpose, and won victories that violence could not.

I grew up accepting the premise of a hierarchical power structure, and adhered to it (albeit not always comfortably) in the classroom, both as a student and a teacher. When I got married, I faced a new challenge: partnership.

• 1
• 2
• 3
• next page >>

Add your voice

Know something about Resolving differences for better personal relations?
We want to hear your view. Write now!