What does it take to become an activist? For some, it is a natural response to injustice. For others, it takes more than acknowledging a societal ill; they don’t act until they experience the injustice personally. In today’s world, we are all victims of injustice. Corporate corruption, government ineptitude, political lies, inequality, rude behavior, pollution, and human-induced climate change affect us daily.
The Supreme Court wiped out the rights fought for over the last sixty years. We lost the right to choose and the right to discuss injustice in the classroom. In the future, neither the FDA nor the EPA will be able to protect us from contaminated food and polluted air. Separation of church and state is on the chopping block by Christian Nationalists who want to control religious beliefs.
To maintain democracy by becoming an activist, it is essential to think positively. Those taking a stance do so with the hope and belief that a healthier planet and a more equal society are possible. Their concern for future generations and the broader culture is invigorating. They have a purpose that gets them up in the morning. There is a lot to do
Discrimination, gun violence, losing the right to decide about your health and well-being, and unfair employment practices send people into
hopelessness and despair. They disengage, which is one of the worst things they can do to help their situation. For some, these horrors are a wake-up call, providing a sense of urgency and meaningful connectedness. The tragedy fills them with responsibility and a feeling of power to effect change.
Activism is a duty requiring those who are strong to help those in need. Remember Maslow’s hierarchy? You can’t be expected to be socially active if you don’t have shelter, food, safety, security, and health. Since a large part of the population falls below the poverty line, they need our help.
Intelligence also plays a role in the responsibility people feel for society.
The normal curve distribution of IQ is a reminder that 16 percent of the population has an IQ lower than 85 percent. These individuals may be wonderful and loving but are less likely to be analytical and can be easily manipulated. Research shows that those with higher IQs tend to be adaptable and willing to explore different ways to problem solve. They are more open-minded, crave new experiences, are curious about the world, and are willing to learn more about how it works. Those with higher IQs usually recognize their limitations and look for answers through research and unique experiences. They are empathetic and skilled at managing and expressing emotions. yet despite these attributes, they need other factors to be successful. Success requires a desire to excel, prudence, forethought, willpower, and perseverance.
The road to changing people’s minds is long and can be discouraging. People working for social equality tend to have the personality traits mentioned above. They have higher IQs and are several rungs up on Maslow’s scale.
I feel that the lucky individuals gifted with these attributes have an obligation to help those who are less fortunate. That is why I write. Over the Peanut Fence and The Water Factor are stories, yes, but more than that, they are calls to action. Most people who read my newsletter are in this rarefied group. So, I beg you to take a minute to evaluate what you have already contributed to society and what you intend to do in the future. We can’t sit on past laurels if we are to leave the world a better place for the next generation.
References:
Cox, H. (2014) What motivates us to engage in activism. Retrieved from https://commonslibrary.org/what-motivates-us-to-engage-in-activism/
Website. What is an IQ Score? What Does My IQ Score Mean? Mindware. Retrieved from https://www.highiqpro.com/iq-tests/what-does-my-iq-score-mean
Cherry, K ( 2022) Are High IQ People More Successful? A Modern Look at Terman’s Study of the Gifted. Verywell mind. Retrieved from https://www.verywellmind.com/are-people-with-high-iqs-more-successful-2795280#:~:text
Art is always for sale. Origin Of A Thought is an acrylic on canvas painting in black metal frame, 12″ x 14″. Available for $ 175, includes shipping in the continental U.S. Purchase at www.eichingerfinearart.com
I look forward to your comments.
When you read The Water Factor, be aware that though the situations I write about are fictionalized and exciting, they are based on fact. Don’t sit back. Pay attention. Organize. Returning access to clean water is a human right, not a commodity to be sold on Wall Street.
The Water Factor is available in ebook, paperback, and audio formats. The book is a Firefly International Award winner that can be purchased on AMAZON, Barnes and Noble, and as an audiobook on Amazon, Audible, and ITunes.
