Publication Date

1992

Document Type

Article

Abstract

When an animate, conscious body - individual, collective, economic or political - is imbued with a strong central vision or focus, the ongoing actions of the body automatically become coordinated and subordinated to the dictates of that core imagery. When the center is affirmative and qualitative, then the body has a distinct capacity for self-sufficiency, endurance, and equilibrium. If, however, the central focus is negative or linear, then the capacity for internal homeostasis is greatly lessened. A core of fear, anger, or endless material craving can prompt the exercises of power that herein will be called irresponsible. Such exercises of power may not only infect and weaken the employer, but will, in all likelihood, project outward to the harm of others.

This essay will attempt to explore the use and abuse of power by what will be called "altruistic communities." "Abuse by altruism" sounds oxymoronic. To resolve this appearance, and to facilitate our travel and direction will require some preliminary definitional work. Indeed, politics, law, and social function are generally aided by semantic precision, or by efforts in that regard. Single words or evocative phraseology can sym­bolize, galvanize, and direct the awareness, energy, and actions of indi­viduals and groups. The same fixating power of pivotal articulations can also mislead and confine. Therefore, some anterior postulations and, hopefully, some agreement on the scope and meaning of terms will channel the discussion and conclusions.

Publication Title

University of Missouri Kansas City Law Review

Volume

60

Issue

3

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