1. Such nonmainstream areas of inquiry as astrology, fortune-telling, and psychic and paranormal pursuits play a vital role in society by satisfying human needs that are not addressed by mainstream science.
2. Society does not place enough emphasis on the intellect-that is, on reasoning and other cognitive skills.
3. It is through the use of logic and of precise, careful measurement that we become aware of our progress. Without such tools, we have no reference points to indicate how far we have advanced or retreated.
4. At various times in the geological past, many species have become extinct as a result of natural, rather than human, processes. Thus, there is no justification for society to make extraordinary efforts, especially at a great cost in money and jobs, to save endangered species.
5. The absence of choices is a circumstance that is very, very rake.
6. What society has thought to be it greatest social, political, and individual achievements have often resulted in the greatest discontent.
7. The well-being of a society is enhanced when many of its people question authority.
8. Tradition and modernization are incompatible. One must choose between them.
9. The only responsibility of corporate executives, provided they stay within the law, is to make as much money as possible for their companies.
10. Many problems of modern society cannot be solved by laws and the legal system because moral behavior cannot be legislated.
11. Scandals—whether in politics, academia, or other areas—can be useful. They focus our attention on problems in ways that no speaker or reformer ever could.
12. Practicality is now our great ideal, which all powers and talents must serve. Anything that is not obviously practical has little value in today’s world.
13. It is easy to welcome innovation and accept new ideas. What most people find difficult, however, is accepting the way these new ideas are put into practice.
14. The best way to understand the character of a society is to examine the character of the men and women that the society chooses as its heroes or its heroines.
15. Progress is best made through discussion among people who have contrasting points of vies.