‘Every element in a civilisation is, in the last analysis, the contribution of...’
Technological breakthroughs, transforming life and economy,
First the Industrial Revolution, then the microchip hegemony:
Negotiable in these markets any coin with the imagery
Defaced, of humanity.¹
‘Every element in a civilisation is, in the last analysis, the contribution of...’
Individuals prophesying changes in theology,
In style, demand, competition or technology,
Or catalysing those changes, innovating a psychology
With a restless pathology.²
‘Every element in a civilisation is, in the last analysis, the contribution of...’
The rare who cash in on their individuality,
The larger-than-life star on field and TV;
More coercive is the despot, more liberating the luminary
As objects of idolatry.³
‘Every element in a civilisation is, in the last analysis, the contribution of...’
The individual personality, moulded by convention,
By the religious, political and occupational dimension -
The ‘framework’ of suicides that to Durkheim meant suspension
Of empathic comprehension.4
‘Every element in a civilisation is, in the last analysis, the contribution of...’
Individuals one so treats by understanding their needs
And personality, so one speaks as tactfully as heeds:
The diplomat in family or society reads
Individuals, not breeds.5
4 Έmile Durkheim showed that poor social integration and regulation lead to more suicides. A suicide may have a great impact (suicide bombers) or little on society. Either way, it is the antithesis of ‘the con- tribution of an individual”, and it is the convention to explain it without reference to the state of mind.