Beta: And I would like to reiterate what stands out for me. Each single
use or reference increases the value of a creative work and the
publicity of its author.
Kappa: By the way, royalties don’t!
Delta: Too bad.
Alpha: Hey, stay focused.
Gamma: I think we are. One of our initial observations was that
cultural phenomena increase in value while being used. I believe
that relates somehow to what I was saying.
Alpha: How can we determine this increase in value? I agree that
references might cause an increase in value. But competition
causes a decrease in value. These two ideas are just ideas. They
are not proven facts. At any rate, we cannot take that increase as a
given.
Kappa: All right, now at least we have a problem statement!
Delta: Wait, wait. I hardly see a problem here. Competition is always
seen by businessmen as something harmful! Still, it is considered
a positive phenomenon for the entire society!
Kappa: Actually, yes . . . and if we turn to our very subject, this is even
more so, ... I think.
Delta: Why?
Kappa: Because knowledge is more valuable the more it is known! Isn’t
that obvious? . . . I mean, valuable for society.
Teacher: What do you think, Alpha?
Alpha: I think that someone saw a problem two minutes ago and now
doesn’t. Someone changes opinions pretty quickly!
Teacher: Still, what do you think about the idea that knowledge is
more valuable for society the more it is known?
Alpha: I have to think before I can say what I think.
Delta: Exactly.
Alpha: Exactly. Applies to everyone.
Teacher: This is a very important point, of course, although a
conversation itself can work pretty well.
Alpha: So, what’s your advice? Just to keep talking without thinking?
Teacher: Hmm, a tough question . . . I would say that I have to do two
things in a conversation like ours. First, I have to unconditionally
accept new ideas, and that means putting thinking aside. Second,
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