General

In physics we say to every action there is an equal and opposite reaction, thanks to Newton. In biology we are more apt to say that in terms of behaviour and emotionality there is a reaction of equal mirroring and reciprocation. In essence, people in a state of triggered fear are predictably going to "respond in kind," whether the response is indeed kind or not. Thus as we make our road toward equal rights for all citizens of our mother Earth, we must take this into account. In what we write and say we must be showing kindness and a willingness to see the perspectives of others, especially where there is disagreement. For when we do this they will respond in the same good manner, to make some effort to see the good reasoning put forward from the other "side." From here it is a road to peace, of greater comprehension of others, and the start of a love that will then be mirrored and reciprocated throughout the many wonderful cultures of our species. Keep in your thoughts, dear activist for equal rights, regardless of which perspective you are coming from, you can say whatever you wish, yet it is how we say our words that gets results. Honesty, compassion, empathy, noble intent, integrity - these are essential to the social recipe that brings equality.

General

Professor Bruce sat in the light of the courtyard, as if relaxing into a moment of inner self-reflection. Then he spoke as if half of him were lingering within some heavenly dream, "When campaigning or influencing for equal rights take care to note the number of power gradients acting on each speaker - real or fictional character. The empowerment of those with multiple power gradients acting against them is vital, yet societal progress may be quicker if they are partnered with 'ally' voices with little or no power gradients against them. Pragmatism with idealism can unlock empathy faster and with greater permenance."

A hand shot up, "How? How does that work?"

"Yes," said the Professor, "it's similar to the activation energies required for enzymes as a concept... we think of it as neurological activation energy... the more power gradients against a person the higher the energy required for the listeners brain to take their message in. The most basic example is of a woman speaking of women's rights, she is both a woman and the subject matter is about women, that's already a double gradient. Now, if she is a woman of colour, a lesbian, poor or with a low level of education, then we're magnifying the power gradient to a level that acts a societal trap. Yet if we bring in an ally who is male, white and priviledged to introduce her and back her speech, then the brains of the listener are more likely to absorb the truth of what she says and wish to support her. We want to empower her to speak for herself, yet maximise the take up of the message."