Ward:
<< Also - what do people think the difference is between fanatical,
objectionable proselytizing and a more healthy approach to spreading awareness
of something that one believes has merit? After all, most of us have ideas
that we would like to see have influence in the world. Are there any real
differences other than degree? >>

I think I may be the only one answering your interesting questions here, but
anyway here goes again.

My thoughts:

You asked above for the difference between the two scenarios. The main
difference as I see it is that the first type of communication (if you can
call it that) doesn't work. People don't accquire new information, or change
their attitudes or behaviors, by being proselytized or belittled or insulted
or preached at.

So how does one inspire and lead others? First and most importantly, by
listening to them, one by one. Asking for people's opinions about important
subjects, and listening with respect to their answers. In my opinion there is
nothing more important in human interaction than listening.

Next, by making friends and as many close relationships as possible. It is
much easier to be heard, and to change people's attitudes or behaviors, if you
have their trust as a cherished friend.

Next, by having unquestionable integrity. You have to be trustworthy, and your
word has to be trustworthy, for people to want to hear and give credence to
what you might have to say. If you lack integrity and courage, you will not
have much influence.

Next, by speaking from your heart, out of love and passion and compassion, and
by telling the truth.

Next, by putting your thoughts and ideas into writing (I'm trying to learn to
do this better) in a way that is clear, heartfelt, creative, inspiring,
logical, easily understood, respectful, funny, passionate, etc. In other
words, learning to be a good writer. And by making your writing widely
available in the form of books, letters, articles, booklets, in as many
creative ways as you can think of to make your written material easily
accessible.

Next, by bringing people together to be able to discuss and listen to each
other's thinking, using you as a model for how to listen respectfully and how
to speak succinctly, honestly, and with clarity.

Next, by doing your homework (like all your huge amount of work on
evolutionary diet patterns). By being willing to do the work of becoming
completely knowledgeable on your topic.

Next, making sure that you don't become scapegoated or attacked for being a
visible and outspoken leader by insuring that you do not become isolated but
instead have a circle of good close totally trustworthy friends who will act
immediately with complete reliability like "junk-yard dogs" if there is even
any hint of an attack on you.

Next, by having a sense of humour, being entertaining, and being an attractive
personality that people are drawn to and want to hang around.

It's 2:30 am - I'll sign off now and go to bed. I think this is my last post
allowed to the list for this day, so I won't be writing more until tomorrow.

Thanks again Ward for asking some great questions. I'm still looking forward
to hearing your own thoughts.

Lots of love, Liza
[log in to unmask] (Liza May)