Using It or Losing It (podcast $)

Exercise improves physical ability and mental agility,
does it also improve symbolic thinking and democratic society?

“Money is like an arm or leg – use it or lose it.” — Henry Ford

“Perspective: use it or lose it.” — Richard Bach

Is Doing the Right Thing a Privilege or a Responsibility?

The expression “use it or lose it” applies to health and skill, but not to other things to which it could be applied, such as emotion, initiative, motivation, empathy, self-respect, and responsibility, just to name a few. Does it also apply to democracy?

Intellectual Ability and Exercise

My memory might be dulling but it’s hard to tell. If you question your memory too much you can come to almost any conclusion.

Physical Ability and Exercise

I suspect people who use crutches lose function. I now consciously avoid using supports, and my back has quickly improved.

Emotional Ability and Exercise

We don’t equate a lack of emotional exercise with a loss of emotional ability, but we should.

Can We Lose Our Ability to Symbolize?

Thinking symbolically is different from thinking intellectually or emotionally. As a metaphor, consider intellect like a propeller, emotion like a sail, and symbolism like a rudder.

Use or Lose Democracy?

If democracy can be strengthened through exercise, what kind of exercise? More voting? A more informed electorate? Better choices?