Slavery - section 14 (final section)

 

14

 

"The question then becomes," said Director, "whether natural bravery leads to a naturally masterly mind."

 

"What need is there for bravery, anyway?"

 

"Maybe the need is the same as that for fear."

 

"What is that need?"

 

"Oh, I don't know. I suppose it has to do with self-preservation. You have to be brave enough to face the enemy but fearful enough to run away when necessary. Something like that. Or would you rather say bravery is always good and fearfulness is always bad."

 

"No, no - I think you put it well. Fight or flight. The problem is when you fly when others fight."

 

"Or fight when others fly?"

 

"We don't often think of that as a problem. But you're right to ask. That may be the root of the masterly mind, in that experience."

 

"The next question is - do we encourage or discourage such behavior, such fighting? What happens in your new world to these fighters?"

 

"We make them slaves," Professor said with a straight face.

 

"You're serious?"

 

"Yes, we make them our fighting slaves."

 

"What makes them continue fighting for their masters?"

 

Professor shrugged. "It's in their nature to fight, and we will always find ways to make them fight for us. You see? You were right. I do prefer the slavish minds." He laughed.

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