The Price of Security is Insecurity

When considering Benjamin's binaries, simple polar classification of relationships is an “easy-out” from dealing with the existential reality of contradictory nature: the co-existence of a need for recognition and a yearning for independence.

Thus, the first step towards equality is to embrace paradoxical reality.

Consequently, one needs to recognize that, by its paradoxical nature, this mindset will eventually break down.

It’s bound to confuse. One must therefore recognize its fragility, yet also strive to embrace the ethereal reality-- recognize the fine balance necessary to live in mutual recognition may slip away at any moment, but also know the mindset can be “recaptured." Herein lies Benjamin's second true paradox: we must “accept the inevitable inconsistency and imperfection of our efforts without relinquishing the project.”

Dan Harris, author of "10% Happier" put Benjamin's second paradox perfectly when he said "the price of security is insecurity."

Because the moment we become complacent about our beliefs, they falter. The moment we overlook what defines us, we change. The moment we take something or someone for granted, they cease to be that.

As humans, we crave simplicity and order. To clear our minds, we create labels and slap them onto what we don't fully understand. What's wrong here? Well.. we haven't truly understood what we just labeled. We tell ourselves labels help us understand, but who needs a label on a jar if they know what's inside?

We tell ourselves we believe "equality for all." Is equality is a label? I think so. So if we don't truly understand the full implications of mutual recognition, what can we be sure of?

We can know that we don't know.

We must step outside of our self-absorbed need to define nature through labels and look at the bigger picture. Don't define what you don't know, and everyone becomes a subject. 

Walking Benjamin's tightrope is difficult-- near impossible...

...But, if we are willing to recognize mutual recognition's paradoxical fragility, pursue it regardless, and admit we don't have all the answers, maybe-- just maybe, we could make a lasting change to the world.