Date: Thu, 07 Feb 2002
Anti-Individualism -- Our Government at Work
Thomas M. Miovas, Jr.
I first heard about these stories on the Rush Limbaugh Show, both are
anti-individualism on principle, even though the Smithsonian Institute
tries to cover that up by claiming it is a public institution and therefore
they can't permit individual donors make decisions as to what they will
display.
From the Washington Post (on-line):
"Local businesswoman Catherine B. Reynolds told the Smithsonian Institution
yesterday that she will withdraw most of a planned $38 million donation
that would have created an exhibit on individual achievement at the
National Museum of American History."
"They attacked the planned emphasis on famous individuals instead of
focusing on demographic groups or ordinary Americans."
"Apparently, the basic philosophy for the exhibit -- ' the power of the
individual to make a difference' -- is the antithesis of that espoused by
many within the Smithsonian bureaucracy, which is ' only movements and
institutions make a difference, not individuals.' After much contemplation,
I see no way to reconcile these diametrically opposed philosophical
viewpoints," she said.
At least someone in business has a backbone and knows where *not* to put
her money.
www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A23724-2002Feb4.html
