The Theory of Opposites
       Also called the Theory of Opposing Truths, it is one of the primary contemplations of his life, which he revised and restated throughout his long career. Simply put, it is the notion that the contradiction of any idea has equal validity to the idea itself, however ridiculous it seems. It is the core argument for the acceptance of the counterintuitive. He wrote in his journal, "It is essential as well as empowering to always consider possibilities contained within the impossible."

       Many other related topics start with this theory of opposing truths. The following is an incomplete list:

Secret of His Encrusted Successes: Attention To The Critical Detail
       Oldold hypothesized that all matter could be enabled to exhibit encrusted potential. It was not the matter itself that was significant, but other, more influential factors. He discovered that unusual circumstances may embue significant attributes to matter beyond the observable physical state. He wrote in his teaching text, "Consider a sample of water. By observation, we know only that it looks like water. By analysis, we may discover it actually is water, but there is so much more to learn. Perhaps it is water in its most potent form - fresh rainwater. If so, it is embued with the awesome attributes of the Newly Fallen, a requirement in many encrusted formulae. On the other hand, it could be stale, weeks old water from the birdbath - pretty much a useless reagent, except as an inhibitor. And there are an infinite number of conditions that determine the effectiveness of a particular sample of water." By paying attention to what he called the Critical Detail, Oldold dicovered the rare combinations that resulted in repeated success in harnessing encrusted forces of all kinds. "Remember that water collected from dew drops is not the same as water from a melted snowman."

       

Political Power
       (from his journal) "A most difficult personal hurdle for me is the acknowledgement of my own political power. I realize that my successes have given my opinions credence beyond that which they deserve, and that I must use these new found powers for the betterment of all. But working to change laws that unfairly monopolize our common bounty will most certainly mean taking rights away from those who feel entitled to them. And so I must become comfortable with the fact that the exercise of political power creates enemies. Learning to live with this one truth could make my life much less stressful. I must also expect my adversaries to show their contempt for me, something I do not have for them. And when I feel pressured to respond to their anger, I must hear the voice that says, 'Don't complain, don't explain, don't lay blame.'"

       

The Benefits Of Being Annoying
       A father daughter philosophical correspondence well worth reading.

Seemingly Stupid