Unbalanced Development
Thoughts about Elon Musk
One of the most common dilemmas explained by Integral Theory, specifically the Line’s Element of Integral, is that we develop unevenly. Because we have uneven interests and talents, we become good or expert at chemistry, sewing, anthropology, carpentry, art, selling, teaching, and so on. Most of the rest of human endeavors are left behind by each of us.
Ken Wilber often refers, when talking about Lines, to the Nazi doctors who did terrible medical testing on prisoners. They were highly developed in their cognitive skills and largely undeveloped in moral reasoning—a terrible combination, especially when our technologies continue to advance.
Today, many of us are perplexed by the example of Elon Musk. Originally a technology hero for advancing our ability to build batteries and electric cars, he is now embarrassing a fleet of Tesla owners for his sophomoric behavior that he magnifies on his expensive toy, Xitter.
It looks like we can retire the Nazi doctors and replace them with a more current example of Unbalanced Development. All strengths can cut in two or more ways. Be very careful how you handle that sharp knife!