Theos-Talk Archives (January 1997 Message tl00911)

>Doss:
>>> The problem is how to make Theosophy reach the masses, especially the 
>>> less intelligent, less educated person. ...
>
>We won't.  We can't.  According to Maslow's hierarchy of needs,
>people concentrate their time on basic survival first, then safety,
>and only then will they begin to think about such things as theosophy.
>Unfortunately, the masses are all pretty much wrapped up on Maslow's
>lower levels, and don't have much time for such things as theosophy.
>We may be able to get in a few things, but the masses will never
>have time to study theosophy or any other philosophy.
>
>Jerry S.
>Member, TI

Not only, that (we won't.  we can't.), but *why*?
Why do we need to make Theosophy reach the masses?  Knowing about Theosophy
isn't going to change the world, not even if all the world knew about it.

I suppose we could quibble here about the semantics - I have used the words
"knowing about Theosophy", while Doss said "reach the masses".  Perhaps we
*can* make Theosophy reach the masses by engaging in "good works".  Perhaps
the Theosophical Order of Service has actually got the right idea .... by
showing the action that comes from the ideal of "brotherhood" we can show
the world part of what Theosophy is about, and lead on from there.

But I still question the need to reach the masses.  

Kathleen Dixon.