Human beings sometimes find a kind of pleasure in nursing painful emotions, in blaming themselves without reason or even against reason. - Isaac Asimov

When you think of human history, you think of the occasional human being whose minority view may be condemned by society but who wins out in the end and changes the world. What chance is there on Gaia for the great rebels of history?

Let them all come,' said the Commdor, expansively. 'A symbolic friendly union of our nations. It will give us a chance for further friendly discussion. But one thing.' his face lengthened and grew stern, 'none of your religion. Don't think that all this is an entering wedge for the missionaries.'

'Commdor,' said Mallow, dryly, 'I give you my word that religion would cut my profits.

He [Robert A. Heinlein] always pictured himself a libertarian, which to my way of thinking means "I want the liberty to grow rich and you can have the liberty to starve". It's easy to believe that no one should depend on society for help when you yourself happen not to need such help.