Plane of Truth

Geometry of Social Justice

There are in Geometry three basic elements from which all theorems and postulates are derived. They are points, lines and planes. A point has no dimensions. It has no length, width, or height yet it exists as a concept required to understand other ideas and concepts. We can think of a point as the primary element of all existence in Euclidian space . In the context of this discussion then, a point could metaphorically represents a unique principle, idea, concept or point of view upon which all else exists within a society.

A line is determined by two points. It can be extended indefinitely in either of two directions each of which can be extended to extremes. A line consisting of an extreme liberal view point on the left and an excessive, greedy/self-interest point of view on the right could metaphorically represent a society constantly struggling to maintain stability.

In a societal context all decisions must fall somewhere along the continuum of the line passing through these points of view. Legislation is passed favoring one perspective over the other. In time, the power shifts and new laws are adopted that support the opposing sensitivities. In such a society, there is a constant struggle for control, power and influence between two opposing vantage points.

Before discussing a plane, let us examine more closely the line metaphor. Consider a husband and wife each of whom enters a marriage with their own ideas of individual rights and responsibilities. They frequently argue and family decisions are based upon the winner. This, of course, is short lived. When the disputed topic is addressed again the results may or may not be the same. Predictably, if neither is willing to change their point of view, divorce is the probable outcome.

A plane is determined by three non-collinear points. It has two dimensions: length and width and thus metaphorically represents a society in which decisions must satisfy all three different ideas, concepts or principles simultaneously.

The third point in our metaphorical plane is defined as a compromise between the two existing perspectives. Ideas on the right and left must acknowledge and respect the rights of those of the opposing view point. These are the equitable and just human responsibilities defined by The Absolute, The Governor of Creation. So this creates a Plane of Truth — an environment in which individual ideals, norms and values are tempered by Divine decree.

Whereas a line allows for constant tension between opposing perspectives, a plane does not. It represents the environment in which all three outlooks must be satisfied.

In our marriage example the family is successful if and only if they are able to establish a point of compromise. Some couples are unable to reach this point and end in divorce. In some cases the man and woman must go through several failed marriages before they learn this basic lesson.

Three points can establish balance. For example, a tripod is stable on uneven ground. I believe our Founding Fathers recognized this natural relationship when our government was established with three branches. The legislative and executive branches sometimes support opposing points of view and the judicial providing the voice of final authority if a compromise is not achievable.

Let us now consider this analogy in the context of our current political situation. Ideas on the right and left have gone to extremes. Each is more concerned with its own interests and blames the other for rigidity.

The stabilizing aspect of the government of our Founding Fathers was the acknowledgment that all human actions were answerable to a Higher Authority — “One Nation Under God. “

Today the rigid support of extreme liberalism (do anything that you want) and extreme conservatism (greed and self-interest) is destroying our ability to establish a point of Divinely-inspired compromise for the good of us all. We are unable to re-establish an environment that celebrates the merit in opposing point of views but yet is able to yield for the good of us all. I believe that a plane of truth is a good plan for our nation’s future.