Progress imposes not only new possibilities for the future but new restrictions – Norbert Wiener.
Progression is an abstract concept, carrying with it the implication that there is an improvement in the quality of something, or that there is advancement where society is being propelled forward. Therefore, there is an assumption that moving ‘forward’ is the correct and only direction in which one should be guided to achieve progress, even though this may not be the case; in fact, it may be the act of rewinding time that could still provide the elements for progress. The adage of ‘learning from one’s mistakes’ comes into play here, where the currency of an idea is essentially a modification of its previously undesirable aspects. If this new idea is successful, it is then classed as progression. Is progress a matter of success, however, if it is an ‘imposition’ as Wiener suggests? Perhaps only if it imposed on the human condition and societal norms and values, does it actually provide us with new future prospects. These possibilities should be regulated to ensure they are in agreement with laws that have been passed in society’s best interests to facilitate order. An advancement or progression in ideas, on the other hand, does not necessitate new possibilities for the future, meaning that new restrictions do not need to be put in place to control the extent of progress. Nevertheless, progression is the only means by which future prospects become identifiable, and the restrictions that accompany these possibilities are a small effort in the grand scheme of opportunities.
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