CODA Project
Mythologizing the Bible
Cooperation Is Self-Defense!
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Cooperation Is Self-Defense!

MTB Ep. 8: "Afterthoughts"

The idea of global cooperation might seem naïve at first glance but it’s not. It’s necessary. And like so many other challenging issues, there are several common pushbacks people offer when it comes to this idea… pushbacks like nationalism, competition, immigration, and isolationism. But the fact is that these fear-driven narratives and information silos aren’t protecting us, they’re pushing us toward fragility instead of strength. Our focus should be on outcomes, a bit of self-interest, and whether or not we’re willing to face reality!

The statement I made when summing up the lessons from the three readings in this week’s main episode, Humanity First, will probably trigger a lot of eye-rolling from otherwise decent people. That line was this: Cooperation, kindness, and responsibility at a global scale aren’t naïve ideals—they’re the ethical foundation of a much better future.

A lot of folks hear that and think, Sure. Sounds nice. Completely unrealistic.

But let me be even more blunt than usual. Instead of soft-pedaling this, I want to do the opposite. I want to take the most common objections seriously and then dismantle them. Not with slogans or memes. Not with moral posturing. Not even with Bible verses. But with logic, history, and verifiable outcomes.

Because if we’re going to claim we value reason, realism, and results, then we need to follow those principles where they actually lead.

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