In the 19th century, the work of Johann Gregor Mendel, a German-Czech monk in his abbey’s garden and British biologist Charles Darwin‘s observations, the notion of genetic transmission and value of breeding outside a closed group emerged. Introduction of a wide range of genetic variables favors adaptation to environmental challenges.
Termed “hybrid vigor”, the same theory can be applied in other situations. Introduction of new ideas and perspectives can stimulate discussion and energize thought processes mired in circular logic that resists original or novel ideas.
New and innovative businesses often are the result of entrepreneurs thinking “outside the box”. Although not always financially successful, these methods stimulate additional efforts that lead to significant advances in science, medicine and many other disciplines including music and artistic expression.
The political arena is no different, facing the same obstacles of resistance by those benefitting from the status quo. Institutional memory is important to acknowledge and respect the past, but should not be a mandate for all future actions.
Term limits are designed to resist the lure of complacency of both elected and electorate. If, however, such limits do not apply or dominance of a particular political party or structure impedes the introduction of new ideas and progress, our government at all levels, will be in danger of failure.
As we move into this election year, hopefully candidates at least at the local level will include new faces and ideas that will challenge each other and incumbents to clearly articulate their accomplishments and a dynamic vision for the future.
Elections for city councils, school boards and special districts are critical to the health and well-being of our communities. Residents with strong commitment to a dynamic, balanced society should be encouraged to join the candidate pool. They may need some reassurance to enter the pollical arena. In a free and open society, our collective answer should be a resounded “Yes, go for it!” Reliance on familiar faces, ideas and methods may be comfortable but introduction of novel and contrasting concepts may have merit as well, injecting hybrid vigor into our system.