How can a science-fiction writer help us think about inclusion?
Years ago, my sister, Mary, sent me this quote that reminded her of me. I had not read Heinlein’s books yet, but the ‘versatile utility’ theme struck me as familiar. I later learned he was a fellow military service academy graduate and engineer, but one who went on to write genre-defining science fiction stories. You may have heard of Starship Troopers (which ironically featured specialized alien insects working together to threaten humanity).
I return to Heinlein’s writing from time to time. To me, he represents how people can transcend the first few conventional descriptors given (i.e. military engineer). His lengthy quote, meanwhile, with its odd collection of extraordinary and ordinary capabilities, illustrates that a moderate list is actually needed just to relate one vision of human capabilities.
The quote also offers an interesting diversity and inclusion perspective. How do people describe their abilities if pushed beyond titles and credentials, beyond personality-test types, and beyond a small set of conventional identifiers which could also describe many people? I think personalized Hein-lists, like unique fingerprints of abilities, could be fun avenues for inclusion.
At a minimum, I hope to encourage deeper learning about each other. Beyond the first two words in mind, what is the best way to learn what else describes someone? Specialization exists and is important (thank you surgeons and pilots!), but it certainly does not preclude general knowledge, multiple deep skills, and personally-unique fingerprints of abilities.
This is personal as well. Like Heinlein, the words military engineer attempt to restrain me. People will say my writing or creativity or professional range surprises them. A recruiter admitted to assuming I spent my whole career ‘on boats.’ Would a Hein-list of abilities paint a better picture for these rushed resume readers and busy people?
It’s worth a shot.
In the spirit of deeper learning, are any of my connections willing to share their own “A human being should be able to…” quote? A #HeinleinChallenge if you will? Highlight ~21 of your skills that you value; the more unique and less apparent the better! Tag a friend who you know has unheralded talents.
If you cannot write one about yourself, we must assume you are an insect :)
I’ll start:
“A human being should be able to learn from anyone, challenge orthodoxy, measure a star, solve for ‘X’, write fiction, speak memorably, attempt a repair, sail upwind, support a spouse, learn a new sport, keep a schedule, identify birds, read a map, camp in the cold, make a photo-book, herd wild children, draw freehand, grieve loss, surprise even friends, decorate a cake, and sing a salty sea shanty. Specialization is for insects (and aviators).”
~
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