[parthianshotgun]

Yes I agree with that, but having understood those laws (hypothetically), of which I guess you might be referring to human behaviour, evolutionary principles etc. How can we be sure that those naturalistic foundations could possibly inform the problem of 'what to do now'? Wouldn't be a bit like a mirror trying to reflect itself, or possibly, a fish trying to understand that it's in water?

[nec4b]

Understanding the laws doesn't guarantee we'll be able to solve the problem. But not knowing them almost guarantees we will not do a good job.

[parthianshotgun]

True enough. At this point I suppose I don't disagree with you, though I've also lost the plot a bit. Hope you enjoy a restful holiday season wherever you are