July 25

Whenever there is an unexpected disparity, whether in the short term or long term, whether in small matters or large, the human brain is "hardwired" to "normalize." Normalization has been a function of the human brain since the earliest humans and it has been a major source of evolutionary adaptation. When we look back in history, particularly at horrendous periods, we wonder how it is that so many people just "went along" bit by bit until totally engulfed in the "new" normal. Although there are many factors, most are built on top of the brain's attempt to normalize. This is obviously a function that is prior to any conscious functions such as social affiliations of any kind, any conscious beliefs, any conscious values.

We are entering a time created by an unexpected disparity, disjunction, and disturbance of the "normal." There is nothing about normalization that tells us whether what we come to do and how we come to function will be good or bad, neutral or indifferent. In spite of the degree of distress, disbelief, and urgent calls to action we see on all sides at present, what will tend to undermine and dissolve all this resolve is normalization. You can already see it working. It will take great effort and courage and commitment to counteract the automaticity of normalization.

The Federal Reserve instituted the ZIRP policy (zero interest rate policy) nine years ago. It wasn't long before Mohamed A. El-Erian coined the term, "New Normal." This has now become ubiquitous (with even a TV series by that name). Now the "new" part of this has disappeared and everyone functions in relation to ZIRP as simply normal. It does not take long.

It may not seem like it now when passions are running high, when fear and panic are at a pitch, that what we see coming could ever be experienced as normal. Do not underestimate the power of normalization. One place of natural resistance to normalization is in one's dreams. You probably won't hear this on the news or any other place, but dreams will be your survivor's guide to the power of normalization.