Interesting. Sorry its been so long with a reply, that time of year.

Had to go to the wiki article on Ivan Illich to see what he was all about. Certainly interesting ideas, although the wiki doesn’t go into depth so i can’t say whether i’d gel with them or not.

The one thing i’d say is he seems a little hard on institutions. Unfortunately the only reason we’ve made such advances to be able to have conversations about modes of education or over medicalisation is because of the boring, unseen and largely forgotten works of millions of individuals tied into an institutional framework of one sort or another.

For example, institutions like the British East India company did terrible, (fucked up) things; but also made connections, both social and mechanical. Through the company’s actions many trade routes or ties we still use today. (Picked this one because of its controversial nature).

But as i write all this i’m well aware i might be overstating what i believe Ivan Illich’ problems with institutions to be, so i should leave it there.

But the main point,

“Something is good, when it is uniquely and incomparably appropriate in its given setting.”

I’d say the above quote about your response, thank you. You answered my question searching for a more universally applicable statement very well.