What is the difference between conformists and non-conformists? Are non-conformists liked in Bulgaria? Dian Todorov reflected on these questions in his latest analysis. In it he involved his readers in the game „conformists – non-conformists“, namely:
“First, I’ll explain the rules of the game. There are two categories of people – those who accept and obey the rules, and others, more revolutionary, do not accept the rules, rebel against the status quo, especially when they find it wrong or stupid.
In general, in Bulgaria and everywhere in the world, disobedient people are not very liked. I know human nature well, and I am aware that sycophants are always liked by superiors and those in power, but not everyone is given to the pleasing behavior.
In general, in Bulgaria and everywhere in the world, disobedient people are not very liked. I know human nature well, and I am aware that sycophants are always liked by superiors and those in power, but not everyone is given to the pleasing behavior.
Sycophants are rewarded handsomely – they are sent on free trips, they receive higher bonuses, they enjoy better treatment, they are patted on the obedient head.
I am aware that obedient people are necessary for the system, they are necessary for its existence, it feeds on them. For this reason, they can sleep peacefully, they are necessary. Even Erasmus of Rotterdam was forced to write letters to express his admiration for those in power and to please them, since he was dependent on their handouts, yet he wrote the satirical work „Praise of Folly“ which speaks for itself, that internally he does not accept lackey behavior. Whereas others have it in their nature and would never dare contradict people in authority.
But on the other hand, non-conformists are needed in this world, they change it for the better. I give an example with the Unification /September 6, 1885/ and the Independence of Bulgaria /September 22, 1908/, announced by people who did not accept the rules. Dates and events that every Bulgarian should remember. Also, in a month or so is the National Enlighteners Day /November 1/. They were all non-conformists, that’s why they were called enlighteners, but they were appreciated later in time. The paradox is that the obedient people enthusiastically applaud the non-obedient people, they just lack the courage to show such initiative. God forbid that their interests should be affected!
This is a game, as I said at the beginning, which does not at all resemble life in Bulgaria. Here, everything is flourishing, superiors and subordinates hold hands and walk together towards the bright future they are building, singing the Internationale.
In conclusion, I think that the lessen that we need to draw from everything said so far is one: Be obedient! Those who do not master the art of flattery /such as me/ will bear the consequences of their behavior.“
