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| "It is unrealistic to expect a return to some mythic simpler time when most of us rallied behind King and Country and few questioned the social order or the values imposed by church and state" |
| Society
has become fragmented. Research shows that central
institutions no longer provide us with a common sense of
identity and purpose. New forces are needed to drive economic and social change. Society, once galvanized by dreams of a just society, has had its collective identity weakened in recent years. Globalization, immigration, youth unemployment and the growing gap between rich and poor have all played a role in widening the fault lines of society worldwide. An inclusive "Human Identity" is being weakened by forces that are eroding the traditional symbols and institutions that have historically helped to promote a common sense of purpose. We must strive to re-create a unifying vision for society or risk its disintegration. Social cohesion is needed to keep the human race intact and thriving throughout the millenium. This will be the greatest challenge of the decade. The depth of the problem is highlighted by public opinion polls conducted to assess society's regard for symbols that unite. Research is increasingly unable to agree on symbols that might express our shared values. Short on compelling symbols and funding we will have to do a better job of defining and conveying values that will unite us. In broader terms, that means improving access to knowledge through radio, television and newspapers and broadening the social and educational content of the Internet. More must also be done to teach one and all about our common history and culture. Findings are conclusive that most people are dying of ignorance. We do not know enough about ourselves. The rich and educated amongst us express concern for the ignorant and poor, but they identify mainly with their own affluent kind and not with those in need. This fragmentation is in itself, not threatening, but poses challenges when accompanied by a limited knowledge and understanding of the diverse peoples of the world, their history, their institutions and more particularly across linguistic lines. We need to work together to understand how decisions about taxes, immigration, trade and cultural protection all contribute to how we view ourselves. Our success in this millennium will depend largely on the degree to which our efforts can nurture a new set of shared values and symbols. We are the product of millions of years of evolution. It is essential at this point to identify our common values and to promote a shared commitment to our future as a species. Our World's diverse populations, rich resources, advanced technology and infrastructures represent strengths that can be built upon to transform ourselves further. New ideas that promote "Equality" of opportunity and "Regulated" Free Markets are needed to ensure that the greatest opportunities for prosperity go to the greatest number of people. Old socio-economic and political structures that divide us must be put into the dust bin of history. There is an ongoing struggle In every corner of the Universe for the survival of the fittest. Will we survive as a species and go on to the greater and more fascinating challenges ahead? Only if we can agree on a "Common Sense Of Purpose" based on the ideals of fairness, justice and compassion. Ideals that are as big and as all encompassing as our World, our Galaxy and the Universe itself.
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