Pivotal Generations

Thanks, Wizard. You write "Some " believe " that humans will rise to the challenge of what faces them with creativity and adaptability, and we will solve any problems that come along." I agree that many will rise to the challenge. But as you have earlier pointed out, we have delayed response for so long that we face not just a challenge but a crises.

An earlier pivotal generation faced a crises of survival in the 1930's with the Great Depression and ensuing World War. Bonded with nature, they generally lived simply and self-reliantly with regard for social order. Meeting their challenges earned them respect as the Great Generation.

When we first saw our own future back in the 1960's and 1970's, many rejected consumerism and attempted to return to sustainable communities with shared spiritual values. It was an adventurous but tough road with many distractions and so most were eventually lured back to the world of comfort, ease and plenty.

In rejection of our current value system, many of our youth have withdrawn, not back to nature this time, but into the virtual world of cyberspace. From that position, can they be expected to respond with "creativity and adaptability" to a very real crises?