Worldwide Pessimism

In the United States there is widespread pessimism on all sides of the political spectrum. America has lost its way. To quote Paul Krugman, “All vision of a better future seems to have been lost, replaced with a refusal to look beyond the narrowest, most shortsighted notion of self-interest.” There are more people excluded from the health care system every year, handgun ownership continues to skyrocket, and the middle class is disintegrating. Obesity is increasing worldwide, as are diseases which are resistant to antibiotics. The generation getting out of school right now has far fewer opportunities than their parents did. The American Dream is fading; and suddenly it all seems to be happening quite rapidly.

Worldwide religious extremism and terrorism are on the rise. Even the more conventional and middle of the road churches, like the Christian Catholic church, are following a path of blind self destruction through sexual molestation of their youth, disabled, and less fortunate parishioners. Greed and a purely self centered view are becoming the norm. Alcoholism and drug addiction are increasing; altruism is frequently laughed or scoffed at.

When talking about climate change each country has spoken lofty words in public, while at home not doing much at all. Global warming and climate change now appear to be completely unstoppable and inevitable.

Mankind seems to be sliding down a chute of negativity. I wish I could paint some kind of an optimistic solution at this point. But I cannot.

I'm thankful that my own personal life mostly took place back when people believed both that a better future was possible and and that it was coming. I have been very fortunate to have led the life I have. It is a little sad to see this period coming to an end however.

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