Developing A Universal Religion/Why Bother?/Summary

So, why bother? Because the media and globalization—if nothing else[1]—is forcing us to improve the way we think and act. Because we cannot continue indefinitely arguing and fighting among ourselves. What better time to stop and think about all we have endured, experienced and learned during these past millennia than now—now, at the beginning of a new millennium, and before we travel too far in the wrong direction. Now, now that we realize just how completely our minds shape all of our thoughts and actions.

Consider our new-found abilities—what might not be possible in just a few years? Our future can be wonderful, exciting and long, or it could be frightening, aimless and uncertain. The difference is simply a matter of taking the time to think, choosing a sensible direction to follow, and planning a path forward. We have gained the ability to think rationally. We have cultivated the intellect to discover the properties of matter and energy that open so many opportunities to us. And we are developing the technology that will allow us to colonize the planets, one that may later take us to the stars. The power and ability to control being unleashed by our increasing understanding appears to be unlimited. The choice of future is ours, and we are being asked to make it now. We can do nothing, and humanity may wither and die. Or we can unite in purpose and action, and humanity may flourish in ways it never has before.


Footnotes edit

  1. Although computers may be having an equal or greater effect on the way we think and act. Successful computer operation entails learning new concepts and methods to solve the many minor problems that inevitably turn up. Tackling these challenges trains the mind to think logically (since all software has been logically developed). Moreover, computers connect individuals and ideas—ideas that may be very different from one country to another. Different ideas in a logical mind need reconciling, and new mental constructs and behaviours may develop.