I think the task for this generation is not to overcome the material hurdles placed in their paths, but to redefine what it means to be rich. They, and the world for that matter, can't afford the rampant consumerism of their forebears. They would be better off "regressing" in the material sense, and focusing instead on community, collective assets, and cooperation. If they can do that, they might not only be happier than their parents, but might save the world for their own children too.
A subtle shift in perspective might do everyone a whole lot of good, and the tools at their disposal - near unlimited access to information, social networking, internet publication, idea sharing - might just enable them to do it.
Here's hoping...
|