1. Gathering Storm
Problem of extreme polarization is a serious gathering storm. Human mind is almost wired to go to extremes.
Problem of extreme polarization is a serious gathering storm. Human mind is almost wired to go to extremes.
2. It takes a lot of personal and societal discipline to stay balanced and centered.
3. Social institutions, rather than exemplifying and inculcating wholesome restraint against excess, seem hellbent on inciting the opposite.
4. It is not the unfettered and untethered self-expression on a monumental scale that builds and sustains civilizations. Self-restraint and delayed gratification in the face of ubiquitous provocations and temptations is foundational to great civilizations.
5. Real progress can be achieved only when our powerful social institutions exemplify and amplify that.
6. Unfortunately, our polarized and polarizing institutions, aided and abetted by technological advances which enable instant communications on social media and such, are hurtling mindlessly in the opposite direction.
7. Tribalistic peer praise is lavished upon the most cutting political snark. Thoughtful discourse has all but disappeared from the public square, and is fast disappearing even in institutions of higher education.
8. Mindless edginess is all the rage now. Oh that, and virtue signalling which is anything but virtuous.
9. One can only hope, perhaps in vain, that it will run its course and people will come to their senses before it's too late.
10. When the end to Western Civilization comes, it won't be through war, or some natural calamity. The end is more likely to come from our utter inability to engage in a respectful and thoughtful dialogue with each other.
The END
The END
