Re: David Mathias’s letter to the editor of the Advocate of Aug 18.
I think David’s views succinctly describe some of the most important realities of the world we live in. His opinions, I believe, are shared by many others.
Unfortunately and inevitably, because of the success of agriculture, humans have become, in only 10,000 years, the only that which can manipulate and upset natural forces of equilibrium to our ultimate advantage and disadvantage.
Civilization on Earth is fragile and there is an end game to our current direction.
At some time, likely in this century, major corrections will occur and they will be determined largely by natural law.
We, our leaders, thinkers, decision makers cannot successfully fashion a world that is exceptionally fair, equitable, peaceful and prosperous for all because of our human nature.
Our prime motivations are simple: individual survival first; competition; pleasure; wants over needs; more is better; consumption; short-term goals; attraction to the dark side; etc.
I’m sure we will continue to strive for a better world and I believe “the light” will prevail, but civilization will become vastly different in the 21st century and our young people are our main hope for the future.
Another perspective on these issues can be found in Daniel Quinn’s exceptional book Ishmael.
Kieran Lang
Red Deer