Two Scenarios

We are on a cusp. The decisions we make, the scenarios we choose in the immediate future lead to two very different worlds.

Of course every decision made leads to a different future. But at a cusp such as the one we are at or on now, the choices lead to starkly different futures, starkly different scenarios. Not just for Americans, but for the entire world and for the human race. Nearly every, if not every, aspect of importance to the way the world is run is hanging on this cusp: The American and world economy, the way America and the world uses military force, human rights, the way the worlds remaining resources are used and distributed, and of course the big one, Climate Change.

The current election in America is symbolic of these scenarios. Though it hardly seems fair to the other 61/2 billion people in the world who don’t get to vote in our election, America’s place as an empire or superpower means that what we decide here will be a huge factor for the future of the entire planet. Especially when it comes to Climate Crisis.

One scenario leads to one kind of world, the other to a starkly different one. Using the symbols of our current election to illustrate these choices, we have a Republican/McCain world scenario and a Democratic/Obama world scenario. In the McCain scenario, an elite,(the rich) in effect a new aristocracy, is empowered and makes the decisions for everyone. Decisions are made for and by the rich, as we are seeing right now with the Republican solution to the current financial ‘crisis.’ International differences and conflicts are dealt with militarily and decided solely in the interests of this aristocracy. The economy is geared towards increasing their power. Everything, including climate crisis and resource allocation is decided on one basis, what is best for them. Barely enough concessions are made to the underclasses of the world to avoid revolt. Human rights, the rights of EVERY human, (such as not being snatched off the street and detained indefinitely and tortured)that have been fought for throughout history are subjugated to the needs and concerns of the rich, the new aristocracy. A return, in essence, to feudalism.

In the other scenario, democracy is once again valued, if not restored/established immediately. Decisions are made and policies are instituted on the principles of equality, freedom and justice for all. The economy is not a play thing for the rich, but is designed to eliminate mass poverty and hunger. Resources are allocated based on need and efficiency. Conflict is resolved through diplomacy, and if absolutely necessary true international military coalition. Human rights, including the right of Self-Determination (as represented by democracy) are valued above the interests and influence of wealth. Industry is managed for the health of the planet and new clean energy sources are given the absolute top priority in public policy. Transparency in the decision making process is paramount and the public/citizenry has real input. The free flow of information and access to communication technology is a right. As is health care and basic subsistence.

The current election will not….by itself….bring either of the scenarios into being, again it is a symbol of these two scenarios. But we are now a planet, not a collection of nation states, whether the nation states wish to admit or not. That changes everything. We need to think about, appreciate, and address these changes. Not just out of principles like human rights, democracy and self-determination, but because those principles lead to a better world for all people, not just the most ‘fortunate’ of the world and our nation. This is the difference between pure self interest and enlightened self interest. In one scenario, the self interest of the rich is the dominant paradigm, leading to eternal struggle for dominance among men and nation states.

In the other scenario, we (eventually) learn to cooperate, learn that taking care of everyone ELSE is in our (and our planets) self interest and benefits everyone. Including our self and our families.

Right now the rich and powerful are making a fairly damn blatant bid to determine which scenario we follow. All that stands between their scenario and the one we would prefer is…..us. Whoever the hell that is!