by J.C. Vogen

Created on: November 29, 2008

The world is currently changing at an unprecedented rate as the adaptability of mankind is being challenged. To fully understand this process, it is necessary to examine the catalyst which is driving the exponential change the world is experiencing. When I mention change, I am not referring to an event such as global warming. The concept of change I am referring to is the evolution of mankind's consciousness. Consciousness is the awareness one possesses regarding their existence and the environment in which one lives. Throughout recorded history, we have seen the struggle of man to better understand existence. This process has lead to the formulation of many theories which attempt to explain our role and purpose within this world which we live. As mankind's consciousness has evolved, so too have these explanations of existence. The challenge facing modern man is the ability to expand our consciousness in accordance with the unprecedented rate at which we are coming to a better understanding of our existence.

While it is difficult to keep an optimistic outlook on the state of the world, this is truly an amazing time period to be alive. It is essential to realize the significance of this time period in order to discern where the world is going. For purposes of comparison, assume the theory of evolution is correct. Now imagine the transformation which our primitive ancestors experienced upon realizing the potential of using a stick as a tool.
This one tiny step in discovering a new way to interact with the environment would prove to aid the development of primitive man. Modern day man has come to discover a new and far more significant tool, which less than 100 years ago was unimaginable; the computer.

It is safe to assume that upon discovering the use of a stick as a tool, our ancestors did not instantaneously understand all the applications of this new tool. One example of the adaptation which mankind made with this technology was the sharpening of one end of a stick so the tool could be applied to hunting.
Mankind later would learn to attach sharpened stones to sticks, which provided a stronger point and a more lethal weapon. This process illustrates how mankind continuously evolves the applications of fundamental discoveries, which can then be adapted to better man's quality of life. The essential point is that mankind has only recently discovered this new tool of a computer, and as the applications and insights which result from this new tool change our understanding of the world, we will be challenged to adapt to this new understanding of existence.

Never before has man discovered such a powerful tool which possesses both the potential for great improvement of the quality of life and the potential for destruction of life on a massive scale.
Further insights into our existence will be met with resistance as humanity struggles to leave behind perspectives held for centuries on the nature of our existence. While some will more readily adapt to this new understanding, others may struggle with conflicting belief systems which have defined their existence thus far. As ideology's struggle for self-preservation and consciousness struggles to evolve, it appears only one outcome will be possible. If consciousness across all of mankind manages to evolve, the world may be thrust into a golden age of prosperity as the quality of life reaches imaginable heights. If this proves to not be the case, the outlook is bleak.

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