Why does a population of 9 billion allow itself to be enslaved by a handful of tyrannical despots?
As we hurtle collectively towards oblivion, the saner among us might plan a happier and safer future – just in case the world doesn’t end anytime soon.
Nothing short of revolution is needed. Not the typical bloody violence which has always led to domination by vicious Brobdingnagians – but a measured, just and peaceful regime change which ensures equality and that humanity can no longer be dominated by monsters.
The first change I would recommend is that we agree to drastically reduce the world population by encouraging a lower rate of human reproduction. Not that such a reduction will reduce tyranny – but it may well deal a much needed death blow to the hideous bloat of capitalism and consumerism and at least ensure a return to a world of natural beauty and a balanced ecology.
Capitalism ( or at least the evil it has created) is far from new. It is merely the latest incarnation of human greed and domination spawned by the industrial revolution. Prior to capitalism we had economic and political systems every bit as beastly as we have today – its just that they did not thrive by shoving useless junk down our throats. Think back over history and you will find the same scenario repeated infinitely and repetitively over time. Domination by the minority who have the energy, enthusiasm and malign desire to grab power and or wealth (or even better both) by robbery and violence.
The so-called nobility and royalty of nations and states throughout the world have been led by thugs out to enrich themselves. Same for chieftains – a lesser species of noble. Remember the kindly African chieftains who sold their people to the slave trade. Yes, it is true that order was often created where chaos had previously existed (a claim often made for empires of the past) but order does not have to come from despotism or a ruling class.
An entirely new system of governance and economy needs putting into place where the concept of equality is put harmoniously into practice. Democracy as it stands seems to need a fair bit of amending – perhaps a more decentralised model allowing all subjects to vote on more matters of concern – as in Switzerland. Rather than a small cadre of representatives voting on our behalf in a narrow two party system.
As for the economy, control of resources should pass to the population as a whole rather than allow it to be amassed into a few hands controlling everything.
Resources in the broadest sense. Land, air, water, transport, money.
Super-intelligence may perhaps usher in an era of super abundance but if it remains under the control of a small band of self important tech “barons”, the benefit will remain mostly theirs. And the vast majority may find themselves in a worse position than ever before.
Of course, I do not mean in this brief essay to set out any blueprint. Merely broad principles. Human society sucks for the underdog and always has.
Time for profound and lasting change.
