Becoming part of the solution

4 minute read/listen.

Tom Campbell questions in his book whether humanity’s traditional approach of stumbling blindly into the future will work in the face of increasing power to make history-wrenching changes. He highlight’s that power is a double-edged sword and that knowledge is power. As we pursue various high-potential adventures, the author asks if our wisdom is growing as quickly as our knowledge and power.

The decisions we make in these critical times will alter the course of humanity for centuries to come. He urges individuals to be ready to negotiate the curves and be part of the solution, as big decisions always turn on the knowledge and wisdom of ordinary people.

‘Humanity has successfully used the strategy of stumbling more or less blindly into the future for thousands of years. Will this approach continue to work as our power to implement history-wrenching change accelerates dramatically?

Power is a two edged sword. It can cut for better or for worse, depending on the wisdom guiding the blade. Knowledge is power. With every major discovery the stakes grow increasingly higher. Do you think the wisdom of our species has been growing as quickly as our knowledge and power? 

I am not talking only about computers here. They are but one of several high potential adventures that we as a species are energetically pursuing. Great opportunity usually travels hand in hand with great risk. 

You have the good fortune to be living in one of those critical times when history is balanced precariously on the edge. We and our children will be led to the brink experiencing watershed events and making momentous decisions that will alter the course of humanity for centuries to come. Will our institutions and leaders be ready to meet that challenge? Will you be ready to meet the challenge and help negotiate the curves, or simply ready to deal with whatever happens? Or will you, like the majority of your species, be caught unaware – frozen by the glare of the oncoming headlights? 

Once the roller coaster is pushed over the edge, you are committed to ride it to its final conclusion. Contrary to popular belief, big decisions always turn on the knowledge and wisdom of ordinary individuals. In the end, it is the ordinary people who must consent to follow their leaders. No great mischief is likely to be committed by leaders without a following. The people and their leaders invariably get what they deserve. You are in a position to make a difference. Is your plan to hope for the best, or are you part of the solution? ‘

Tom Campbell