There are different ways of describing human history One of the most widely recognized is based on our technologies. Paleolithic, Neolithic, Bronze, Iron etc. are dominant in that ordering. Many other things were going on as well but technology is always a factor to be considered. We claim it as our unique attribute among all species.
Today humanity is entering another technological epoch. That change is forced upon us in part by the consequences of our current technological limitations. Just as the Bronze age gave way to the Iron Age so to will fossil fuels give way to what are now called alternatives. There is however one difference of major significance in that evolutionary process. The rates of change from basic applications to knock on effects to unanticipated consequences are far more rapid than at any previous time in our history. Blindingly so in comparison. What had previously taken centuries now must be done in years
The vast wealth of modern societies and the political power that arises from control of that wealth has been and continues to be gathered into increasingly fewer hands. Oligarchs are the effective rulers of modern societies with a few notable exceptions that are of minimal overall influence. This is also a common factor in human societies.
In The Homeland as in other nations the vast wealth our oligarchy controls is directly and unmistakably wedded to fossil fuels. The practical effect of which means our society is as well. All of it and all of us.
The most basic concept of democracy is the ability society at large holds to temper and when possible ameliorate the excesses of oligarchs. This too is an evolutionary process in human history. It is at least possible when the greater number act in concert.
Today the great wealth of modern societies will necessarily be redistributed as energy production upon which modern society depends enters the new epoch. Redistribution is an unavoidable necessity due to inflexible time constraints imposed by current climate issues.
Our oligarchy is increasingly reluctant to consider much less embrace the facts, realities and necessities of our of our current situation. Their control of society is at immediate risk. Their great accumulations of wealth and therefore power are directly threatened. In turn our oligarchs threaten democracy (which is soundly detested by them) the nation and much of humanity as well. Our oligarchs are intent on holding each and every Citizen hostage to maintain current levels of control. Their political system of choice is,not surprisingly, Fascism. In our case christofascism but still Fascism.
The sacrifice oligarchs demand of Citizens is the abrogation of liberty and rejection of democracy. They are very close to achieving it. Closer than many Citizens are willing to recognize.
This is what we face today.
When Carter addressed the nation in the old prime time days he wore a cardigan as told us we were addicted to oil. He advised us to conserve and pay attention to reality. He had solar water heating panels placed on the White House roof
Then Reagan came along took the panels down and gave Citizens SUVs The message and symbolism was unmistakable
Today Trump with his ties (as symbolic as his coiffure) is loudly “Drill baby Drill”.
What will our response be?