A Brief Look at Human Progress

Two significant themes emerge from Umair’s writing: the yearning for human advancement and enlightenment, alongside the profound sorrow stemming from the painfully slow pace of progress and awakening. At times, it feels as if we are regressing rather than advancing.

Consider my earlier statement about the global dominance of power abuse that crushes our humanity and the environment. This alarming observation aligns with Umair’s insights regarding power structures and the resistance to change exhibited by those in authority, who are unwilling to relinquish or even alter their power.

These reflections correspond with the title of this article: “Understanding the World: The Dilemma of a Cruel Minority.” This may encapsulate the core issues we confront. Throughout history, the story of humanity has often been one of oppression and exploitation by a merciless few.

The chronicles of humanity are filled with wars, conquests, genocides, and systemic oppression. Only in recent centuries—specifically the last 250 years—have there been notable efforts to break this cycle. For a while, particularly post-World War II into the early 2000s, it appeared as though society was moving toward a more democratic and just world—a phoenix rising from the ashes.

The Decline of Our 'Progress'

However, this perceived progress began to unravel rather quickly. What transpired? The period from 1945 to 2000 may have been an anomaly, a product of various post-war initiatives and policies. During that time, the world appeared to be steadily heading toward enhanced democracy and global cooperation.

Then came pivotal events: 9/11, the ‘War on Terror,’ and the Great Recession, followed by rising authoritarianism, the emergence of leaders like Donald Trump, the global pandemic, and ongoing conflicts such as the war in Ukraine and Israel’s actions in Gaza. Now, the fate of democracy globally hangs in a precarious balance, with elections looming in many nations.

In recent years, we have witnessed a tumultuous upheaval in global affairs.

The Iron Grip of the Sociopathic Minority

Yet, amid this chaos, one constant remains: the firm grasp of a small group of ruthless sociopaths who effectively govern our world. An old adage about capitalism comes to mind: capitalists profit in both peace and war. To a sociopath, both scenarios are advantageous for exploiting society.

For a time, this sociopathic elite seemed to accept a degree of democracy and fairness, but around 2010, they began a crackdown. Progress was challenged and often reversed, and we are now witnessing this trend accelerate globally, especially in the U.S.

The blatant dominance of sociopaths is now unmistakable. Figures like Donald Trump, Vladimir Putin, and war-mongering leaders show us that their sociopathic tendencies are glaringly apparent.

Identifying Sociopathic Traits

The primary beneficiaries of this situation are the sociopaths in power, while ordinary citizens and society at large bear the brunt of their indifference. These sociopathic elites disregard the values most of us cherish and are uninterested in fostering the social goods essential for a healthy society.

They exhibit a complete lack of empathy and morality, driven solely by self-interest. Sociopaths show no concern for societal well-being, loyalty, or communal ties; their only loyalty is to personal gain.

The Sociopathic Influence on Society

With these sociopaths steering the ship, our meager attempts at progress were doomed from the start. Their influence is evident in numerous facets of modern civilization: the rise of the billionaire class, the military-industrial complex, and the manipulation of public perception regarding climate change and other pressing issues.

The harsh reality is that these ruthless individuals have consistently driven the narrative, finding new ways to maintain and expand their control. As Umair notes, these power-hungry figures are not inclined to relinquish their hold.

The Struggles of Visionaries and Progressives

This brings us back to the dilemma faced by progressives: In light of our ongoing failures, how do we continue our efforts without succumbing to despair? How can we retain hope for humanity's future?

Another pressing question arises: If this minority truly is a small faction, how do they sustain their control? How do they keep the majority from rising against them, as the French did during their revolution?

The answer lies in their strategy of keeping the masses uninformed and misdirected, directing anger and anxiety toward marginalized groups rather than the true oppressors. They manipulate the media, education, and public discourse to promote their narratives and maintain division.

Essentially, their strategy boils down to a simple misdirection: "Look here, then there—just don’t look at us!" Unfortunately, this tactic is alarmingly effective, leading many to accept their manipulations as reality.

Enslavement Through Compliance

As a result, the majority of humanity becomes complicit in their own oppression, unconsciously supporting the very systems that bind them. We become trapped in a cycle of ignorance, complacency, and a desire for comfort, ultimately enabling our own subjugation.

The fundamental challenge lies within us: our unconsciousness and our willingness to remain so. The stark truth is that many seem content with their oppression, provided they can cling to some semblance of comfort and safety.

Thus, we—those who foresee the troubling reality—are ensnared in a web of illusion and misplaced hope. We can shout our truths from the rooftops, but until humanity chooses to awaken and unite against oppression, our efforts may be in vain.

Confronting the Hard Truth

Perhaps our only recourse is to accept this painful reality about humanity. If we can genuinely embrace the current state of affairs, we might discover new, detached ways to foster healing, growth, and genuine freedom.

However, achieving true detachment is a daunting challenge, likely to keep us in the minority, with the path forward fraught with obstacles.

To Umair and all progressive thinkers, I assert: WE are not failing. We are striving to educate, inspire, and uplift humanity. The issue lies not with us, but with the collective failure of humanity to rise to the occasion.