for all of the terrible things that humans have done over the years, it's hard to not be amazed and proud of humankind for all of the advancements made over the years. consider telescopes that allow us to see far into our cosmos, giving us fantastic pictures of the vastness of the universe of which we are a part. it's awe-inspiring, and the ability to do that makes me feel as if there is much good to be had in this world despite the pessimists who think all humans are rotten.

There are clearly many amazing achievements made by humankind. However to do what we do requires taking advantage of many many resources. Some of these uses are controversial, some not so controversial.

I remember walking through the Roman ruins and being completely amazed at what the Romans built and how much of it has been preserved.

Unfortunately, I also remember reading my history books and being disgusted at what went on in some of those ancient ruins.

so, yes and no?

I saw this topic, and I didn't really know how to respond to it. Individuals have emerged from the mass of humanity who have done great things. Some have had intellectual or creative impulses that distinguish them from the majority. Others have been tested in ways that most of us never will be. Some of us who think of ourselves as ordinary, my show unusual courage at times when it's necessary, but we don't know this about ourselves before the fact. As Carl Sandburg said, "Valor is a gift. Those having it never know for sure whether they have it till the test comes. And those having it in one test never know for sure if they will have it when the next test comes."

So my question is this, is humankind responsible for the greatness of the few who have emerged?

Is all of mankind to blame for the horrors that men have perpetrated against eachother? Does this supersede any other intellectual or creative impulses that men have? There have been several very good books on the psychology of evil that have come out recently. This is one of the best:



And the fact is that some people are transcendently good. How does an Albert Schweitzer come into being?

I am amazed by the potential of humans, and yet I'm disgusted by our actions.

No, I'm not proud.

it amazes me constantly what great heights human beings can reach, especially when pushed. I just watched the Dixie Chicks "shutup and sing" and i think the movie encompassed how i feel about human kind right now. There are people who, in adverse conditions, can become stronger, more compassionate, braver.

and then there are people that i don't understand, like the fans of theirs that started burning cd's and calling them unpatriotic and sending death threats.

there is alot of hatred, bred often out of ignorance, in the world and it hurts me to see it. there are also acts of love and kindness that move me so greatly to tears of joy.

i think as a species, we are very neanderthal and don't even realize how limited we are; i also think we don't often realize the great things we are capable of.

i worry about the stupidity and conformity that i see too often. that scares me for humankind.. but i can only be true to myself and stay aware and present, be the best Theresa (don't mean to sound cliche there, but that's my ultimate truth)

and lasers

I think that God in creating Man somewhat overestimated his ability.
-Oscar Wilde