The Human Project is an interesting concept. As Jackson
mentions in his lectures the concept of a “we” encompassing all humans would be
very difficult to develop. Jackson states that in order to effectively have
this group mentality it is easier when facing an “us” vs “them” and
not simply a problem we are all trying to resolve. However, perhaps the
problems humanity is facing now such as: global warming, lack of water, lack of
food, decline in fossil fuels, and diseases are simply not catastrophic enough.
Indeed it is simpler to unite people when there is an enemy,
solidifying the “us” and the “them”. However, if something truly catastrophic
happened humanity would potentially be left with no option but to develop one
large group – humans. We see this on a smaller scale now a days. When there is
a catastrophic event somewhere, particularly if it somehow affects another
nation, that nation sends help. When there are tsunamis, hurricanes or even
plane crashes many nations rally together with monetary, man power and other
forms of support. These are temporary, smaller scale events, but they do show
some global unity.
This is not to say this human project will definitely happen
or would not be met with serious resistance. This is simply to state that it is
possible, depending on the circumstances for this pale blue dot to unite as
one. Some of Jackson’s other alternatives such as new hegemonic institutions or
a global constitutional moment are also plausible. Although even
then, hegemonic institutions seems more likely where there is a union based on
some benefits received for participating in these institutions. Whereas, a
global constitutional consensus where instead of violence there is a
constitutional reframing. Some might argue that there will be violence, nations
not wanting to lose their autonomy or control. All three scenarios are
difficult to envision as they would involve an extremely drastic shift in an
environment that has been relatively stable for most of our lifetimes. As
Jackson reflects on the difference between predicting the future and forecasting in the beginning of his lecture, we may not be able to predict
what will happen in the future, but having an idea of these potential scenarios
can help us better prepare.
Olivia, I agree. Forecasting possible scenarios is probably the best way to prepare us for what will come in the future. As history has shown though, sometimes these predictions are inaccurate and sometimes they are just limited in options for action. I am interested to see what will or could bring together the human race as a cohesive group, yet at the same time I hope it does not happen in our lifetime. Something like that would require a large-scale catastrophic event or alien invasion.
ReplyDeleteOlivia, I also believe it doesn't always have to be an "us vs. them" type of situation in order for humans from around the world to unite. Natural disasters have certainly had the capability to unite people from all corners of the globe. However, it's interesting that the global population doesn't seem to be able to unite quite as effectively when trying to prevent a crisis from occurring. I guess its more of a psychological thing to analyze why people are better at uniting in response to a situation which already occurred than working to prevent it in the first place.
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