Give or Take: The Challenge of the 21st Century An Examination of Social Dynamics, Productivity, and Civilization Introduction In the 21st century, societies across the globe are grappling with a fundamental tension between those who contribute to the collective good ("givers") and those who depend on the system for support ("takers"). With nearly half the population either employed by the government or receiving some form of entitlement, concerns arise that the balance may be tipping unfavorably, putting societal progress at risk. The Roots of Giving and Taking From infancy, humans experiment with the act of giving and taking. A simple interaction—offering and pulling away an object—illustrates a basic human behavior that shapes early development. This fundamental process not only influences individual growth but has also contributed to the evolution of the human species. The dynamic between giving and taking is, therefore, deeply embedded in our nature. The Rol...
Retired physician and air taxi operator, science writer and part time assistant professor, these editorials cover a wide range of topics. Mostly non political, mostly true, I write more from a lifetime of experience and from research, more science than convention. Subjects cover medicine, Alaska aviation, economics, technology and an occasional book review. Globalization or Democracy documents the historical roots of Oligarchy, the road to colonialism and tyranny