by Richard Blum

We are witnessing the emergence of a new humanity, in which oneness, love, and peace will prevail. New paradigms are forming that redefine what it means to be human, clarify the true goal of life, offer new ways for humans to interrelate, and illuminate humanity’s position within the cosmos. Although many people are attuned to this monumental transformation, the movement is currently only comprised of a tiny fraction of the world’s population. But today’s small number of buds will soon multiply to form millions of blossoms.

A major shift is absolutely necessary because humanity is trapped in a materialistic, technological world of its own making, one which is on the verge of collapse. Humanity’s advancements are destroying natural habitats. Climate change threatens the continued existence of many species including our own. Social networks meant to unite the world are being used to spread lies and subtly sway individuals’ minds. Younger generations are losing their ability to concentrate and to form healthy relationships, because they are constantly glued to smart phones and controlled by algorithms designed to capture every moment of their attention. Artificial intelligence poses both economic and existential threats. Intelligent machines capable of performing many types of jobs is likely to lead to massive unemployment. Machines that are more intelligent than humans challenge the very notion of what it means to be human. These and other existential challenges prompt the question: What does it mean to be human and what is the purpose of life?

Modern technology has so permeated our lives that it is impossible to live a normal life independent of it. Technologies ranging from electric lights, to televisions, automobiles, computers, and cell phones, have permeated our lives to such an extent that they have become indispensable; one cannot live a normal life in society without possessing them. Other technologies, such as jet planes, satellites, GPS, MRI’s, and modern pharmaceuticals also add tremendous value to our daily existence. At the root of this amazing technological advancement lies scientific knowledge.

Our technological world is based upon science, and one cannot live in this world, use technology and then deny the realities of science. As a result, we believe in things we cannot see or personally understand. We take as fact the existence of molecules, atoms, electrons, and sub-atomic particles, despite the fact the average person has never seen any, nor do they understand the theories and mathematics which govern these particle’s behavior and prove their existence. But because everyone sees and lives with the results of scientific progress, it is next to impossible to deny the truths which science asserts. A great amount of faith is placed in science and technology, even by those who deny particular theories of science for political reasons; even they believe in basic fundamental scientific truths.