Daniel Pinchbeck
ɶ If the human species wants to survive, the civilization that replaces this one is going to have a different set of values and a revamped operating system. is that science has ignored some crucial factors. One is the possibility that human beings, through an evolution of consciousness, could develop a regenerative culture that contributes to the health of the biosphere. In the 1960s, the design scientist Buckminster Fuller proposed that society could be redesigned to be “comprehensively successful” for everyone on earth. In the short term, we could become far more flexible and resilient, instituting a global program that re-localizes basic essentials, such as growing food, producing energy, making clothes and shelter, while liberating knowledge as a free resource and commonwealth. We could replace money, as a basic instrument, by new systems for exchanging value that support collaboration and trust over competition and self-interest. The possibility for a rapid regeneration of human culture is predicated on a great awakening happening quickly – before ecological meltdown leads to systemic breakdown. Spiritual realization needs to be integrated with social commitment and direct action. Since the biosphere is now directly threatened by our post-industrial civilization, retreat from society is no longer possible or desirable. Our current culture enshrines irresponsibility greed and waste. If the human species wants to survive, the civilization that replaces this one is going to have a different set of values and a revamped operating system. While it is conceivable that 2012 may see some sudden shift in human consciousness or an alien landing on the White House lawn, it is more possible that we have a much longer struggle ahead of us. In that case, the w w w.commonground.ca
end of the Long Count may still be significant as the hinge of a transition in our species’ awareness. An ever-growing segment of humanity is becoming conscious of the culture of domination that has degraded the biosphere, annihilated local cultures, and locked us in a prison of constricted awareness. As more and more of us realize this, we will unify our inten-
much and met “I learned so ful friends.” so many wonder
SPIRIT
tion to undertake the difficult work of superseding it. j
Daniel Pinchbeck is author of 2012: The Return of Quetzalcoatl (Tarcher/Penguin, 2006) and Breaking Open the Head (Broadway Books, 2002) and editorial director of www.realitysandwich.com. He appears in the film 2012: Time for Change which is available for purchase at www.2012timeforchange.com
Hay House, Inc. proudly presents
Angeles, CA —K.M., Los
VA N C O U V E R March 12 - 13, 2011 Queen Elizabeth Theatre
LOUISE L. HAY
8 Keynote Lectures from your favorite Hay House Authors and opening remarks from Louise L. Hay!
DR. WAYNE W. DYER
MARIANNE WILLIAMSON
GENEEN ROTH
DOREEN VIRTUE
BRIAN L. WEISS, M.D.
CAROLINE MYSS
ROBERT HOLDEN
CHERYL RICHARDSON
The ultimate weekend retreat for your mind, body, and soul
“The workshops beyond my expect were ations.” –M.M., Perris, CA
Register Early – Seats are Limited! Call 800-654-5126 or visit www.icandoit.net www.hayhouse.com® www.healyourlife.com®
J a n u a r y 2 0 11
common ground
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