Friday, October 06, 2006

Interlude: Dark Ages America Part-12

Continued from Part-11.

15a. As I previously noted, Berman does not really discuss conditions during a so-called Dark Age. His Previous Book is a better place to look. He sees parallels with the historical period after which the term is named. Falling empires are one thing, but their aftermath is something else. One difference I can see would be due to instant communications. People tying to survive might have little use for culture, but information is another matter. Also, what if some areas of the globe were untouched. Might these not attempt to influence and draw in those outside?

15b. Berman also appears to believe the end of national government would mean the end of the United States. Absent federal influence (and corruption), the nation's nature might change or split. It does not mean the end of civilization.

15c. Of course, judging from the current state of stupidity, Berman may be exactly correct. Perhaps decadent western civilization has become pointless. Something stronger will take its place. We might witness a Dark Age, but it could be significantly shorter than its predecessor.

15d. Lastly, if one is aware and mentally prepared, one can be prepared to keep the peace oneself by refusing to fall into insanity, and by example lift a few others in the process. If no one else may maintain even a minimum standard of order, then one will need to do so oneself. The important part is remembering what one is. Else, one is lost. Berman is completely correct on that account.

Next.

No comments: