What to make of 2006?

I am not a fan of long winded serenades to calander years gone by. It is better to view the world through fixed events rather than artificial things like calander years. Of course, that is not to say 31 December isn't a good excuse to leave the house and stay awake 'til late.

For some time now I've believed that much of what makes the world both a heaven and hell derives from recurring themes. Despite this, every generation seems eager to claim that the latest episode in human development will herald a new age or reflects some major shift. The Bush Presidency is a case in point. The criminal invasion of Iraq is not unprecedented (remember Vietnam... the conquest of the Philippines... and the Spanish-American war which was the United States's very first 'pre-emptive' war). Nor does the slight shift in the Republican balance of power in the American political system (the Democrats now control both houses of the American parliament) represent a major change in American power.

My prism is power, the media that spins this emperor's invisible clothes, and its effects on everyday life. Nothing much within this prism changed during 2006, although yes, it is true, some positive changes did occur. Perhaps the most significant positive development was the increase in popular consciousness of the greenhouse effect, thanks in large part to Al Gore's documentary An inconventient truth. The documentary succeeded where others (such as Fahrenheit 9/11) failed in that it did not insult the audience. Yes An inconvenient truth was a propaganda film. It propagated a certain way of thinking - that we need to radically change our energy consumption lest we end human life on the planet. But it did so basically by informing the viewer, trying to reduce the issues at play, and, in so doing, treated the viewing public as equals. It made us feel like we are a vital ingredient in the recipe for saving the planet. It told us that we are part of the problem and, also, part of the solution. That is a rare message in today's public landscape.

Progressive movements often make the mistake of telling us about injustice or other bad things in a manner that excludes. We are told endless tales of intrigue, greed, fanaticism and outright criminality as though we are but a captive audience who can but only watch and scream and then retire to our sofas or bedrooms. This is far from an inaccurate portrayal, but it is far from totally accurate. Nor is it particularly helpful. Arguably, such messages can do more harm than good. What is needed along with our messages is an emphasis on participation. Every bit does make a difference. Everyone does hold, in their tiny little hand, the seeds of growth and destruction. We, all of us, hold the destiny of humanity in our grasp.

All the best for 2007 one and all! May you meet your challenges with grace and courage and receive your just rewards.