Thanks Linda!
Honestly, I don't see this as hippy-dippy-ish. Then again, maybe living ten miles from Woodstock makes me immune to that sort of thing.
Not only is technology making us more aware, I truly believe that people are simply becoming more "in touch" with their true selves and that they are more and more willing to stand up for what they know in their hearts is "right." I guess I'm idealistic, but I truly believe that most people are good at their core.
One of the things we were discussing in one of the sexism threads is that we would all benefit from assessing society's expectations of us (specifically with regard to gender roles - but it applies to race, religion, nationality etc as well.) After looking at these societal "expectations," we should dismiss those things which go against our core humanity and just strive to be more human. Who needs some antiquated concepts and beliefs (many of which are in place to benefit those in power,) defining who we are "supposed" to be? They are bad for the individual and for society as well.
I really sense that Dave is saying something similar.
I particularly agree with his comment about using "positive imagination and creativity" to "truly change the world for the better." This is a factor that has played into most of my Psych papers in school and my Professors seem to love the perspective. I truly believe that creative people are the ones who enrich our lives and world the most, and it's a shame that many artists live and die in poverty. To every person who has followed her/his dream in trying to make the world a better place, even if it meant sacrificing financial security, I offer a hearty "thank you" and hope that society will wake up some day, recognize every person for his or her cotribution to that society (even if they aren't wealthy businesspeople) and starts taking care of one another.
I guess I have a hippie mindset after all, don't I?