My vote is for worse as well. It pains me to say it, but I don't see it changing soon.
I figured out long ago that the more I knew, the more I realized how little[/] I knew. I think this is happening in a very subtle manner throughout the world. Science and technology have taken tremendous strides and our learning is increasing at a very rapid rate. People are starting to realize though, that while the knowledge can fill certain voids, it opens others.
Those of us who like to think really appreciate this; it's a dynamic tapestry of discovery. It's a mystery that we all eagerly pursue for the very joy of learning. People argue that Science (intentionally capitalized) doesn't have all the answers. We know that no one in our circles would ever nor has ever made such a ridiculous claim. It's self-correcting. We hypothesize, we test, we amend. That's how it works and it leads us down the river. We don't know where the river leads, but we want to find out.
For some, however, that same lack of conclusion that keeps us going makes them uncomfortable. Many people want science to have the answers, and if no answer is provided post-haste, they retreat into the happy sandbox of empty promises and frolic in their ignorance. They don't want to know that we don't know; they don't want to know that there is no answer right now. They want someone to pat them on the head and promise that everything will be alright.
This is the role of churches, psychics, new age enthusiasts, the media,...well, you get the idea. Seeing this weakness, indeed this thirst for ignorance, lets the leeches like John Edward and Sylvia Browne thrive. The credulous look at them and say to themselves: "See? After I die, things are going to be alright. Someone can contact me and I can send my love."
We know it's the end, they don't want to know.
There is so much in our future to look forward to, so many ways to make this pale blue dot a better place. Unfortunately, I think it may get worse before it gets better. Let's persevere, shall we? They need us.
