Introduction: The Perpetuation of Division
In contemporary society, division permeates every aspect of life. The age-old strategy of “divide and conquer,” effectively utilized throughout history, remains a powerful tool in the 21st century. Today, we find ourselves divided politically, socially, economically, and ideologically—divisions that are not accidental but are, in fact, carefully orchestrated and nurtured by those who benefit from our disunity.
The Dominant Western Paradigm: Materialism and Individualism
For over four centuries, the dominant worldview in the West has been one of materialism and individualism. This perspective positions humans as separate entities, standing apart from the material world of objects and life forms. Within this paradigm, human interaction is framed through the lens of independence, where individuals engage with others on their own terms, as isolated actors. This worldview has shaped not only the sciences but also the philosophical, sociological, psychological, and educational frameworks that have guided Western thought for centuries.
The American Myth of Rugged Individualism
Particularly in the American context, the concept of rugged individualism forms the bedrock of the national identity. Historical figures such as mountain men, pioneers heading west, and iconic heroes like Jim Bridger, Davy Crockett, and John Wayne are celebrated as embodiments of the American spirit—individuals who overcame insurmountable odds through sheer will and perseverance. However, this glorification of individualism, while culturally significant, has come at a substantial cost.
The Illusion of Unity: Nationalism, Race, Ethnicity, Gender, and Religion
In modern society, nationalism, race, ethnicity, gender, and religion are often celebrated, sometimes with noble intentions. However, as the adage suggests, “the road to hell is paved with good intentions.” Mystics and philosophers across traditions have long emphasized the reality of interconnectedness rather than separation. The mantra “We are all one” echoes through the teachings of every major spiritual tradition, suggesting that the well-being of the individual is inextricably linked to the well-being of the collective. Yet, the Western mindset has often struggled to internalize this truth. The idea that “an injury to one is an injury to all” remains difficult to grasp.
Historical Conflicts and the Reinforcement of Division
Historically, civilizations have worshiped gods of war, using violence to impose their will on others. Nations, races, and religions have fought, killed, and died in the name of power, dominance, and faith. The narratives surrounding these conflicts are shaped by perspective, reinforcing division rather than unity. A prime example is the Battle of the Little Bighorn, remembered as a massacre by white Americans and a victory by Native Americans. Each side tells a story that serves its interests, reinforcing historical and cultural divides.
21st Century Division: Manipulation and Fragmentation
In the 21st century, divisions are more entrenched than ever. Both in America and globally, we are fractured along lines of wealth, politics, philosophy, religion, and education. Professional propagandists, behavioral psychologists, and the mainstream media skillfully manipulate these divisions for personal and institutional gain. Groups, political parties, and movements are increasingly formed not around shared values, but as reactions to perceived threats—whether to rights, freedoms, resources, or identity.
The Psychology of Victimization and Manipulation
Once individuals perceive themselves as victims, they become highly susceptible to manipulation. They can be convinced to adopt any belief, sacrifice any value, and conform to any ideology to regain what they believe has been lost. This manipulation is alarmingly effective, with society frequently falling for familiar lies and half-truths, following the crowd like cattle to the feed truck, oblivious to who is driving.
Distractions from the Real Issues: Economic and Educational Failures
As we focus on issues such as illegal immigration—fearing that jobs and resources are being stolen by outsiders—the wealthiest individuals, the top 0.1%, continue to accumulate wealth at the expense of the general population. While debates rage over whether the Ten Commandments should be displayed in courthouses, critical manufacturing quietly relocates to China. As public concern grows over the absence of prayer in schools, the U.S. public education system languishes in crisis. American students now rank significantly lower than their peers in other industrialized countries in key areas such as reading, math, and science.
The Myth of National Greatness and Declining Metrics
Our high school diplomas have diminished in value, serving only as evidence that students have survived the violence, bullying, and disarray long enough to graduate. Meanwhile, the more significant, systemic issues facing education and youth remain unaddressed. As a society, we argue over restoring prayer in classrooms, but we ignore the deeper crises that leave so many young people without a future.
We are constantly fed the myth that America is the greatest nation on earth. However, by nearly every measurable standard—save incarceration rates and gun violence—the country lags behind its global counterparts. Our prisons are overflowing, and our streets are rife with violence, yet we are told to believe that capitalism, nationalism, patriotism, and Christianity are inseparable. To question any one of these is perceived as a challenge to all. This same myth applies to alliances such as NATO, where any dissent is treated as treasonous.
The Failures of Capitalism and Growing Inequality
While capitalism has undoubtedly produced unprecedented material wealth in the United States, it has also resulted in glaring inequality. One in four American families lives in poverty, and across the globe, millions of people survive on mere pennies a day. Our national debt is astronomical, driven largely by military expenditures that exceed the combined spending of the next ten nations. Yet, the public is led to believe that social programs are the true financial burden.
The Disconnect Between Churches and the Suffering World
Our religious institutions, too, have become insulated from the world’s suffering. Many churches are housed in massive, state-of-the-art buildings, complete with gymnasiums and coffee bars, while hundreds of thousands of people sleep beneath bridges. Suicide rates among young people continue to rise, while church youth groups focus on mission trips abroad, memorizing Bible verses, and recreational activities. It is easier, after all, to raise money for a mission trip to a foreign country than to address the drug addiction and despair in our own neighborhoods.
Science as the New Religion and the Pursuit of Technological Solutions
In contemporary American society, science has become the state religion, with technology as its theology. We look to science to explain the world, cure diseases, find love, change our bodies, entertain us, and solve our problems. From gene editing to artificial intelligence, technology is seen as the ultimate solution to everything. Meanwhile, we continue to abuse one another, traffic our children, wage wars, and destroy the environment in pursuit of material goods.
A Runaway Train: The Need for a New Paradigm
We are hurtling toward destruction on a runaway train, while the ultra-wealthy plan their escapes, whether to Mars or to underground bunkers in New Zealand. Traditional solutions have failed us, and we have reached a point of no return. A new paradigm is urgently needed.
The Call for a New Way of Thinking: Compassion and Unity
We cannot save ourselves through the same methods that brought us to this precipice. It is time to embrace a new way of thinking—one that recognizes our interconnectedness, that prioritizes compassion over competition, and that seeks justice through unity rather than division.
Conclusion: A Shared Future for Humanity
The world is changing, and we must change with it. We can no longer look to the past for answers but must instead seek new ways to move forward together, as one people, sharing one planet, united by one truth: we are all in this together.
The old paradigms of division, conquest, and individualism must give way to a new vision of shared humanity. Only through this new lens can we hope to address the challenges that confront us and build a future in which all can thrive.