Humanity has come to dominate the Earth for many reasons. We are robust, intelligent, industrious, cooperative, fecund, and have invented adaptive means to meet many difficulties. While we have been exceedingly successful on the individual and tribal levels, the collective impacts of seven billion people have taken a dark turn summarized in this unresolved conundrum: what is best for the individual is no longer best for everyone. Unfortunately, the institutions of democracy and capitalism have grown rigid and partisan, unable to constructively respond to current crises. The crux of the problem lies not with institutions, but ultimately in the flaws of individuals. Society is a reflection of culture, culture is a reflection of beliefs, and beliefs reflect our deepest needs and wants as human beings. If we are to change our fate, we must begin by changing ourselves: we need a better human.
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