The ability to focus is a crucial asset in a world awash in data that serves no purpose. Censorship is effective because it distracts and misleads the public rather than cutting off their access to information. The book 21 Lessons for the 21st Century is a clear guide through these murky waters, addressing some of the most pressing issues facing the world today.
What went wrong with liberal democracy to cause this crisis? Does God seem to be making a comeback? Will there soon be another global war? Can we draw any conclusions from Trump's success? How do we stop the spread of false information? Western, Chinese, or Islamic culture? Must Europe continue to welcome refugees? Can nationalism be the answer to global warming and poverty? When it comes to terrorism, what steps should we take? How do we know what to teach our children?
There are billions of us, and we all have more important things to do than delve into these mysteries, such as working, raising children, and caring for the elderly. The course of history does not bend, unfortunately. If you let other people decide the fate of humanity while you're busy keeping your family fed and clothed, you and your children will have to live with the results. Whoever said history was fair clearly never lived through this.
While a book can't provide people with food or clothing, it can help clarify complex issues and contribute to a more equitable world. The success of this book will be measured by how many people it inspires to participate in the discussion about our species' long-term viability.