If you randomly surveyed ten Americans and asked whether they were pessimistic or optimistic about the future, I’m willing to bet a month’s salary that at least 60% would say pessimistic. The specific reasons for that pessimism would vary. Our schools are crumbling. Our morals are disintegrating. People want to kill us. Indeed, a quick scan of the daily news offers ample persuasion for staying in bed and watching endless reruns of Good Times.
While we may have plenty to feel glum about, the deep thinkers at the Edge Foundation want to remind everyone it’s okay to have a little hope. It asked dozens of scientists, academicians, writers, and policy wonks to name one thing about which they are optimistic. Their answers span the range of human knowledge and endeavor. An emerging boom in the development of green technology. Falling levels of global violence. The decline of religious fanaticism. Whether you agree with the answers or not, these mini-essays provide fascinating reading.
As for me, I’m optimistic that we’ll have universal health care in the next two decades, and it will likely be single-payer. Big corporations are starting to realize that our current patchwork health care system is a drag on both their profitability and the economy. Eventually, the political will necessary to break the chokehold of the insurance companies will push lawmakers to a comprehensive and lasting solution.
I’m Canadian and I would not part with my universal healthcare for the world. Our system is not perfect but I never have to worry about whether I have enough money to take care of my children’s medical needs.