Tell me what you think of this--it's my paper for my Western Civ class

[Arkana]

"In the 20th century, the West saw two World Wars that dwarfed anything previous in terms of destructiveness and human suffering. Moreover, in the 1990s there was once again genocide in Europe (Bosnia) as well as, for example, Africa (Rwanda). Have the Enlightenment ideals of universal equality and freedom, progress through science, and elevation of reason over tradition and religion failed or proved themselves illusory? Is there any reason to believe that if we continue to subscribe to these ideals that the 21st century will be any better than the 20th? If not, is there any alternative to the Enlightenment ideal? Back up your answer(s) to these questions with evidence and argument. Do not just say things like "Freedom is on the march" or such.

I think I'm going to enjoy writing this...any ideas where I could start?

[datasuspect]

1. kick

i'd say enlightenment ideals have largely been ignored in the face of rampant consumerism and capitalism. identity is reducible to a commodity and the market imperative seeks its own perpetuation, so that wars are largely the result of companies/governments seeking to control markets and people.

maybe?

dunno. it is an interesting topic though good luck.

hope everybody else can stop talking about kittens long enough to not let your post drop like a stone.

[Arkana]

2. Thanks--for the idea and the kick

[datasuspect]

3. no prob - here's another kick

any chance you might be sharing the finished product?

[Arkana]

4. When I get it written--that's Easter break's project

but if I think it's good, I'll share.

[RedCloud]

5. BFEE versus enlightenment.

Maybe you could start there!