[Martian]

Sadly, IMNSHO, we are moving into a period of anti-science. Spreading false information both intentionally and unintentionally is growing.

I believe this is one more symptom of overpopulation - other symptoms are climate change, spreading diseases (pandemics), starvation, war, rebellions, economic collapse, etc etc.

This is not my opinion personally, but the findings of the Pentagon over the past 20 years.

The Pentagons national/world security situation report to the President has for decades pointed to climate change and oil shortages as the top two causes of instability (war and rebellions) around the world. Add to that scientist's warnings that viruses have been mutating and represent a major (existential) threat because of overpopulation and constantly increasing mobility (planes, trains, and boats) proving easy and fast mechanisms for the viruses to spread, and we have the brewing of a perfect storm.

I do NOT believe the viruses have to result in an economic meltdown (global depression).

I believe that people's fear of the viruses, fed by disinformation, mixed messages, constantly failing to keep promises made, etc. will lead to a breakdown in the trust of the government. Democracy can ONLY work as long as the people believe in and trust the government and each other. And the collapse of trust in the government and a solution will drive the economy into depression. If the US does fall into a depression, the world will soon follow.

Everything we see happening today is driving us down the path of hating each other and the government. It's almost as if a sworn enemy is trying to destroy the US from within by causing us to hate each other - so that instead of working together to solve our problems, we spend all our time calling each other naming and spreading lies.

What is going to happen? I don't know, it depends.

I personally believe that unless a charismatic leader shows up that can unify most of us, this country's position as the world leader will be coming to an end. Unless we stop hating each other and try to find common ground to work together, we will fail.

I believe that Russia (Putin) would love to see that happen and is working hard to bring it about. But I think the actual next global power will be China.

I don't want it, I just believe it.