12.31.02006 Muddling our way towards happiness

As this portentous year draws to a close, many are tempted to forecast a coming new utopia -- or unimaginable new hells. Both outcomes are unlikely. Instead, humankind will do what it has always done, namely muddle its way forward. I am thus a short-term pessimist, but a long-term optimist when it comes to the future. More at 2007 Edge Question.