This is how history happens, through shifts or fractures that may go unnoticed. But they are irreversible.
Roberto Calasso.
We are approaching the first quarter of the 21st century, and in the last 20 years we have experienced major events that have taught us important lessons. Here we present 10 of them, although they are probably not enough. Only time will tell if they are truly transcendental, but we are sure of one thing: they are shocking, and generate both fear and amazement at what is to come. Perhaps that terror is what we need to face the challenges ahead.
1. Computer Terror
The century began with the dreaded “Y2K bug“, which threatened to collapse computer systems. In the end, it turned out to be a false alarm, but it taught us a first lesson: our technological dependence is enormous, and there is no turning back. The current pandemic has shown how vulnerable our hyper-connected world is.
2. ExtremistTerror
The attack on the Twin Towers in 2001 showed us the scope of international terrorism. No country is immune, and globalization ensures that the impact of an attack is felt around the world. The attacks in several countries have taught us the need for greater international cooperation to combat this threat.
3. Informative Terror
Social networks and mass media have proven to be powerful tools for manipulating information. From election interference to the spread of “fake news“, control of the narrative is a dangerous weapon in the wrong hands. The assault on Capitol Hill in 2021 is a clear example of how misinformation can influence reality.
7. Globalized Terror
Problems such as pandemics, climate change and mass migration require a global response. No country can meet these challenges alone. Human mobility resulting from poverty, war and disease is a growing challenge that tests human rights and the capacity of states to respond.
8. Climate Terror
Climate change affects us all. Extreme phenomena such as floods, droughts and storms are increasingly present. Although we have become aware of the seriousness of the situation, we still lack the determination to take radical action. Global warming is a threat we can no longer ignore.
9. Populist Terror
The rise of populism, both left and right, has shaken the foundations of democracy. Leaders such as Trump, Bolsonaro and Maduro have demonstrated that the “other” is turned into the enemy, eroding fundamental democratic values. These movements, based on exclusion and nationalism, threaten the principles of equality and human rights.
The COVID-19 pandemic has taught us that danger can come from anywhere and spread rapidly in a globalized world. We have seen the fragility of our systems and, at the same time, the capacity of human beings to find solutions. Vaccines are an example of how, in the face of adversity, we can respond with innovation and speed.
Final Reflection
These are just some of the lessons that this turbulent century has taught us. The important thing is not only to recognize them, but to learn from them. Humanity has shown a great capacity to adapt and find solutions. Now is the time to take advantage of these lessons and work together to build a better world.
