Abstract
The key to the advancement of humanity, into a solar civilization and beyond, lies not just with science and technology but in the element that most makes us human -- compassion for others. This basic belief has been at the heart of spirituality for centuries, and has formed the core of religions that have propelled civilization to new discoveries and new heights throughout history. Now, with the realization that our planet and its inhabitants face existential threats -- both natural and man made -- another great spiritual movement is needed for humankind to rise to the next level. Understanding and compassion must form the basis for this movement also, and provide a spiritual impetus to progress in science, economics, governance, the arts and every other human endeavor as we evolve from an earthbound presence to one that that is truly cosmic in nature. Unless compassion can be elevated above self interest, whatever advances to dominate Earth and its environs in the future will not be humanity but something else.
Walter Putnam