The Long Slippery Slope
by Paul Hazelden

Introduction

We are on a long slippery slope.   Where we are may not make any sense, but it is better to stay here than to slide further down.   Standards have fallen so far that if they fall any further, society as we know it is likely to break down completely.

Sound familiar?

Over the years, I have heard this speech given by a number of people.   The one that prompted this article was in November 2001, and the person giving it was intelligent and friendly.   He was very concerned about the 'state of society', and the discussion about the legalisation of cannabis prompted this prophecy of the end of society.

I struggled then, as I have struggled over the years, to make sense of this fear.   I failed then as I have failed many times before, to understand what the speaker is worried about - what they think is happening, or may happen if we continue down this 'slope'.

I offer this article as a comment on these conversations, and in the hope that someone, somewhere will be able to explain what they mean.

 

That Long Slope

Who is on it?

All society is going the same way, doing the same thing?   If only!

 

Where is it going?

This slope always goes downhill.   Does it ever go uphill?   No.   So standards have been slipping since the creation of the world?   Get real!

 

Just the one slope?

Just as different groups in society are moving in different ways, so each person is moving in different ways in different areas.   Perhaps they are paying their taxes more honestly, but being unfaithful to their partner more often.

 

Gaining Perspective

Looking Back

Those who fail to learn from the past are forced to re-live it.

 

Looking Around

Since the Second World War, a number of countries have introduced sharia law - the traditional Islamic system of regulations and punishments.   If you get caught stealing, you can have your hand cut off.

 

What We Fear

The problem, of course, is not rational but emotional.