2011- 2036:  Back From The Future

Twenty five years from now in 2036, an enterprising historian will write a definitive history that will rise to the top of the best seller list.  The book will be titled “2011.”  There is a better chance that this book will be written and read by millions than that The New York Times will still exist to publish a best seller list in 2036 or that paper books will still be available to the public. Those of us that are still alive will shake our heads and tell our grandchildren that “2011 was one helluva year.”

One chapter will discuss Arab nationalism.  It will outline how the west came to its senses and rather than invent a new enemy for itself, embraced a chain reaction of revolts sponsored by young Arab men and women.  This Arab spring led to a new Arab world and a partnership based on democracy rather than dictators and oil.

Another chapter will highlight how a series of impossible to forecast events in Japan resulted in new technology to safely utilize nuclear energy.  Because in 2036 every business, home and vehicle will be equipped with a tiny reactor, the young will find it unbelievable that fear of radiation was a major concern.  The shrewd investors who cornered the uranium market will be the world’s wealthiest citizens.

Many young white students will find the chapter on ‘The Last Stand of Discrimination” difficult to understand.  In 2036 these white students will be in the minority and have no experience of being denied any basic liberties because of their color, gender, religion, or sexual orientation.  They will be shocked that their white ancestors spend over 200 years expressing prejudices against anyone who was different.  For many, Arabic or Mandarin will be a second language and World Cultures their favorite subject.  The last presidential election pitted a Moslem female against a gay Latino male.

The book will highlight an epiphany in the United States Congress that in 2036 seems laughable.  At the last hour, the federal government was shut down for lack of a budget, essential services were unavailable for months and the economy plunged toward a double dip recession.  A middle class revolt known as “The Spring of Social Democracy” saw the largest demonstrations since the Vietnam War blanket the country.

Eventually the nation’s political leadership cloistered itself in Camp David for the weekend.  What emerged was the famous “Fairness Doctrine” that placed the needs of the people ahead of reelecting politicians and special interests. Liberals gave up their position that deficits do not matter.  Conservatives gave up their position that only spending cuts can reduce the budget deficit.  There was suddenly a realization that the responsible position was in the middle.  All participants agreed to reduce the deficit, but in a fair and sustainable manner by taxing those who are enjoying the highest share of the national income.  In 2036 the national budget will always be balanced and wealthy Americans (especially uranium producers) will give their fair share without a thought.

A humorous chapter will address some of the more colorful characters from 2011. Our offspring will quiz us with awe about the antics of Sarah Palin, Lady Gaga and Charlie Sheen.

Other chapters have yet to be written.  After all its only April.