Civilization

I admire the human capability to organize and develop living and working conditions in a social and cultural network embedded within societies. Our achievements are amazing—our failures are shocking. It’s sad to acknowledge that even a highly developed society doesn’t guarantee peace and freedom for everyone. Never have I understood the willingness to use violence, nor have I been able to explain why generally accepted moral guidelines can be suspended so easily. How do we recognize "others" as civilized too? Once I had an idea: We should change the way we look at people. Whom do I actually see when I look at the man on the street? I see myself. And whom do I see in the mirror when I brush my teeth? I see you.