Comment Re:Let's face it (Score 1) 1105
Indeed, the spirit of the age we live in seems to have us moving more and more towards recognition of our fundamental interconnectedness. That said, recognition of interconnectedness needs to be followed up by practical action to account for that interconnectedness. You asked specifically about power, charm and effectiveness. I certainly don't think that a casual glance at what Baha'is have accomplished would answer that which is why I suggested a deeper investigation. Suffice it to say that we are not in a hurry (mostly) as developing a global civilization is not something that happens in mere decades! I suspect that fossil fuels, the environment and many other things will become crises that we deal with (for better or worse) before a "golden age" of civilization is established. But I do believe strongly in the power of individual action to make a difference, in the power of communities to make a difference... and even in the power of institutions to make a difference.
The betterment of the world can be accomplished through pure and goodly deeds, through commendable and seemly conduct.
Pretty simple.
I'm not deeply knowledgable of the TM movement but based on what you have described, it does seem to be a reflection of this "spirit of the age". I also agree that that our ability to act collectively is pretty poor. But I also think that it is improving (sloooowly) and that there is real hope for humanity. Compared to the 19th century, we are experts at collective action. Compared to what we can imagine, we still have a long way to go!