Global Selfie This is one planet, fully connected. There are lots of benefits to be derived from this arrangement. Immensely complex systems can be managed remotely, by automated systems that continually assess changing conditions. The flip side is that hackers, terrorists and global anarchists can suddenly immobilize parts of this automated framework. Manual backups don't exist.

	Global Showpiece To view the upside of globalism, a good place to visit is the oil-rich region of the Persian Gulf. Here, fabulous hotels, resorts, and business towers loom over harbors bustling with commerce. Especially at night, the brilliance is mesmerizing. This may seem a little ostentatious, but the motivation is the same as that which has driven Americans to the present day. Glittering display is taken as an indicator of great ability, and importance.
	Global Timebomb The ORANGE circles above indicate current oil consumption, which is a big driver of climate change. But charts of world oil consumption are currently leveling off, while similar charts for electricity generated by wind and solar are rising steadily. One leading source of pollution, however, has so far been largely ignored. Methane released from cattle, raised to satisfy a growing global appetite for meat, is a more potent source of greenhouse effects than all transportation and industrial pollution combined. Really.