Lunch time Discussion & Debate: How are we doing as a race/people?

This week's 'suggested' prompt question:

Intro:

Browsing through some videos recently, one video caught my attention. It inspired me to really think about how "we" are doing as human beings. But not just "we" , in the sense of our own little microcosms or circles; but, "We" (with a capital W), in the sense of all 8 billion of us.

See the video: https://youtu.be/R_Yx1Fahjm8

Sure, there are (myopic) views on how "we" are doing as people. As the video suggests, western thought about how we are progressing as people is based on very limited views because "we" have been conditioned to think that progress means acquiring certain wealth, status, and economic stability or excess thereof. Symbols of being a part of that (Western) "we" club, the nice big house, car, job, and social status (the "American" dream, for example), are perpetuated in the media and tv shows that drives the west's motives and desires to achieve these things/status' — at the same time, it also demands all one's time and loyalty to pursue these ends.

But, the fact of the matter is that "We" are a sick world. Not only is the world getting sicker (i.e. climate change, for example) largely caused because of human activity in pursuit of that progress - for example, capitalism - causing the death and destruction of natural habitats, ecosystems, animals, and people. A greater percentage of the worlds 8 billion in population (continues to) live in inequity (compared western and European standards); the people suffer, live in poverty, and cannot even imagine achieving the progress their counterparts have.

As the video suggests, we are not doing better as humans. Arguably, we may be doing worse than ever.

What do you think?

Rules:

This is a friendly discussion and debate on various issues - it's likely to be passionate. However, the first rule is that there is no attacking (or being rude) to the other person allowed. Deal with the argument, not attack the person making it. Mis-information, untruths, and racist and extremist nationalistic ideologies will not be allowed to the extent that it insults the participants. I understand there is a fine line between free speech (discussion) and moderating this, but, this is a private discussion group and I think most will understand this is an important mitigating tool to avoid harmful rhetoric.

Secondly, we do not discuss our personal backgrounds, education or other things - all we will know is our first names. This will allow the perception of the discussion and debate being on a level-playing-field - we are all, in any event, different and we can all learn from one another.
Thirdly, topic selection will be decided either by me (the moderator) or the group that day in a majority vote.

Finally, NO RECORDING allowed in any way. Note that you should absolutely NOT record our sessions in any way! There is no requirement for cameras to be on.

I look forward to meeting with you all.

Ali