I seem to recall some societal anthropologist or historian saying that the true sign of a civilization in decline is the culture of "mindless self-indulgence".

Not being an anarchist (except sailing!) or one of those guys with a "End of the World" sign, it would seem that most "First" world countries are very close to this culture.

In the US, for example, the top selling items are IPOD, GAMEBOY and X-Box. Microsoft has switched from industry leader in business software to gaming.

Our biggest health threat is obesity. The economics of recreational drugs now approach that of legitimate industry.

We've switched from the "industrial economy" to the "information economy" to the "entertainment economy".

There are more US citizens graduating with sports & fitness related degrees than engineering degrees. So, this is the place to get injured playing golf!

Kind of makes you wonder....