Today marks the end of the Mayan cycle, and pundits are taking advantage of the occasion to talk about disasters. I find it interesting that so few talk about nuclear EMP terrorism. People seem to prefer the thought of natural disasters or economic collapse, crises driven by some relentless but dispassionate force. The idea that their doom could result from the whim of some petty dictator in Iran or North Korea adds insult to injury.

The end of the Mayan cycle coincides with the holiday season and the end of 2012. This blog deals with sobering issues, so it is good to remember occasionally that there is hope for the future, that the broad sweep of history is toward betterment of humankind. While we work to secure ourselves from realistic dangers, we should take some time to appreciate what we now have. I wish my readers a happy new year!