El Greko - "They lost out because few were prepared to back their views to the end. And as they grew older they allowed daily compromise to eat away at their ideals"

How true. Many of those ideals were lost in the pragmatic decisions regarding the well-being of the children that were born to them but in many cases, the torch was passed. In most cases, however, the movement was chalked-up as a bit of romantic history by those who were, in reality, 'week-end hippies'. I know plenty of people, however, who still embrace the principles of peaceful revolution.

I think the internet has provided the older generation with a means of influencing generations to come. As previously stated, teachers are encouraged to 'teach to the test' and stay far away from controversial, political issues. Teaching children to make decisions based on critical thought is left to all of us.

Sadly, many parents never discuss politics, consumerism or environment with their children. When both parents must work full-time to provide the basics, there is very little down time at home and not much interpersonal communication.

That said, I still think it is a parental responsibility to make the sacrifices necessary to raise, thoughtful, caring human beings. Sadly, the emphasis continues to be on competition rather than co-operation.

Every aspect of our society needs to stop rushing to accumulate material wealth and begin to value the benefits of ethical and sustainable communities. We are blessed with the benefits and should be showing the world how it can be done. Otherwise, the underdeveloped nations will only want to emulate our consumer consciousness and we will be locked in a struggle to compete for dwindling resources.