". . . evolving." Just in case somebody is seriously trying to correct what I posted above, that was a joke.

But seriously, folks:

Individuals can't evolve? Well, I don't know about that. Considering that we can now diddle with DNA and all that, obviously there is an intellectual component to evolution. We're learning to control it. Now, whether or not that is a good thing is another story. But individuals can certainly improve themselves through reading, education, philosophical contemplation, and a by number of other means, and then pass that educational, intellectual, or ethical enhancement along to others through various forms of communication. Thus, a single individual can indeed contribute to moving all of humanity a step further along the path to a higher state.

By the same token, the communication of ignorance, folly, and aggression can lead humanity backward to a less civilized state. This could qualify as a form of evolutionary regression.

The choice is ours.

Don Firth