However, applying just the first part of the title statement - a rational nation - would be world-changing... Aside from making direct democracy such as Swiss-

However, applying just the first part of the title statement - a rational nation - would be world-changing... Aside from making direct democracy such as Swiss-style referenda possible, the most terrifying outcome (to political elites) would be in national defense/offense. A E van Vogt covered this in 'The World of Null-A': an invading army was confronted with a populace that mobilized instantly, utilizing every available implement that could be used as a weapon, and able to make rational decisions regarding local defense without an overarching leadership. As for offensive actions: if enough whys had been asked before and during WWI (and countless other conflicts), millions of soldiers would not have needlessly perished. Developing and cultivating rationality, and super-rationality (as detailed by Douglas Hofstadter), is largely a matter of early education... Schools and teachers could change the world!