> - The "post 9/11 world" you mention, is simply a result of a general worsening of Western political relations over time, which are becoming especially evident

> - The "post 9/11 world" you mention, is simply a result of a general worsening of Western political relations over time, which are becoming especially evident recently. That state of turmoil weakens your sense of stability and security, making the future look bleak - i.e. your future self. The relations have not simply become worse, they have been very deliberately driven to be worse: https://www.tabletmag.com/sections/news/articles/media-great-racial-awakening https://www.tabletmag.com/sections/news/articles/media-great... Just look at these hockey sticks. People talk about divisive rhetoric, but hot damn.