The materialism that plagued the close of the 20th century is abating. A general recognition of the connectedness of all things and the fragility and sacredness of all life has softened actions and decision making. Economic practices are dramatically changed, and lifestyles reflect the sustainability and simplicity ethic. Aging Baby Boomers, many holding significant wealth, rediscover the idealism of their youth and temper it with wisdom. Community, relationships, spirituality, and neighborhood are ascendant.
Most people do significant amounts of unpaid work.
The civic sector experiences a renaissance. Growth was intentionally slowed during the transition, but new value is created in the emerging Green Economy sector. We are able to do much more with less matter and energy. A commitment to local economies, which exist as a decentralized network, balances the economic might and homogenizing effect of the global corporations. The younger generation, fervently environmentalist, is now entering the workforce.