Although I wouldn't say 'international unity' is a pipe-dream, I would venture to say that it's something that has to take a back-seat to local/national concerns. At times you can have an international sense on matters, but ultimately (when the 9-5 job is done, the kids are hungry and the mortgage is due) you've got to make a choice ...and it's typically between 'us' or 'them'? The 'us' clan can only stomach so much of the same meal - and 5 years of terrorism can wreak havoc on even a healthy digestive system - which is why there are diversions among the likes of Global Warming, African Poverty or Missile Defense etc..
I can't really see it any other way, unless you take the 'global village' concept to the extreme ...but even the internet isn't strong enough to support that kind of pressure, especially when you consider most of the world doesn't even have access.
I don't think we're as 'provincial' as we once were - probably the opposite. It just feels that way because we're finally getting a chance to see what exactly is out there - and for the 'regular Joe' ...it's simply overwhelming.
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Although I wouldn't say 'international unity' is a pipe-dream, I would venture to say that it's something that has to...