Mr. Bartov said how the development of modern technology to help save lives has also made the destruction of lives much more effective. This reminded me of Dickens’ quote: “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times.” In other words, there will always be progress, but with this progress there will be more chaos, more bloodshed. The relationship between these two variables is direct: as one increases, so does the other. I found this the most interesting aspect of the interview.

I don’t understand Mr. Bartov’s arguement that there is something “entirely new” about our situation since the 19th century.  Since the beginning of time people have divided into groups and considered others inferior to theirs--only to try to conquer those other groups.  I agree with Mr. Goodman in his comment that as our ability to destroy has increased with technology, our ability to live well and heal has also advanced.  What we need to search for is a “tipping point” that will make destroying other groups less desirable than investing in a realtionship with those groups.

This reminded me of Dickens’ quote: “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times.”