Centrism as Humanity s Compass

                Centrism as Humanity’s Compass: Essays
                by Vladmir Angelblazer, philosopher,
                Mount Cain, 2025- 01-10
          All copyrights belong to Vladimir Angelblazer,2025-01-13.


                Publisher’s Introduction:

       In these tumultuous times, as the forces of globalization, nationalism, and technological upheaval vie for dominance, humanity stands at a crossroads. The ideological frameworks of the past have proven inadequate to address the existential challenges of the present. The left, with its dreams of universal equality, has often faltered under the weight of its own contradictions. The right, with its fervent embrace of tradition and sovereignty, risks devolving into isolationism and division. And yet, beyond these extremes lies a middle path—one that seeks to harmonize diversity without erasing identity, to foster innovation without sacrificing justice.

       This collection of essays by Vladmir Angelblazer embarks on a philosophical journey to rediscover centrism as the compass humanity desperately needs. From a historical reflection on ideological cycles to a theoretical exploration of centrist ideals, and culminating in a critique of current geopolitical trends, these writings argue for a unifying vision that transcends the politics of power and partisanship. Let us step forward together, not as fragmented nations or competing ideologies, but as one collective soul striving for enlightenment in an age of darkness.



                I.

              "The Triad of Ideologies: Mapping Humanity’s Political Crossroads"
              (Exploring leftist, rightist, and centrist paths, and their
               historical cycles and impacts.)

       In the intricate labyrinth of human history, three broad ideological currents have persistently shaped the political and social dynamics of our civilizations: leftist movements, rightist ideologies, and centrist forces. These three streams, much like the ancient rivers of myth and legend, have carved distinct pathways through the bedrock of human experience, each leaving behind a legacy of triumphs and tragedies. Over the past three centuries, the leftist movements have perhaps played the most contentious and, some might argue, detrimental role in the trajectory of modern history. To understand our current position at the crossroads and chart a course forward, we must examine the arcs of these ideological forces with the broad strokes of a historian’s brush and the discerning eye of a philosopher.

              The Rise of the Left: From Revolution to Contagion

       The modern left first emerged as a powerful ideological force during the tempestuous days of the French Revolution. It was in these blood-stained streets that the rhetoric of equality, liberty, and fraternity took shape—principles that inspired and ignited movements far beyond the borders of France. The revolution ushered in not just a new political era but a philosophical contagion that infected the minds of ruling classes and intellectuals alike. Leftist theorists, armed with utopian visions and radical critiques of the status quo, challenged the foundations of traditional governance and sought to rewrite the social contract.

       Over the ensuing centuries, the left gained ground in Europe and beyond, culminating in the Bolshevik seizure of power in the Russian Empire, transforming it into the Soviet Union. The Soviet experiment, though birthed in ideals of equality and social justice, devolved into a system marked by repression, economic stagnation, and the erosion of individual freedoms. Yet, with the collapse of socialism in the USSR, one might have expected the leftist tide to recede. Instead, its ideological currents found new fertile ground in the minds of Western intellectuals and policymakers, spreading across America and Europe like a second wave of contagion.

              Leftist Legacies: Gains and Wounds

       The left’s contributions to humanity cannot be dismissed outright. It championed universal education, labor rights, and the welfare state, confronting societies with moral imperatives of justice and compassion. It raised critical questions about equity, power structures, and human dignity. Yet, the darker side of leftist movements—their tendency toward radical upheaval, class warfare, and the centralization of power—has left deep and enduring scars on human societies.

       By the dawn of the 21st century, humanity stood amidst the ruins and remnants of ideological wars. The "leftist contagion," as some might call it, has not only reshaped economies and cultures but has also intensified the divides between classes, nations, and even generations. Today, we grapple with the consequences of those divisions: identity politics, economic inequalities, and a pervasive distrust of institutions.

              The Centrist Dilemma: A Path Not Yet Forged

       Caught between the polarities of left and right, centrism often appears as the voice of reason—an appeal to balance and pragmatism. Yet, centrism’s inherent challenge lies in its lack of a unifying, galvanizing vision. While leftists dream of utopias and rightists extol tradition and sovereignty, centrists struggle to articulate a philosophy that transcends compromise and becomes a rallying cry for humanity. The world needs more than moderation; it requires a cohesive ideological framework that addresses the pressing crises of our age while avoiding the pitfalls of extremism.

              The Crossroads of the 21st Century: Toward a Unified Philosophy

       Today, humanity finds itself once again at a critical juncture. With the advent of scientific and technological advancements, problems that seemed insurmountable a century ago now appear solvable through collective action. Climate change, resource scarcity, and global pandemics demand solutions that transcend borders, ideologies, and historical grievances. The question, however, remains: can we forge a unified philosophical path that reconciles humanity’s competing ideologies?

       One intriguing possibility lies in the synthesis of ideas from various intellectual traditions. For instance, Russian Cosmism, with its audacious vision of humanity’s cosmic destiny, resonates with contemporary technological ambitions. Elon Musk’s quest to colonize Mars can be seen as a modern manifestation of this philosophy—a belief in humanity’s potential to transcend earthly limitations and pioneer new frontiers. Similarly, the ecological consciousness emerging from Indigenous traditions, the technological optimism of Silicon Valley, and the ethical frameworks of classical philosophy could together form the scaffolding of a new global ideology.

              The Search for Leaders and Thinkers

       But who will champion this new synthesis? Where are the leaders and thinkers capable of articulating a vision that inspires and unites? History offers few examples of individuals who have successfully bridged ideological divides, but the need for such figures has never been greater. In a world increasingly fragmented by politics, economics, and culture, the emergence of a unifying philosophy may hinge on our ability to foster dialogue, encourage innovation, and cultivate wisdom.

              Conclusion: Toward a Shared Future

       The three ideological paths of humanity—left, right, and center—have shaped the contours of our world, each contributing to the complexity and richness of human civilization. Yet, as we stand at this new crossroads, it is clear that none of these paths alone can guide us toward a harmonious future. The time has come to envision a new way forward, one that draws on the strengths of all three traditions while transcending their limitations. The future demands a philosophy not of division, but of synthesis—a shared vision for a world in which humanity works together to overcome its greatest challenges and realize its boundless potential.



                II.

              "A Middle Path for Humanity: Toward a Unified Global Vision"
              (Examining the theoretical underpinnings of centrism as the
                philosophy of unity in the 21st century.)

       As humanity steps deeper into the 21st century, the echoes of past conflicts and the shadow of looming crises challenge our collective resolve to build a more harmonious global order. While the thinkers of the past—from Mackinder’s geopolitical visions to Fukuyama’s "end of history"—offered frameworks that sought to explain the world’s trajectory, the search for new voices capable of guiding us into the future remains urgent. Who will articulate the philosophy or ideologies capable of uniting a fractured world? What incentives could finally end the destructive cycles of war? And crucially, what lessons from history must we leave behind as we navigate the road ahead?

              A New Philosophical Vanguard

       The search for intellectual leaders who can transcend the limitations of past paradigms requires a shift in focus. Traditional geopolitics, rooted in territorial ambition and power dynamics, must yield to a philosophy that prioritizes interconnectedness, sustainability, and shared human dignity. Today’s potential visionaries may not emerge solely from academia but from the confluence of disciplines: environmental scientists, technological innovators, and advocates for global justice. Figures like Vandana Shiva, whose work champions ecological sustainability and biodiversity, or Yuval Noah Harari, who provokes essential debates about technology and humanity’s future, hint at the kind of interdisciplinary thinking required.

       Additionally, grassroots leaders and movements deserve recognition as the catalysts for change. Young activists challenge entrenched power structures with moral clarity, while initiatives from Indigenous communities emphasize the importance of living in harmony with nature. These voices, though diverse in their origins, share a common thread: the belief that humanity’s survival depends on collaboration, not competition.

              Regional and Global Directions for Peace

       To cultivate a world that prioritizes peace, humanity must reimagine both regional and global governance. Regional alliances—such as the European Union, the African Union, or ASEAN—offer models of cooperation that, despite their imperfections, demonstrate the potential for unity amidst diversity. These organizations must evolve beyond economic and political integration to address cultural understanding, equitable resource distribution, and collective security.

       On a global scale, institutions like the United Nations must undergo a radical transformation. The UN, born in the aftermath of World War II, has too often been hamstrung by geopolitical rivalries. A reimagined UN could prioritize mediation over enforcement, focusing on preventive diplomacy and the empowerment of regional conflict-resolution mechanisms. Global peace also demands a reevaluation of the veto power wielded by a select few nations within the Security Council, which perpetuates inequality and hampers swift action in times of crisis.

              Incentives for Ending Wars

       Wars persist not because humanity lacks the means to end them, but because the incentives for peace have been insufficiently cultivated. To break this cycle, we must create frameworks that reward cooperation and penalize aggression:

       Economic Integration: Expanding economic interdependence between nations can serve as a deterrent to conflict. Trade agreements and shared development projects create mutual stakes in stability, reducing the appeal of war.

       Technological Collaboration: Innovations in renewable energy, artificial intelligence, and healthcare should be pursued as joint ventures between nations, fostering partnerships that transcend political divides.

       Cultural Exchange: Investments in education and cultural exchange programs can promote understanding and empathy among peoples, weakening the narratives that fuel nationalism and xenophobia.

       Accountability Mechanisms: Strengthening international legal frameworks, including the International Criminal Court, can deter acts of aggression by holding leaders accountable for crimes against humanity.

              Lessons to Leave Behind

       As we strive for a peaceful future, certain destructive habits and ideologies must be abandoned:

       The Legacy of Imperialism: The exploitation of weaker nations for the benefit of powerful states has left a legacy of resentment and inequality. A new global ethic must embrace reparations, equity, and genuine partnerships.

       Zero-Sum Thinking: Viewing international relations as a game of winners and losers perpetuates conflict. A mindset of abundance—where cooperation enriches all parties—must replace this outdated paradigm.

       Militarism as a Default: The unchecked expansion of military budgets and the glorification of armed conflict serve only to escalate tensions. Redirecting resources toward humanitarian and environmental needs would better reflect humanity’s priorities.

              The Road Ahead

       The 21st century offers unprecedented opportunities to address humanity’s most pressing challenges. Scientific advancements and technological breakthroughs have equipped us with tools to combat poverty, disease, and climate change. Yet, without a unifying vision to guide these efforts, progress risks being uneven and unsustainable. The call for a new philosophical and ideological framework is not merely an intellectual exercise; it is a practical necessity.

       Let the lessons of history—both its triumphs and its failures—serve as guideposts, not shackles. Let the voices of new thinkers, from all corners of the globe, inspire us to dream of a world where peace is not merely the absence of war but the presence of justice, equity, and shared purpose. And let humanity, in its infinite diversity, find the wisdom to leave behind the chains of the past as we chart a course toward a brighter, more harmonious future.



                III.

              "Centrist Leadership in an Age of Fragmentation: A Philosophical
              Call to Action"
              (Critiquing current geopolitical dynamics and proposing centrism
               as the antidote to division.)

       The world today, fragmented yet interconnected, stands at a critical juncture where ideological and practical paradigms vie for dominance. Amid this landscape, the recent return of Donald Trump to the White House has sparked polarized reactions across the globe. Some herald his ascent as a chance for a pragmatic centrism—a pivot away from the excesses of leftist globalism and the barren extremes of isolationist nationalism. Yet, others see his rhetoric and policies as a reinforcement of a long-standing paradigm: the strong dictating terms to the weak. Can such leadership foster a truly unified humanity, or is it another chapter in the cyclical struggle of power politics?

              The Paradigm of Strength: A Recurrent Human Tale

       Trump’s declarations of "America First" resonate deeply with those who feel left behind by globalization’s uneven progress. His administration’s focus on recalibrating the global balance of power is seen by some as a necessary corrective to the perceived overreach of left-leaning globalists who, critics argue, used ideals of equality to impose technocratic control—a “Schwabization” of the universe, where digital hegemony supplants human autonomy.

       Yet, in striving to rebalance the scales, Trump and other nationalist leaders appear to double down on a zero-sum vision of power. The imagery is striking: streetwise strongmen, carving the world into zones of influence like youthful gangs vying for control of a playground. Xi Jinping, Vladimir Putin, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, and others emerge as peers in this new global club of "realist" statesmen. This, however, is not a new narrative. Humanity has long been trapped in cycles of domination, resistance, and redivision—a legacy as old as empires themselves.

              The Failure of Extremes

       The leftist globalists sought to unify humanity under ideals of equity, inclusion, and progress, but often their methods betrayed their ideals. They centralized power, institutionalized surveillance, and alienated the very masses they claimed to champion. Nationalists, in turn, respond not by transcending these failings but by embracing their inverse: a tribalism that prioritizes the few over the many, veiling ambition in the guise of "traditional values" and national sovereignty.

       Neither approach adequately addresses the pressing challenges of our age. Environmental collapse, pandemics, and existential risks like asteroid impacts do not respect borders or ideologies. These threats demand collective, rather than competitive, solutions.

              The Necessity of Centrist Ideology

       What the world needs now is not more polarization but a unifying philosophy: a centrism that transcends the binary opposition of left and right. True centrism does not mean compromise for its own sake; it means synthesizing the strengths of opposing views while discarding their weaknesses. From the left, it can take the commitment to social equity and innovation. From the right, it can borrow the values of personal responsibility and cultural rootedness. But it must transcend both, offering a vision where humanity’s shared interests outweigh its divisions.

              The Role of Leadership in a Unified Humanity

       For such a vision to take hold, leaders must abandon the logic of dominance. The "divine right" of kings has long been discredited, and no modern leader—however charismatic—has received a mandate from on high. Humanity’s collective crises reveal the hollowness of pretensions to supremacy, whether economic, military, or cultural. Hurricanes, wildfires, and the vast, indifferent expanse of space remind us of our shared vulnerability and interdependence.

       Trump and his contemporaries must recognize that greatness cannot be achieved at the expense of others. True leadership lies not in dividing the spoils of a fragmented world but in building a framework for collective action. The path forward requires fostering institutions that balance sovereignty with cooperation, enabling nations to work together without losing their unique identities.

       The Soul of Humanity: The Foundation for a New Philosophy

       At its core, humanity’s greatest asset is not its strength or cunning but its capacity for empathy, creativity, and spiritual growth. A centrism that aspires to unite humanity must be rooted in this understanding. It must reject the reductive logic of "strong versus weak" and embrace a holistic view of the human condition—one that values the soul over survival alone.

       The Biblical metaphor of the "naked man" resonates here. Stripped of illusions, we stand equal before the vastness of the cosmos. This humility should inspire not despair but a profound sense of purpose: to nurture a world where all can thrive, not as pawns in a power game but as co-creators of a shared destiny.

              What Must Be Left Behind

       To move forward, humanity must shed the baggage of the past. This includes:

1. Zero-Sum Thinking: The belief that one nation’s gain is another’s loss perpetuates cycles of conflict. Cooperation must replace competition as the driving force of international relations.

2. Technocratic Authoritarianism: A future dominated by surveillance and control undermines human dignity. Technology must serve humanity, not enslave it.

3. Tribal Nationalism: Pride in one’s heritage should not come at the expense of others. True patriotism lies in contributing to the global good.

              A Call to Action

       The 21st century must not be another chapter in the old story of domination and division. It can be an era where humanity, guided by a new centrism, rises above its baser instincts to build a world worthy of its highest ideals. Leaders like Trump have the opportunity—and the responsibility—to move beyond the logic of the "strongman" and embrace a vision of shared destiny. The question is whether they will rise to the occasion.

Humanity’s survival depends not on who can wield the most power but on who can inspire the greatest unity. In this endeavor, the soul of humanity—its creativity, empathy, and spirit—must be the guiding light. The time to act is now, before the storms of our own making consume us all.



                My description of the illustration:

       Scene: The crossroads of three roads leading in different directions. On one road, figures are visible symbolizing the left movement (revolutionary images, red tones). On the other - symbols of the right movement (flags, traditional motifs, cold blue tones). The third road rushes forward, symbolizing the centrist path: it is surrounded by golden light, the harmony of nature and bridges connecting opposites.
      
       Background: A majestic sunset turning into a starry sky, hinting at the connection between the earthly and heavenly dimensions.
      
       Style: A mixture of the symbolism of Eug;ne Carriеre and the romantic power of Caspar David Friedrich.

       Symbols:
      
       At the crossroads stands a lone figure holding a compass (a reference to "Centrism as the Compass of Humanity").
In the distance, storm clouds are visible over two side roads and a clear sky over the centrist path.
      
       Title of the painting:
           "Crossroads of Humanity: The Choice of the 21st Century"



        "Crossroads of Humanity" — The Ultimate Manifesto

 Yo, listen up! The world’s at a CROSSROAD, it’s time to decide:
Left, Right, or the Golden Middle Path where we ALL collide.
No more old-school power grabs or global traps,
It’s time to rise up and redraw the maps!

 Left’s been a mess:
Revolutions, illusions, and broken dreams,
Promised us heaven, but tore at the seams.

 Right’s got its flaws too, man:
It’s all "ME FIRST" and crushing the weak,
While the planet’s screaming, "Hear me speak!"

 The Center is FIRE!
No kings, no masters, just UNITY higher.
Science + Soul, Progress + Peace,
A new world vision that’ll never cease!

 What’s next? WE DECIDE!
Forget labels—humanity’s on the same ride.
Save the planet, end the hate,
Stop flexing power—it’s time to create!

 So what’s the move? Find your SOUL.
Be a builder, not a fool in control.
No more wars, no more lies,
Just ONE people under starry skies.

 "CHOOSE THE CENTER! WE ALL BELONG!"
That’s the beat of humanity’s song.
No left, no right—just YOU and ME,
Building tomorrow in harmony.

 Let’s go, 21st century—WE’RE COMING STRONG!


                All copyrights belong to Vladimir Angelblazer,2025-01-13.