And I will further just emphasize what perhaps drives my admittedly “extreme” understanding of this world: my view of humanity has grown pitch-black at this point. I’m convinced that the vast majority of human beings on the planet - now, and throughout all of human history - are irrational, self-interested, ignorant, and, to one degree or another, evil. Most people worship an assortment of idols, generally without even realizing it - including, I am quick to add, me! I'm sure that I, myself, fall short of my various ideals all over the place, despite my best efforts.