The homogenization, and subsequent impoverishment (at least with regards to the quality and diversity) of the world appears to be, sadly, inevitable. It takes real, constant effort to maintain "the old ways" while tradition is so easily erased through globalization and, ultimately, technology.

I don't think we'll lose _all_ diversity of culture, as there will always be stalwarts to uphold institutions (even espresso bars) but as generations transition I think we'll be shocked at how much we've lost just a few years from now.

This isn't strictly a bad thing, as there are many traditions which have been laid by the wayside over the centuries, but I have to admit: I am not impressed at the things we've been replacing them with. Phones, social media, selfies, a constant sense of connectedness, influencer tourism -- it all feels so terrible, and it feels like only now are people around me recognizing that we may have dug too deep.

It seems to me that 2020 was the turning point (do you remember what it was like to be a tourist before then?) and that we're deeply nestled in the jaws of the Balrog now.

I'm really not sure what it looks like to climb back out.

This homogenization is merely a continuation of a trend since the beginning of human history.

Tribes homogenize into villages, villages into cities, cities into states, states into nations, and now we’re witnessing nations beginning to homogenize.

The whole way, it’s being driven by technology (farming, writing, metallurgy, printing, telecommunications, and so on).

I haven't been to Europe since before 2020. I assume we're not nearly as welcome over there now?