How We Lost Our Way @ SXSW

Here are some worthwhile observations by Russ Baker, chief of WhoWhatWhy:

I trekked to Austin, Texas, in March for South by Southwest - to see what the self-proclaimed cutting-edge minds of America (and the world) are doing about the challenges that face us. What I found was a reflection of the self-absorption and destructive head-in-the-sand, or nose-in-the-navel, approach that is only hastening our potential demise as a species.

This annual mega-festival is one of the most talked-about cultural phenomena in the world. Tens of thousands come to imbibe a vast range of offerings from the frontiers of music, film and technology. And to be completely surrounded by stimulating sights, sounds, ideas, and conversation about what’s trending and why.

Instead of boldness and breakthrough, though, I found a corporate-dominated fun-fest for those who like whatever is cool at the moment, and wish to get a leg up in one’s industry.

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To be sure, a small slice of the programming was high-minded and dedicated to the environment, social justice, and inventions that actually matter. But that was truly a twig bobbing in a sea of froth.

You can read the rest @
http://whowhatwhy.org/2016/05/17/lost-way-south-southwests-squandered-potential/

I have to agree with Russ - SXSW seems to be a celebration of the culture of "me", with a healthy dose of consumerism as the highest good. He forgot to mention the swarm of Audis, BMWs, Mercedes Benzs, Porsches, and other high end cars one has to dodge to get around Austin during such festivals. If you want to experience the cult of Babylon at its finest, come to Austin during SXSW.

But if you are poor, stay at home (if you have one). You will definitely feel out of place.