Just as individual citizens are dependent upon technology, the technology-based society is dependent upon the individual for its successful existence. Such a society has the potential to destroy itself and other societies, or the potential to reshape and better itself.
Never before has the need for personal responsibility been so important to such a vast majority of people. Problems aren't solved by organizations, laws or governments, but by individuals. Indeed, one person can shape the future.
If an individual had directly or indirectly caused an ethical problem resulting in devastating consequences, the solution can only begin with the individual. For instance, the money spent on avoidable health-care could be more beneficially spent on the reform of addictions. The next step would be to provide more support of preventative and educational programs to avoid another catastrophe. After all of this, more money could be better spent on further medical research and development. Such a solution is seemingly impossible, but the solution can only begin with the dedication and an ethic of personal responsibility of the individual.
Organizations cannot solve all the problems that afflict a technology-based society, nor can its government. Only individuals can solve ethical dilemmas. As Jesse Jackson said, "When you drink liquor, and when you take drugs, and when you sell drugs, and when you shoot people and when you rob people...nobody can save you but you from yourself."[11]
- L. W. Sullivan, "Creating a National Culture of Character," Vital Speeches of the Day, 57(7) 202-205 (1991).