and Technical Reports 197and Alexander KingAND FIGURES200209Many recent analyses of the long-term pr~kind have produced gloomy conclusions.were called doomsday prophecies. Yet theof crises which are currently engulfing thethe dearest indication that humanity is atin its historical evolution. And the way toprophecies self-fulfilling is to ignore theperils that lie ahead which indeed are alrely solely on "faith." Our scientifically coJof the long-term world development baseddata points out quite clearly that such a pas,to disaster. It is most urgent that we do ncfrom the dangers ahead, but face the challeiassess alternative paths of development irhopeful spirit. Starting early enough on avelopment can save mankind from traumvii;pects for man-Promptly, theyapid succession,,ntire globe area turning pointaake doomsday9vious signs ofeady felt--and~lucted analysis~n all available!ve course leads avert our eyes;e squarel~ anda positive andew path of de-tic experiences