Since 1970, relationships can be more volatile, jobs more ephemeral, geographical mobility more intensified, stability of marriage weaker.

Hierarchy works well in a stable environment.

Our technological infrastructure alienates us from each other. No need to form a workplace community, everybody there will be out in a year or two, and so will you, looking for a better place.

The history of the Church of Rome is a constant leakage of members into such breakaway cults, which go on splitting.

Institutions have the pathetic megalomania of the computer whose whole vision of the world is its own program.

If people want to compete for leadership of a religious group, they can compete in piety. A chilling thought. Or funny.

Islam is in principle egalitarian, and has always had problems with power.