I didn't specify any political philosophy, but I agree, no side seems averse to using fear to manipulate.

If you were referring to the topics I mentioned (global warming, overpopulation, ecological disasters, poverty and disease, ignorance, economic meltdowns) I hope you didn't mean that these are NOT real threats - I don't think you did. Out of curiousity, what would you say were the major threats to humanity as a whole in the 21st century? (and I certainly don't mean to limit this to Tom, if anyone else has a list, please share.)

I have heard of the kinds of teachings you mentioned and they are reprehensible. I'm not sure what the solution is - supplying satellite TV technology? Internet access? CIA agents as teachers? Certainly aiding free-thinking student groups and others. Any such efforts would have to be done in such a way as to reduce the chance of them being labelled "western propaganda" - a difficult task.

I think an extensive student exchange program might help.

Making every effort to ensure western nations (both as governments, societies, and businesses) adhere to the highest standards of ethical behaviour would help make such efforts more credible.

The United States (and Canada, and Australia, and others) should not only SAY they are beacons of freedom and justice and rationality and compassion, they should truly BE those beacons - and I don't think we've done a great job of that lately.