ABSTRACT
This chapter addresses the lynchpin in successful macro-engineering of any kind—the problem of responsibility. The principles of social psychiatry, whose application has increased the capacity of both individuals and groups to deal with stress, can help to reduce the adverse social effects of some macro-engineering projects. A disaster in social macro-engineering is the American love-affair with psycho-analysis, a theory based on non-verifiable hypotheses, which implied both the prevention and cure of psychiatric disorder and problems of living. The macro-engineering of buildings and roads is impressive, but easier than the macro-engineering applied to human society. Social engineering on a macro-level is needed to correct the large-scale imbalances which exist. Big social projects are needed to offset the effects of the technological revolution. A proper perspective on our priorities, and the application of sound macro-engineering to our social problems could provide us a safe and better future.
