Progressive thinkers now largely see humanity as a collective entity, akin to a superorganism, where individual actions and experiences contribute to a larger whole. This perspective emphasizes interconnectedness and shared responsibility, suggesting that our fates are intertwined and that we function collectively like an organism.

In "Europe Central," William T. Vollmann explores these themes, underlining the idea that we cannot progress as isolated individuals but rather must recognize our roles within a larger societal framework. This viewpoint encourages a sense of unity and mutual reliance among people across the globe.