To address the thread topic: How about everyone posting on this thread go out and actually do something to make the problem better - even just a little bit better. Not talking, not feeling, but real get-off-your-ass something out in the world.
Maybe in the end that's the best way (or the only way) to chip away at the problem.
Ok, I'm going into Chicago with well intentions, and I'm going to ask the gangs to pull their pants up, get a life, and re-join civilized society. Will that work ?? Oh and I will ask them please to quit killing each other, and quit doing drugs etc. What if I ask nice enough ? Will that work ?.....