This article describes the negative beliefs that Australian youths view the future of society. The author asserts that these beliefs reveal a fundamental failing of modern western culture (the absence of a shared ideal or vision of our society & its future) & the collapse of the central tenet of western culture (the belief in material progress). Among the consequences of these failures is the increased suicide rate of young adolescents. Suggestions on remaking this culture are included. (30 refs) (SC)