actually, we are in the era of homo sapiens dominance, which began about 150,000 years ago, when eve first said: "not tonight, i've got a headache".

Pericles

The problem with SMWTGF is that we have to reset the date every time Melbourne wins.

Come to think of it, is that really a problem?

DEMOS

Maybe we should call this year 13,600,000,000 ABB (After Big Bang)

If I recall, it was last year that they arrived at the conclusion that the Big Bang was 13.6 billion years ago.

So this year must be 13,600,000,001 ABB

Naturally, our calender must start from Sept. 1966. That, of course, is the time when Gene Roddenberry's "Star Trek" first premiered.
So, I guess that puts us at 40 GR.

But Aime shouldn't we rather call this:

Stardate -300 . (give or take a few star years)

Pericles,

I stand corrected.

The advantage of ABB is that, for practical purposes, there is no BBB.

I must admit I was surprised to find an interesting topic so full of irrelavent comments. Is that what defines the present era? lack of meaningful content or is there something really inspirational in politics, sport or life that should be the centre of the collective intelligence of the people that frequent this forum.

Can I suggest several 'era defining' headliners.

In world politics - The lack of respect of national leaders for the value of human life.

In Australian politics - The ongoing power of perception and the liklihood that it will bring Australia undone once more