It was a decade that saw a spike in religiously inspired terrorism, an increasing polarization of political positions, disputes over the teaching of "creation science" alongside evolution, strong gains in the fight for gay rights, a largely unpopular and highly controversial U.S. President (George W. Bush) who tried to inaugurate a new era of conservative dominance, and a shaky if not moribund world economy (except in China). It also saw the election of the first African-American U.S. President, significantly increased ethnic and religious diversity (and tensions) in Europe, and continued general disarray among the nations of Africa.

If you need more reminders of the highs and lows of The Aughts, take a look at three best/worst analyses from Kyle Munkittrick, Kristi Scott, and myself.

Then please answer this question:

Looking back over the last decade, how would you assess the social and political developments of that period?

• Wonderful! Excellent! Fabulous!

• Very good. Quite encouraging.

• Fair, but nothing special.

• Sadly, going in reverse.

• Horrible. Terrible. Not good.

Feel free to add comments here or on the poll itself. Thanks!