Who were those of Maldek?

[Diana]

1. It's my observation that people are more anesthetized than ever because of the ubiquitous media, and the way it's so common to be attached to smart devices. This creates a situation whereby people do not think for themselves and are easily lead.
I would propose, people are anesthetized as a means of coping. These are the mechanisms. Perhaps they are easily lead because they are in ascension stasis, awaiting the traumatic catalyst that awaits all who choose to sleep?
If they are easily lead, it would imply their polarization could be swift, given the properly arranged catalyst.

Yes, that is a possibility.

2. In the business world, there is a growing lack of integrity, particularly with online businesses. (I could elaborate.)
Would this not signify the downfall of Babylon? How is this connected to a bleak future?

It is a trajectory. This is the way it has been developing. At any time it could change, but there is inertia to deal with. Perhaps you are correct in that things might ramp up before a fall. But this seems like wishful thinking as opposed to taking responsibility and growing consciously. Personally I would prefer that over crisis or cataclysm—but it isn't for me to decide or control.

3. In the US, the millennial generation—in general—have grown up with this technology and are not forging out into the world physically the way previous generations did. Example: Being connected to the Internet is a connection, but at the same time, it can be a disconnection. You will see young people hanging out together but not really present with each other, because they are all on their phones. 
Why do you feel they need to forge out into the world physically? Are there advantages to being in one place, as opposed to another? Why do you feel they need to be present when in each others vicinity? Is it possible to be just as happy 'being' around someone, whilst elsewhere in spirit? Where does the spirit and mind go...when the imagination is invoked?

I think being present is essential to consciousness—being present with whatever you are doing.

If it CAN be a disconnection, does the fault lie with the instrument, or violinist, when a wrong note is struck?

I'm not sure what you meant here.

4. Still, the general population here in the US, seems to buy into the political system. I have very intelligent friends who think electing a democrat over a republican would make a difference, for example. They just can't seem to perceive any bigger picture about the system.
Have they been given other options?
It would seem your intelligent friends, have been gracefully endowed, with the priceless gift, 'hope'.
If another way were to arise, it would seem there would be atleast your intelligent friends, to recognize the better option, at the earliest convenience.

Yes, hope is a good thing.

But to buy into a ridiculous (and harmful) system is to stay mired in the drama. I do think it's important to realize this. Is it better to not be aware and stay in a cozy, blind place because it feels good and gives one hope; or is it better to have the courage to rise above the coziness, and open one's self to a larger reality? I don't know. It certainly feels better to keep the blinders on. But once they are off, they are off, and new choices need to be made.

5. I hope this doesn't offend anyone, but I have noticed that there are more Christians here than ever—especially among young people. This tells me that they are following, not discovering. 
What are the values of Christ?
If they are following, where would this lead?
What would you rather they discover? And where would you suggest they place the temple?

In general: When one follows, one does not make decisions derived from self, they are derived from a thought system outside of self. Therefore, responsibility and accountability are easily bypassed.

What each individual needs to discover, in my opinion, is self, and self's unique path as it relates to the whole. Following, if one has given one's self up to it, leads to someone else's destination. A Christian would likely want to be Christ-like. There is nothing wrong with that. I would rather they strive to reach there own unique path, potential, empowerment, and connection to the whole.

6. Our technology does not synch with our general consciousness. We still war with each other and have horrific weaponry with which to do it. 
would you rather the technology you claim to find somewhat detrimental, be more synched with your consciousness? How would this be achieved?
How would it operate? Would said synchronized conscious tech, be equipped with the also mentioned 'horrific weaponry'?

With a consciousness of respect for all life—humans, plants, animals, minerals, the planet, all life. Until we reach that phase, technology will carry dangers to all life.

7. Humanity in general has no respect for life outside of human life. We continue to use, abuse, torture, dismiss, and consume our 2D brothers and sisters (animals).
is it possible to package catalyst, in the form of abuse and torture?
Should every being go to the same place at the cessation of the physical complex?

Are you saying it's okay for humans to abuse and torture innocent 2D entities? If so, why? Is it a human responsibility to set up negative catalyst for 2D creatures? Is it your responsibility to control the catalyst of a friend or family member?