Final answer:
The main obstacle to progress with worldwide social problems is the reluctance to accept personal responsibility along with a lack of global cooperation. Issues like climate change and poverty affect global stability and require a global response.
Step-by-step explanation:
The number one problem of why we are not making fast enough progress with solving worldwide social problems is a lack of personal responsibility and global cooperation. Many individuals and societies are reluctant to acknowledge their own contribution to these problems and are quick to assign blame elsewhere.
This unwillingness to accept responsibility is compounded by a diverse range of pressing issues like climate change, war, and political unrest. Additionally, the interconnected nature of today's global economy signifies that these challenges are no longer isolated to certain regions; they are global concerns that necessitate a coordinated effort.
For instance, poverty is a critical issue with economic dimensions that affects global stability, leading to social unrest and impeding economic development. The cycle of poverty limits access to essential services like education and healthcare, which in turn hampers growth and exacerbates the issue. Without a credible global plan and commitment to sustainable living within the limits of our planet, these problems persist and potentially worsen.