Meaning: The quote "Here we are 17 years later. Those agencies never did come through." by Jeremy Rifkin, an economist and social theorist, reflects a sentiment of disappointment and frustration with the failure of certain agencies or institutions to fulfill promises or expectations over an extended period of time. In this context, it is likely that Rifkin is referring to governmental or regulatory agencies that have failed to address or resolve a particular issue despite the passage of a significant amount of time.

Jeremy Rifkin is known for his work on economic and social issues, particularly in the context of technological development and its impact on society. He has written extensively on topics such as the impact of automation and digital technologies on the workforce, the potential for renewable energy to transform economic systems, and the ethical implications of genetic engineering and biotechnology.

In the quote, the mention of "17 years later" suggests a prolonged period during which the speaker had been anticipating or expecting action or progress from the agencies in question. The use of the word "never" emphasizes the finality and disappointment of the outcome, indicating that the agencies ultimately did not fulfill their obligations or promises.

The tone of the quote conveys a sense of disillusionment and perhaps a loss of faith in the ability or willingness of these agencies to address the issue at hand. It implies a lack of accountability and a failure of governance, which can be a source of frustration for individuals and communities reliant on these agencies for support or resolution of important matters.

Rifkin's background as an economist and social theorist suggests that the quote may be related to economic or social policies, regulations, or initiatives that have not been effectively implemented or enforced. It may also reflect a broader skepticism about the capacity of institutions to address complex societal challenges.

The quote may resonate with individuals who have experienced similar disappointment or frustration with bureaucratic processes, institutional inertia, or unfulfilled promises from authorities. It highlights the gap between rhetoric and action, and the consequences of institutional failure on the lives and well-being of people.

In the context of contemporary societal and political discourse, the quote could be interpreted as a commentary on the shortcomings of governance, the need for transparency and accountability, and the importance of holding institutions responsible for delivering on their commitments.

It is important to note that without additional context or specific details about the agencies and the issue at hand, the quote remains open to interpretation. However, its underlying message about institutional accountability and the impact of unfulfilled promises is a recurring theme in discussions about governance, public policy, and societal progress.

In conclusion, Jeremy Rifkin's quote "Here we are 17 years later. Those agencies never did come through." encapsulates a sense of disappointment and disillusionment with the failure of certain agencies to fulfill their obligations or promises over an extended period of time. It reflects broader concerns about institutional accountability, the gap between rhetoric and action, and the impact of institutional failure on individuals and society as a whole.