A Better World | Or the Status Quo I often hear individuals speak of religion and how it can become oppressive. And as we look across the world, there is certainly a lot of harm done in the name of God. But lets also recognize that religion is not the only anti-progressive force in the world—there are other enemies of the future. Some oppose progressive ideas even if they are advanced by the religious. Consider how political conservatives, virtually all of whom profess to be Christians, denounce Pope Francis’ role in re-establishing Cuban-American relations, his criticism of unfettered capitalism and vast income inequality, and his warnings about the dangers of climate change. The plutocrats and despots hate change, especially if it affects their wallets. The beneficiaries of the status quo don’t want a better world—they like the one they have. How then do we make a better world? What will guide us in this quest? For there to be a worthwhile future we need at least three things: 1) knowledge of ourselves and the world; 2) ethical values that promote the flourishing of conscious beings; and 3) a narrative to give life meaning. Letting go of what is allows us to begin the journey of what can be... Seeking knowledge and truth allows us to not be misled by dogma and expired tradition. Living ethically causes us to care more deeply about one another - and not allowing our neighbor to be hungry. And giving life meaning - for ourselves and for one other - gives hope. When we have hope of something better, when we can see it in our mind - we have then the opportunity to make the world better.
Posted on: Sun, 25 Jan 2015 13:59:38 +0000
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