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started. Thus commenced the tree-by-tree destruction of an extensive and ecologically balanced natural system. Surprising is the complexity of the balance in nature and how precariously it depends on the interdependence of its multiple components.
The present state is that in spite of all our efforts of the last fifty years, we have failed to put noticeable brakes on the continuing environmental degradation. It is high time for some radical thinking and action. Limiting needs at the individual and social levels can prove to be an effective measure in this direction. Once again the required ingredients are inbuilt in the ahimsa way of life.
CONSUMERISM
One of the major causes of intolerance leading to violence as well as environmental pollution in the modern world is consumerism. It sounds strange but is very true. A simple and benign looking thing can, in the long term, cause psychological changes that have a far-reaching influence in many other areas in the system. Consumerism is a two-edged sword. On one side, it systematically depletes natural resources, polluting and destroying the environment as a consequence. On the other side, it breeds destitution, disparity and discontent leading to terrorism.
Basically and essentially we consume to survive. Next comes comfort, and then ambition. In every human society, as evident from the history of this planet, ambition necessarily overtakes need and comfort at some point of time. If this onslaught of ambition is not curbed and bridled, it eventually leads to collapse. This has been happening time and again since the beginning of human history, but we fail to learn a lesson. We continue to fall into the same trap and AHIMSA: THE SCIENCE OF PEACE 130
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