Aparigraha the Humane Solution

Author(s): Kamla Jain
Publisher: Parshwanath Vidyapith

Page 29

CONSUMERISM-ANTI-HUMAN GOAL
technology'.
In the field of sports, the competitive spirit and zeal of the sportsmen of national and international level make them establish newer and newer records of achievements in their respective fields. Their achievements are mesmerising. Weight-lifters, boxers and others requiring unusual physical energy do not confine to their real physical energy and strength; many of them cross the barriers of norms by artificial methods such as intake of harmful drugs. The high aspirations for their goals cost them dearly on their physical health in the long run, but still every new record arouses a higher and higher goal in their minds with a complete neglect of physical and moral health. This, again, is a reflection of the consumerist psyche - 'grab as much as you can'.
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There is another area in which consumerism has free play and that is the area of religion. This is an area which ought to spearhead anticonsumerist movement and be very effective. But ironically, this area too has succumbed to the current trend. We notice that religious functions are celebrated with much pomp and show; wealth and money get the best chance to display themselves, and ostentious decorations and related services for religious functions are as eye-catching as for other social functions like weddings, birthdays etc. Religious gurus say so much on what the scriptures say about supramundane and related concepts, but it is difficult to trace something in their discourses against consumeristic modern behaviour. On the contrary they themselves are trying to become consumeristic and are falling in the same trap. Each religious function has a different taste, colour, and sight, since 'different' alone is beautiful. This is the mantra that has pervaded all walks of life; the once- sacred area of religion has also become a prey to consumerist philosophy instead of remaining the stronghold of simplicity, contentment and self-control that it once was.
The Economics of wastage
"The greater the wealth the thicker will be the dirt'. These lines succintly throw light on the economics of wastage. Wastage has become an essential aspect of our present day economic system and affluence. It