World of Philosophy

Author(s): Christopher Key Chapple, Intaj Malek, Dilip Charan, Sunanda Shastri, Prashant Dave
Publisher: Shanti Prakashan

Page 396

Fortunately, it is slowly being acknowledged that traditional beliefs and sacred practices are important elements in conservation of environment.
The opening verse of the Vedanta sutra of Badarayana is "athato Brahma jijnasa" (Here begins the inquiry of Brahman) which says, The purpose of human life is cultivation of consciousness, which includes cultivation of loving relationship between the individual self and the Supreme Self, and in this process matter is also included, i.e. matter is not ignored; but seen in its connection with the Supreme Self.
We have recently heard the Gaia principle, i.e. the idea that the earth is in some sense an organism - has long been recognised in Vedic philosophy.
Further, in trying to ponder on the fundamentals of our increasingly complex nature, it is also realized that the real issue is not overpopulation; it is overproduction and overconsumption that is the underlying cause of most environmental problems.
The principle of 'aparigraha' in Indian thought rightly points out that people are bound by a network of hundreds and thousands of desires and the anxiety for desires is immeasurable until the end of life; more we try to fulfil desires, they keep multiplying ( na jatu kamah kamanam upabhogena samyate). So we must draw a line in having wants and desires. Similarly the sublime and fundamental principle of 'Ahimsa' (non-violence) teaches us 'Harmlessness to all creatures' and also 'Respect for all life'. Such is the wonderful message of philosophy and religion to mankind.
Thus today what we need is to consider and combine the wonderful aspects of science and religion. Science may not be a sufficient condition for wisdom, but it can with adequate philosophical understanding guide us to act wisely. On the other hand as Lao Tze said, "A good merchant even if he has rich treasure hoarded in the ground is no better situated than a pauper. The currency of ancient learning is meant to be taken out from its hoarding place and to be circulated until it reaches the coffers of humanity."
So let us recover the rich heritage of knowledge in every religion and learn the art of living with nature and growing with evolution. "Survival" and "Growth" should be the twin goals of all systems whether in India or abroad.
Putting the wisdom and teachings of the great traditions of the world into practice is though difficult, is not impossible. Alan Durning, a senior researcher at World Watch Institute wrote, "It would be hopelessly naïve to believe that entire population will suddenly experience a moral awakening, renouncing greed, envy and avarice. The best that can be hoped for a gradual widening a circle of those practising voluntary simplicity."
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