Back in the days when Mahatma Gandhi was trying to throw off British rule from his beloved India, he published a list of what he called the Seven Social Sins in his weekly newspaper Young India.
It challenges what Gandhi felt were the wrong doings of the rich and the British ruling class that were oppressing his country. Considering the current climate in America about the 1% and income inequality, his observations seem apropos to this very day.
Here is his list of the Seven Social Sins, sometimes referred to as the Seven Blunders of the World - which in his mind could lead to anger, chaos, violence, and revolution:
1) Wealth without work.
2) Pleasure without conscience.
3) Knowledge without character.
4) Commerce without morality.
5) Science without humanity.
6) Worship without sacrifice.
7) Politics without principle.
Astounding accusations, aren't they? Which seems to me can apply to the rise and fall of so many nations and cultures all throughout history - starting with Persia and Rome.
Where do the modern-day super rich fit into Gandhi's observations? It's certainly not for me to say or judge, but would depend on how they use their wealth I suppose. Whether for the greater good or merely self aggrandizement.
Thanks for dropping in this evening.
Andrew
Hi Andrew,
ReplyDeleteBalance. Establish balance in all you do. Wealthy folks who're happy have balance, earning riches yet giving freely of their time and talents to make all the difference.
Good points. Thanks!
RB
I completely agree, Ryan.
DeleteIf not mistaken, I think you're paraphrasing The Buddha, right? Socrates, in western culture, had something similar, recommending moderation in all things.
Thanks so much for adding to the topic, and please do stop by anytime.
Andrew
Seriously, I waited three weeks for this?!
ReplyDeleteYour blog is getting more and more boring. You used to write about interesting tips, fascinating nuances about the everyday of the rich, and scandalous events, or at the very least, bills; now, you "answer" questions--that are too vague, subjective, and fruitless to begin with--with a circuitous "I can't tell." I miss the old blog!
-Disappointed Follower
I think what you're missing in the "old blog" is the Missus of the house. I miss her, too. Since the divorce last year, there's no events, no drama, no parties, no glamour, no scandals, no gossip -- lately I've become nothing more than a museum curator around here. Sorry for the disappointment, but until things pick up (or I change jobs) there's not much I can do about it.
DeleteI don't want to drag the blog down into fiction, so my only option is to shut it down, or write on broad general topics about the rich until something more fun pops up.
I appreciate your candor, and for taking the time to give me a rap on the knuckles.
Andrew
This is a wonderful post Mr. Williams. It answers so many questions I have about rich people and the way they live, and if there is any judgement against them to restrain their behavior or keep them in control. It seems in my country we are all so badly oppressed and kept down poor so they can have what they want. Gracias for writing about this.
ReplyDeleteSelena
I appreciate your comment so much, dear Selena, well spoken and well written. I don't know how to console your sadness, except to say that the whole world knows your country is in trouble. My hope is that intelligent people like you can survive, raise your voices, and be effective in change. You're welcome here to voice your concerns at any time. But have you thought about starting your own blog, to raise awareness? You can do so under a pen name, without exposing yourself to danger. I just think your voice needs to be out there. God bless.
DeleteAndrew