I'm going to start off, very simply, by saying that I don't think it is healthy to give up one's consciousness in search of a "higher" one. First of all, I'm not even sure that there is some sort of a higher level, be it Nirvana or simply pure inner peace: these things are goals, and yet it's unclear if these goals are truly attainable.
Second, our consciousness is what allows us to function in society. Without any sort of strong inner views, it seems as though it would be very difficult to even get along on a day-to-day basis. If everybody sacrificed themselves in this manner, it seems possible that some sort of uber-peaceful, deep society would exist, but if only a small amount people would do this, it would be difficult to maneuver in society.
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Sure, this is what you believe, but you seem to be ignoring the view of someone who has devoted their life to finding Nirvana or the higher one. It is obviously unhealthy to give up your consciousness, but if you grew up say in a Buddhist temple it would be a very common thing for people to devote themselves to the ultimate goal everyone is trying to reach. It's really not about how attainable the goals really are, but the risks one must take to truly know if it is real.
ReplyDeleteHi, Zach. I’m glad to see you taking a clear position, but remember the one main content rule regarding blog posts: explore the possible answers first, then take a position. Show me you’re actively considering the options.
ReplyDeleteSome interesting points raised, but I have many questions since you raise points then seem to move on to the next one.
For instance, you say that "Without any sort of strong inner views, it seems as though it would be very difficult to even get along on a day-to-day." Isn't the reverse true? Strong views tend to be the source of much conflict, making day to day getting on very difficult for some. This needs clarification.
You also suggest that in only a minority of people got past their own ego/consciousness that a peaceful society wouldn't result. Even if only one person shed his or her consciouness, wouldn't the result be very peaceful for that one person? Why does it take more?