Tuesday, August 13th

I hate the accumulation of problems that could easily be solved if we just had more money. It is death by a thousand cuts—not just individually, but for all of society. The most oppressive problems would be trivial if we had more wealth, "the repertoire of physical transformations that one is capable of causing" (Deutsch).

It is insufficient to say that we are the wealthiest we have ever been and, therefore, need a new approach to solve our problems in a more holistic and less industrial way. That is short-sighted because every civilization has always been—and will continue to be—the wealthiest it's ever been. Furthermore, no civilization has survived—or will survive—by "redistributing wealth" or abandoning its importance for the sake of a "holistic approach." The only way to make progress (solve problems) is to become ever wealthier.

As an individual, perhaps you cannot shape the mind of society as a whole. But you can embody the principles and ideals we should strive towards. Be not greedy for the sake of possessions. Be steadfast in your pursuit of knowledge. It will enable you to solve problems for others, which will, in turn, eliminate your problems too.