Human beings are hailed as social animals whose existence is
based on interdependence, mutual understanding and willingness to serve for the
purpose of well being of the society. Lots of studies have been done on whether
it is the innate urge of the human being that leads to the social life or it is
the result of the compulsion from the external world. Some argue that it is the
blend of both the genetic factors and social values that lead to attachment.
On the other hand the fact remains that values of
individualism and principles of competition for individual success and affluence
have sabotaged value of interdependence and thereby the significance of
community life. Theories of self-sufficiency, competition and securing affluent
life has paved the way for a new order of life. The promotion of profit based initiatives
and human activities have relegated the human values such as sharing,
interdependence, and ultimately the virtue of social responsibility to the
secondary position.
Before we become the prey to narcissism and cynicism we
should explore the possibilities of reciprocal altruism and value of
interdependence. There are plenty of occasions in life that we can exhibit our
awareness about the fact that we are not mere isolated individuals. Such
awareness should lead to actions that reflect the greater values of being
social in our day to day life. Let us not expect to begin this attitude from
the other end but from within ourselves.
It is the way we love others, contribute for the common good and grow
upward; a way how a cohesive society emerges in spite of all the issues that
hampers the social life.
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