INDIVIDUAL
TOTAL INDIVIDUAL FREEDOM. TOTAL COMMUNAL CONTROL
If you’re confused by today’s debates over whether to have a bigger or smaller government, you’re not alone. Both sides present solid arguments, which is why people become so passionate and create political problems. The solutions to our deep-seated differences cannot be found in extreme politics. Governments change frequently, yet the causes of our disputes remain. Unfortunately, people often remain entrenched in their preferred philosophies and disregard our spiritual nature.
In the modern era of the internet, things have changed. We’re discovering that the politics of belonging have deeper roots than previously thought, extending into families, friendships, and other human relationships. Even when there are no personal benefits involved, people still go to great lengths to harm each other and are willing to destroy democracy just to see their political party win. If you investigate what drives this animosity, you may find it rooted in a quest for security. Whether this security is genuine or not is beside the point, as people are often hurt by their own groups. Humans have always sought security, whether in primitive times or today’s urban environments. However, as social creatures, humans cannot achieve true security due to the inevitability of mortality. Fearful living is a product of our physical side, while our spiritual side can liberate us from constant insecurity.
Each time a mass shooting occurs in America, people recognize the need to upgrade their security systems. As we continuously evolve, our needs shift in response to the demands of the times. A critical look at our security systems reveals that individual stress levels are a key factor in their effectiveness. Security measures like fences and walls have been successful against animals but are less effective against other humans, who can be just as cunning as those protecting themselves. In my opinion, we are best protected when our levels of education and spiritual awareness are high. People who respect others’ property and lives are more likely to envision themselves on the receiving end of their actions and self-regulate. While gun control is crucial, as emotions can be influenced by hormones, the argument that having more guns will lead to self-restraint is outdated. In rapidly evolving mega-cities, where rules and law enforcement are essential, fearing each other doesn’t make sense. To live in large societies, we must learn to adapt and self-regulate. Unfortunately, even minor traffic incidents can escalate into violence. Parents and loved ones want us to return home safely, so it’s not just gun control that matters; it’s individuals’ ability to manage their emotional responses. In modern mega-cities and nations, a larger government is necessary. Most people prefer not to handle their own security and are willing to pay for protection, resulting in larger police forces. Those influenced by conservative ideologies might lean toward gun ownership and the death penalty, differing from more liberal views. Transitional periods bring more problems, but over time, people learn to trust the system. Nations with larger governments often rank higher on happiness scales because reducing stress contributes to overall happiness.
To understand the security systems of today’s mega-cities, one must consider the rules in place, such as traffic laws, police, and justice systems. While no system is foolproof, we gauge their effectiveness by percentages and make comparisons accordingly. Comparing societies with and without guns shows a clear preference for gun control among governing authorities. On the other hand, if people distrust their governing authorities, they may opt for self-security, which reflects an outdated approach. Security systems have evolved, and like traffic rules, we need to follow new rules that prevent crimes such as rape, robbery, or murder without repercussions. We cannot let our hormones dictate how we live. The “dog-eat-dog” philosophy is not suitable for social creatures like humans, so extreme freedom can be harmful to both individuals and society. Balancing freedom and government power is essential for effective functioning. A balance where neither the mass nor the individual dominates is ideal, and this balance must be achieved spiritually. Clearly defined rules and willingness to comply come from individuals, so education and trust between individuals and the government are crucial.
Studying why drunk driving rates have decreased can offer insights into how perceptions of security influence behavior. As humans, we have always relied on numbers for security, established long before fences and walls. Law and order require individual cooperation and understanding of the underlying issues. We are taught that strength lies in numbers, and our politics often revolve around this principle. Even a large bull can be taken down by predator cats, just as a single human cannot stand against a mob, especially with modern weaponry. Our taught knowledge assumes that our groups will support us, fostering loyalty to the politics of belonging.
Yet, even strangers sometimes intervene to help victims of social crimes. What triggers this urge to help? It may not be related to group loyalty but rather our spiritual side, which provides us with free will and a personal sense of justice. Our actions are not solely driven by security but also by our spiritual nature, which speaks a language not everyone understands. Deep down, we know that, for us mortals, security is an illusion created by political entities. Understanding this reality—that no real security exists against mortality—can significantly impact one’s happiness and contentment. Security systems are designed for group survival, which can continue indefinitely.
The size and power of government are shaped by the people, especially in democratic societies. In today’s world, freedom of speech and individual rights are essential. Individuals expect to receive help by calling 911, and emergency systems are set up by current governments. However, a small, powerless government might struggle to address these needs effectively. Security concepts—whether financial, material, or physical—continue to evolve with us. From primitive times to modern scenarios, where everyone is armed or carrying nuclear weapons, the individual remains central. Individual insecurities play a significant role in both personal and collective lives, and groups have their own agendas for security. Politics of belonging drive individuals to sacrifice for their groups, reflecting the ongoing influence of these dynamics.
To see real change, we need to start by addressing the root causes of our issues. Only an insecure individual would avoid taking responsibility for their actions, especially when those actions are carried out in the name of their group. Such individuals may not hesitate to commit spiritual crimes against even the innocent. Our spiritual nature encourages us to think of others and to help, particularly those who are innocent. If we are spiritually aware, we would avoid personal guilt, as it conflicts with our own sense of autonomy. As a political group, we often disregard what happens within the individual, prioritizing the mass over the individual. This lack of spiritual justice is inherently unequal; true justice should be universal and equitable, whether between individuals, or between individuals and corporations, nations, religions, or other groups. In matters of justice, we each have personal responsibilities, and as groups, we must plan for the long term to ensure our survival. For example, we should address issues like global warming and environmental pollution and establish systems to tackle health care and prevent diseases like COVID-19, Zika, and other reproductive disorders.
LOGICALLY SPEAKING, HEALTH CARE IS NOT SOLELY AN INDIVIDUAL RESPONSIBILITY, AS DOG-EAT-DOG SOCIETIES PROMOTE. It impacts the community as a whole, so nations should focus on preventative measures for the future. While some may argue that expanding government powers is a form of socialism and therefore objectionable, group responsibilities are essential for social creatures, regardless of their origins. This issue revolves around individual and communal security; neglecting it is akin to burying your head in the sand, avoiding potential future problems. Individually, we are more insecure than at a communal level due to our mortality. No matter how aware individuals are of their mortality, their decisions will be influenced by personal insecurities. Since we are not solely physical beings, we must also consider our lives and related matters spiritually.
The recent failure of the Texas government exemplifies the dangers of granting total freedom to insecure individuals. Conversely, a socialist government that mismanages finances and goes bankrupt represents an opposing extreme. It is not about choosing one extreme over another but finding balance within this triangle. While socialism might benefit society, if it comes at the expense of individual justice, it constitutes spiritual injustice. Equal human rights should apply not only between individuals but also against the mass.
Individually, we are all vulnerable and will eventually need help from others, regardless of our power. What I am suggesting is that we must create a personal balance between security and freedom. Although we no longer live in the jungle, where we had to protect ourselves from predators, we still need security in our urban environments and from our own kind. As social creatures, we cannot have total freedom; societies require rules to be followed. At the same time, we cannot live like bees or ants, as humans are distinct. We cannot cede all our powers to our communities. Living in a fully controlled socialist, communist, or authoritarian setting would stifle individuality. Therefore, the optimal position is in the middle of this triangle, where you can assert your rights when pushed by individuals, corporations, governments, or even religions, despite feeling weak and vulnerable. Equal human rights must extend against the mass to ensure personal happiness because we inherently believe in equal justice. Past experiences show that unjust mass systems, whether governmental, religious, or authoritarian, fail because they contradict human nature. Democracy is popular because it aligns with our understanding of human nature. Although we have inherent hormonal needs to belong, our spiritual side governs our true happiness and contentment.
As mortals, we need a balance of both material and spiritual elements to be truly happy. Our happiness is not solely tied to physical comforts; our spiritual side also requires nurturing. We experience guilt and lose happiness when we neglect our spiritual needs. Although this is a personal choice, deep happiness is one of the ultimate purposes of our mortal lives.
Why not embrace the best of what humanity offers? Democracy and equal human rights are among the greatest advancements we have made. Balancing this triangle, at least at the individual level, will help us lead successful mortal lives. Our greatest challenges stem from the politics of belonging to our groups. Prejudice, discrimination, and political injustices are related to our group mentality. Balancing this triangle individually can be beneficial, but groups often disregard individual perspectives, focusing on the mass instead. This mentality can make individuals feel insecure and seek refuge in group politics. To create change, you must first recognize your role as a personal CEO, appointed by God, and fulfill your responsibilities to both the community and yourself. Equality in human rights must be extended to others for it to work effectively.
If you are insecure and hoard resources to protect yourself while making others poorer, you are receiving without giving due to your insecurities. Extremes always lead to chaos, whether in immediate personal suffering or long-term communal downfall. We should not only think but also educate our children about collective responsibilities. Short-term gains and losses are characteristics of physical living, while humans, being more than physical entities, must think long-term and beyond our own lifetimes. Spiritual fulfillment is crucial. If you want your descendants to live comfortably, consider their security beyond material needs.
If people believe the government should help individuals in need, then it may be necessary to grant more power to the government, similar to socialism. However, we need some form of government because we no longer live in primitive conditions. The “dog-eat-dog” philosophy does not work in human societies due to our spiritual nature. We feel good when we help others. If you oppose socialism and advocate for individual freedom, you must recognize that we are social creatures who require a factual understanding of our nature.
We evolved from a time when we had to coexist with other creatures and remain constantly alert to avoid becoming prey. Today, while we are no longer on the food chain, we still need to be cautious of our own kind. Evolution occurs through facing challenges; by thinking beyond immediate problems, we find solutions. From building walls to creating military defenses, everything was aimed at reducing stress. In essence, we traded some freedom for security and stress-free living. We created a “big brother” in the form of governments and religions, seeking security even in death. Extreme insecurity can be considered a mental health issue, and acknowledging our mortal nature is crucial. As independent beings, we function independently but also possess autonomy, free will, and a personal sense of justice, compassion, and choice.
Our personal functioning is still evolving, and we often wonder why others do not think or feel as we do, leading us to seek like-minded individuals. Human societies worldwide share a common sense of belonging and related politics. This political sense of belonging can sometimes lead us to act against our own nature. Any form of suppression or deviation from our nature will provoke reactions. Although it may feel natural to belong to a group, our thoughts and beliefs influence our feelings. Our hormonal responses reflect this, but our spiritual nature, if nurtured, can significantly influence our actions and thoughts. While living entirely spiritually is not feasible for us, as it would be an extreme, seeking balance is essential for maintaining our human status. Ignoring our spiritual side leads to a life akin to that of an animal, while depriving ourselves of it results in an inferior existence. Remember, unlike bees, we are not programmed to do good but choose to do so.
Whether you are a religious individual or an atheist, if you seek extreme views and expect everyone else to conform to your beliefs, or if you are determined to make everyone think like you, you are an extremist. If you are religious and believe your religion should be followed by everyone, even as a justice system, you may be on thin ice. Believing in things you can’t explain puts you at risk, as you can’t prove that your belief-based justice system would be universally applicable.
Justice must be blind and based on principles such as “don’t do to others what you wouldn’t want done to you or your loved ones.” It cannot be prejudicial or discriminatory. If your devotion to your religion is extreme, be aware that it can affect your hormonal responses, making it difficult for you to work against your physical instincts and provide others with equal human rights. People think differently, believe in different gods, and experience similar hormonal effects from their belief systems. If we are all inspired by our beliefs and influenced by the politics of group belonging, how can we override everything physical?
Everyone is capable of hatred and violence, often with the promise of an afterlife reward. Why would you break your spiritual code and act in ways you wouldn’t want done to you or your loved ones? Extreme beliefs can make it hard to see ourselves as independently functioning spiritual entities. You may have surrendered your autonomy to the politics of group belonging, despite being created with the potential to function as a mini-god yourself. Your atom of autonomy is not only about making responsible choices but also about answering to yourself. This is where guilt arises and can make life feel like hell. While the afterlife remains a mystery, living with guilt can be punishing, so we should focus on how to live our lives fully.
If you or your group believe we should live according to exclusive group politics, you undermine your atom of autonomy because politics and spirituality do not mix. God did not create humans to be worker bees or warrior ants; instead, God distributed autonomy among individuals. Evidence of this can be seen in the everyday good deeds performed by ordinary people. With our atom of autonomy, we turn spiritual thoughts into physical actions. Unfortunately, some of us reduce ourselves to angels, bees, or ants because we cannot question the politics of our groups. We must understand ourselves as whole human beings, not just physical entities. Choosing extremes physically leads to a diminished human experience. Exclusively pursuing spirituality can make us forget the joys of being a physical being.
The differences between chimps and humans are minimal, yet we have developed sophisticated cities, nations, and religions, while chimps remain in the bush. Why hasn’t their evolution mirrored ours? We are not just another smart animal; we must learn more about ourselves before claiming to understand God. Let’s start with fundamentals and ask serious questions: Did God create everything, including humans? Or have humans evolved enough to recognize the importance of God in our lives?
When I reflect on my own makeup, it is astonishing to think about and feel spiritually about God. How can we be a blend of physicality and spirituality simultaneously? We are still evolving and far from fully understanding ourselves, let alone God. Why do we kill each other over beliefs that are still evolving? Our understanding is a work in progress.
Scientifically, we are discovering that our spiritual side can influence our physical health. Stress connects to physical illness, and our health is not solely determined by physical factors. Thinking and believing in spiritual ways can have a positive impact on health. Although this may not be scientifically proven today, we should continue questioning all aspects of our knowledge, including religion and spirituality.
If you find benefit in having a belief system, that’s fine, but if you egotistically claim you are 100% right and everyone who disagrees is condemned, I will question it. Just as I would question those who do not believe, I ask: If you are constantly learning, how can you claim your knowledge is complete, especially concerning God? Is your certainty related to political loyalties or low self-esteem that compels you to speak passionately to avoid questioning?
For thousands of years, we have claimed to have complete knowledge, yet the world continues to change and evolve. Where do you think the disconnect lies? As groups, our motive may be political power and control, but as individuals, why not question your own behavior? You see your evolution year after year, yet you may not question the politics of your belonging.
Even though we don’t grow horns or wings like devils or angels, we are constantly evolving. The world around us changes within our lifetime. We no longer need to consult a guru, as we have access to information through technology. We need to make sense of things by questioning everything physical, while spiritual matters are more complex.
To understand God, examine yourself critically—physically, biologically, emotionally, mentally, scientifically, and spiritually. Consider the complexity of your body: ten trillion cells, hundreds of trillions of bacteria, and three million genes. How does a single cell function within your body? That’s how you function within the body of God. Is it far-fetched? Try understanding your complexity and then multiply it by seven billion to grasp the body of humanity and God. Should we work together and in synergy? What image do you have—one of a monster or a compassionate entity?
I prefer to focus on simple, everyday reality rather than magical or miraculous beliefs. Those who seek only the extraordinary may overlook the simple facts of life. If you believe only your group is right, you may not see God in humanity or humanity in God. This suggests you view yourself as a distinct part of the body, functioning independently. While we are designed to be independent, our connection to the body of God is undeniable. Our ability to live on Earth and beyond, with the help of a spiritual source, is also undeniable. Even if you understand the science behind oxygen, spirituality provides a deeper sense of connection.
Despite racial, religious, and political differences, we have been mingling and evolving together. Bigotry, prejudice, and discrimination have always been part of our journey, but the ability to live together is evident worldwide. Living and letting live, and granting equal human rights, is natural at the individual level but becomes challenging under the influence of group politics. Our differences extend beyond race, color, gender, nationalism, or religion. We must learn to live together despite these differences, and our political views should not reduce us to mere animals. Our intelligence is meant to understand spirituality and create balance between our animalistic and spiritual sides. This balance cannot be achieved by giving total freedom to individuals or total power to communities. It is about personal and communal spiritual justice. Since true security is elusive, we need to create balance rather than choose between security and freedom.