As has been a central theme throughout the discussions on this blog, our current stage of human history is defined by global interdependence. All forms of government and organization that divide one group against another are simply outdated, ineffective, and frankly detrimental. Progress requires harmony and coordination among and between all levels of society; and thus, the practice of governance – which is an institution that serves to facilitate progress – must be informed by a recognition of humanity’s oneness and interdependence.
The vision of our social body is analogous to the human body, in which diverse elements are integrated together in a unified whole – each achieving well-being through striving for the well-being of the whole, while the well-being of the whole allows the full realization of each parts capacities. As demonstrated with an organism, organic unity is not uniformity – it is harmony of diversity. Similar to biological life, diversity is a source of strength, of creativity, of resilience, of productivity, of adaptation, of beauty; and real prosperity will be achieved when all the diverse elements and segments of society contribute towards governance within a unified and integrated framework.
The means to achieve unity is through justice. The role of a just government, then, is to allow every individual and group the opportunity to build capacity to contribute to the advancement of civilization; as well as to guide collective goals and collective decision-making processes with the aim of the well-being of the whole, and not of one part at the expense of the whole. This necessitates a consultative approach to governance, to allow for diverse thoughts to become harmonized into unity of action. Justice is how unity in diversity occurs.
In your daily life, what are some forms of governance and organization that you encounter?
How are they informed by oneness and justice? How can they be informed by these concepts?
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achieving coherence 