What we call progress is a matter of exchanging one problem for another.
A relevant and subtle representation of what we call progress. Progress is generally viewed as rising from the depths of stagnancy to the heights of success, which is basically seen as having more reputed position, earning well, staying ahead of many who share a common field. It is like getting over small problems by enough practice and being prepared to deal with larger ones, which is in a way exchanging of problems.
Secondly, considering the perspective of a country or civilization as a whole, we may define progress as the reduction in troubles of people, their economic advancement, their ability to deal with small mishaps and so on. On learning to overcome small problems, one may say that problems are conquered, but it is not so, it is exchanged with another level of problem that is maintaining the fame, financial stability and social stability to a great extent.
Let’s take an example of company. Initially, it is almost at zero level, which might have been a start-up of an individual or an idea of group of people. 1st problem faced would be capital investment, on attaining it, one may say that a problem was solved leading to progress. Now, once stable financially, the goal is to increase the reach and thus build new customers, so the progress was like exchanging the problem of investment with the problem of building new customers and the same cycle will keep on repeating for earning profits, earning name, maintaining the achievements and later on expanding the company.
On the contrary, one may say that if it is an unending list of problems, why is it termed as progress? To respond to that, people fail to interpret that the problems may not be of same level, they are of varying degrees depending on the place achieved and further goals. Progress is inching one step nearer to the goal which metaphorically is like trying to reach the horizon, it may seem that we are nearing the goal but it is always one step away as human mind desires more and more and is never satisfied with any level of achievement.
Thus, progress demands constant perseverance and though it may seem the efforts made are unending, you are indeed one step closer to success.
Yes very well written the trouble is it’s all a matter of perspective isn’t it as progress can merely mean positioning oneself further forward. However beyond financial construct positional and material success in the world; I we have to ask ourselves morally and emotionally how is humanity progressing as a whole.Unfortunately we seem only to be regressing at the moment not learning from history, not learning how to share, not learning how to prioritise people above monetary value. So therefore I suppose what I’m trying to say is that I wish we would measure progress by the advancement of those suffering the most. E.g. are there less people severely suffering now at this time. Has poverty been improved or abolished in some areas. Unfortunately at this time that is not the case. Obviously due to coronavirus things have declined globally and I fear with yet another war now rearing its head setbacks may be inevitable at this time. Just my thoughts. I hope and pray I am wrong. Working towards empathy and peace in my mind is what the world needs to progress to now. May you be surrounded by love light and blessing my friend always.
ReplyDeleteYes, the world truly needs to unite and work for peace and empathy.
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