Perspective and Morality

We often ponder the question of what is right and what is wrong. Most of the time, we believe we get the answer right. This is because many answers can be correct, depending on how they are viewed. The key difference lies in perspective, which shapes our moral judgments and definitions of right and wrong.

The Dual Worlds: Interior and Exterior

Perspective is the size of one’s interior world. The exterior world is the tangible reality we all share – the vast, boundless universe filled with galaxies and unexplored places.

In contrast, the interior world is the intimate, unique realm within each living being. This interior world is reflective of the exterior world but is defined by our personal perspectives. Some people’s interior worlds encompass only their immediate surroundings – work, home, family, and friends. For them, other places and people might not exist in a meaningful way within their interior worlds.

Perspective Shapes Morality

The size of one’s perspective within their interior world can significantly influence their moral compass. A limited perspective, where the interior world includes only oneself, often leads to selfish judgments. For such individuals, actions like stealing, hurting, or even killing can be justified if they serve their interests. This narrow perspective values only the self, deeming any act that benefits the individual as inherently good.

However, as one’s perspective broadens to include another person and values them equally, the basis for moral judgment evolves. In this initial stage of expanded self-awareness, a person begins to make decisions that consider the well-being of both themselves and the other person. This means that actions such as stealing or hurting are avoided, as they would harm someone who is now valued within the person’s interior world.

Expanding Perspective for Greater Judgment

As perspective continues to expand, so does the awareness and appreciation of other people’s worth. This broader spectrum of judgment leads to more inclusive and equitable moral decisions.

In our planetary civilization, where the goal is to ensure equal rights for all, it is crucial for our perspectives to include others. Only by expanding our interior worlds to encompass the diverse array of humanity can we begin to discern what is truly right or wrong. This inclusive perspective is essential for achieving equality and justice in our interconnected world.

The Decisive Factor: Environment

The environment plays a key role in shaping our perspective. If we lived in isolation, such as in a forest without group formations like tribes, every action might be considered a right action because it serves immediate survival needs. However, we live in a planetary civilization – a vast, interconnected society. What is right and what is wrong now depends on a planetary perspective. We must consider the impact of our actions on the broader human community to achieve a just and equitable world.