Acharya Prashant addresses the disparity between the 'haves' and 'have-nots', questioning whether the possessions of the wealthy are truly worth coveting. He argues that if the entire population aspired to the same level of per capita consumption as developed nations, it would lead to environmental disaster, as current consumption-centric goals are unsustainable. While superficial solutions like subsidies, affirmative action, and social schemes can provide some positive impact, they are limited in scope. For wholesome change, he emphasizes the necessity of an education and social system that encourages right values and helps individuals understand what is truly valuable in life. He asserts that while basic physical needs like food and shelter are essential, human beings have a central, deeper need that distinguishes them from animals. True upliftment requires identifying this fundamental human need and ensuring everyone has access to it, rather than merely chasing material consumption.
