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If you dislike material progress || Acharya Prashant, with BITS Pilani (2022)
Prakrati
1K views
1 year ago
Technology
Consumption
Ego
Spirituality
Scientific Progress
Wisdom
Human Nature
Environment
Description

Acharya Prashant explains that the rejection of technological progress is often rooted in a body-centric perspective where an individual views their own physical existence as the center of decision-making. He argues that scientific advancement is a natural outcome of human curiosity and the deep desire for self-realization through exploring the world. Rather than blaming technology for societal or environmental issues, he points out that historical data on life expectancy and disease management proves the necessity of medical and technological growth. He asserts that humanity has an inherent right to develop, and attempting to arrest this growth is both impossible and unnecessary. The real problem, as identified by Acharya Prashant, is the combination of economic power and spiritual degradation, which leads to excessive consumption. He notes that the Earth is currently overcrowded and overstretched, and the ego-driven lust for consumption threatens the planet with annihilation. He emphasizes that while the supply of technology and goods cannot be stopped, the demand side must be addressed by enlightening the consumer. The negative side effects of modern developments are not caused by technology itself but by a lack of spiritual maturity. Therefore, the focus must be on educating the masses and awakening wisdom to ensure that the users of powerful technology are sane and responsible.