You then have two choices - and in an enlightened society, both of them would be supported both morally and practically. The choices are: a) suicide b) learn to live in a way that minimizes the amount of suffering in yourself and in others (i.e. awakening)
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Replying to @Failed_Buddhist @KennethFolk
An enlightened society would be one that is totally honest with itself about the human condition. Dharma shouldn't be esoteric knowledge; it should be a human right. The "what now" question is one everyone should confront, and each person should be allowed to make their choice.
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Replying to @Failed_Buddhist @KennethFolk
If I placed sugar cube in my mouth and then were tasked with explaining my sensation of taste at that moment to a person who has never tasted sugar at all that would be "esoteric knowledge". People get hung up over "esoteric knowledge".
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Replying to @fuzzylogic8250 @KennethFolk
I was working with the dictionary definition of esoteric, which is "intended for or likely to be understood by only a small number of people with a specialized knowledge or interest". Dharma is something you have to seek out, whereas it should be taught in every school.
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Replying to @Failed_Buddhist @KennethFolk
I think teaching dharma in school if fine but good luck that that, realistically speaking. However, I think the definition, while plenty of wiggle room open for meaningful discussion, is exactly the definition of dharma. Not by design or intent. Just, not everybody is into it.
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Replying to @fuzzylogic8250 @KennethFolk
Agreed. Realistically, I don't see that happening any time soon -- if ever. Which is a real shame, because I think the project of building a functional civilization is doomed unless we collectively wake up first. We can't create a better reality if we're deluded about this one.
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Replying to @Failed_Buddhist @KennethFolk
So do you see the inability to collectively wake up and the deluded nature of a society as a reason for one not to practice?
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Replying to @fuzzylogic8250 @KennethFolk
Of course not. I don't think I implied that.
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Replying to @Failed_Buddhist @KennethFolk
My apologies. I do not mean to put fourth that you implied that however I am just asking what do you think?
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Replying to @fuzzylogic8250 @KennethFolk
No apologies necessary. I think practicing is worthwhile even if you live in a society you don't think is ideal. When it comes down to it, the only thing I know with certainty is that there is suffering. So it's worthwhile to try to reduce one's own suffering and that of others.
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Someone pointed out to me that it isn't really useful to fantasize abstract notions of an enlightened society. I think that's a good point. It isn't all-or-nothing. What can we do right now? We can help ourselves and others around us, because that is what's directly addressable.
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Replying to @Failed_Buddhist @KennethFolk
Yeah, I think both statements are very good points.
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