#society problems

Paper.

PAPER.

Money is paper.

And I don't mean faith in a purely religious or even spiritual sense — although it can be. Some people carry so much faith in their bodies that you can see the glint of it in their eyes as they move through the world. It’s a deeply magnetic trait to have.

I've come to realise that the remedy to the nihilism embedded in capitalistic cultures is to have faith — to hold onto something worth living for and believing in. People who engage with their faith move with a confidence that soothes the existential angst of those around them. If you've ever felt the pressure to make a meaningful life amidst cynical co-workers, family members, friends, and teachers, you'll be pleased to know this: we all have a choice.

Faith, in its simplest form, is a belief in something greater than nihilistic disillusionment. It’s the quiet assurance that there’s more to life than what we’re often told. It's a belief in ourselves, in others, or in the beauty and possibilities that surround us daily.

When the world feels overwhelming, when grief feels unbearable, or when things just aren’t aligning, you can assign your own sense of meaning and capture moments that bring you lasting warmth. You’re allowed to have faith in the magic of the mundane.

In a world that often tries to strip us of meaning, the most radical act we can commit is to believe in something — even if it's just the possibility of a brighter future. Faith is not a certainty, but a choice. And in choosing it, we anchor ourselves to hope, resilience, and purpose.

Selfishness has long been considered a negative trait in society, often associated with greed, egotism, and a lack of consideration for others. However, in modern society, selfishness has increasingly become a valued trait, with individuals encouraged to prioritize their own needs and desires above all else.

There are several reasons why selfishness has become more accepted and even celebrated in today's culture. One of the primary factors is the rise of individualism, which places a strong emphasis on personal autonomy and self-expression. In a society that values self-fulfillment and personal success above all else, it is not surprising that selfishness has become a prized quality.Additionally, the advent of social media and technology has played a significant role in promoting selfish behavior. Platforms like Instagram and Facebook encourage individuals to curate an online persona that highlights their achievements and experiences, leading to a culture of self-promotion and narcissism.The competitive nature of modern society also contributes to the glorification of selfishness. In a world that rewards ambition and success, individuals are often encouraged to prioritize their own goals and aspirations, even if it comes at the expense of others.

Furthermore, the breakdown of traditional social structures and values has eroded the sense of community and collective responsibility, making it easier for individuals to justify acting in their own self-interest. In a society that places a high value on personal freedom and autonomy, selfishness is often seen as a natural and necessary trait.

Despite the growing acceptance of selfishness, it is important to recognize the negative impact that this trait can have on individuals and society as a whole. Selfish behavior can lead to conflict, isolation, and a lack of empathy for others, ultimately undermining the social fabric that holds communities together.In order to combat the negative effects of selfishness, it is essential for individuals to cultivate a sense of empathy and compassion for others. By recognizing the needs and feelings of those around us, we can create a more harmonious and inclusive society that values cooperation and mutual support.

Since the Thai are not principle oriented, and with the high value for personal relationships, they also appear not to be strictly law-oriented. In practice, principles and laws are ever-adjustable to fit persons and situations. In other words, laws are rules laid out in papers; but what is wrong or right depends not on the rules, but instead on who the person is or whom the person knows. A prominent Thai businessman ironically described this phenomenon in a seminar: 

We Thai are not a society of law; we are a society of relationship.... It is not what a person has done that's wrong; it's who he is.... If he is your cousin, or your friend, then what he has done is not wrong. But if another person does the same thing, and it's somebody you don't like, then what he has done is wrong...

This clip is profoundly moving and emotionally impactful on multiple levels