I believe in the Value of thought
I believe in the value of thought. The only skill human’s hold over all other creatures is the ability to think cognitively. Our minds have allowed the human race to advance far beyond other living organisms. With religion, philosophy, concepts and constructs people live in a much more complex society. This ability, although amazing, is sometimes a heavy burden to bear. We, as humans must use thought to it’s greatest potential for it is our sole advantage in this world.
Conflicts, dilemmas and problems vary from one person’s bad hair day to the world’s energy crisis. If we would simply stop and rationally think out these issues, I believe we could solve them all. Open minds and willing hands create incredible experiences.
In the early ages humans lived all over the planet without knowledge of other societies. Blind to diversity, each individual community organized their own governments, religions and morals. In a more modern world, mankind has connected all cultures together in a global community. New sights and experiences have helped us all to understand more about ourselves, but they also bring conflict. When cultures from around the world interact they experience different norms and customs. As people do this it is natural for them to feel uncomfortable, which leads to conflict, and in turn, war.
This phenomenon occurs as a basic function within our minds. It can range in scale from a simple disagreement between friends to a religious war between countries. Although the gap is wide, all of this can be resolved with the only tool we all share. Thought.
Arguing with a friend is easily ended by logical thinking and healthy discussion. Despite the change in scale, rational thought is the answer to global issues as well. Oil disputes, religious differences and global warming are only problems when our leaders view and present them as such. Mankind has created an unbelievable collection of knowledge, history and information. This is proof of our skills. Working collaboratively, there is no challenge humans can’t face.
As I wrote this speech a favorite quote came to my mind. Edward Abbey, desert anarchist, once said:
“One can imagine a sane, healthy, cheerful human society based on no more than the principles of common sense, as validated each day by work, play, and living experience. But this remains the most utopian and fantastic of ideals.”
Common sense, cognitive thought, rational thinking; the label is unimportant when compared to what it means. One day I hope to be a part of a logical, open-minded global community.
