Our Hearts Littering The Topsoil

It's not hard to understand why many see emotion as a key characteristic of the human race. In almost all our interactions with other humans (and in some cases, animals as well) there is usually a degree of emotion involved. While there is nothing wrong with expressing emotions appropriately, I believe their influence should be greatly minimised when problem-solving issues that affect our survival as a race. Too many times throughout history we have let "what is right" trump "what is best" and this has come at a cost to the quality of life of the average human on this planet.

So what are the main obstacles that prevent us from doing what is best? There are a few. One is the idea of "morality", which is a complex topic I wish not to delve too much into. What I will say is that whether you believe "morals" come from God, authoritative bodies or society itself, to think of them as concrete and rigid is illogical. Despite the wishes of some, "morals" have changed over the span of history and have been dependent on the society in which they existed. Sometimes they need to change in order to adapt to the times of which they exist.

A second factor that keeps us from doing what is best for our survival, security and prosperity is the fear of hurting the "feelings" of others. Now, I do not wish to suggest that we should disregard the feelings of other people when making decisions, rather that we should treat their feelings as a variable that cannot be directly controlled, and therefore not to elevate it critical levels of priority.

A third factor that interferes with our ability to determine what is best for us is the idea that we are all "equal". Not all societies and cultures share the same ideals, priorities and values. There are a variety of cultural, religious and societal differences between many different groups throughout the planet. Some of these are productive to the cohesion of the planet as a whole, others are simply destructive.

A fourth obstacle is the fear of "judgement and ridicule" we will likely receive from others if we decide to do what is best. This is a big one. As much as we hate to admit it, the vast majority of us strive for other people to like and respect our reputation as individuals. When that expectation is threatened, we go into panic mode and attempt to distance ourselves from being labelled or categorised negatively.

If we are to truly prosper as a race, we need to overcome these obstacles and accomplish peace, our survival and prosperity on this planet. The old ways are not working and we need to be courageous and innovative in our approach to achieving what is best.

Emotion rules the day.

It clouds our reason and our ability to make decisions clearly.

What people need to do is learn to control their emotions. This reduces the tendency to over react.

Hard to do when every things the "rage" and adult children control the country.

a reply to: intrptrEnjoyed reading, well said.

Somebody like's emo music.