Science has enabled man to make rapid strides on the path of progress and development However, a close look at the sign-posts of progress and the dynamics of development shows that, in the absence of purity of mind and motives, this progress has subliminally been leading the world to a great catastrophe even though it has been leading to material comfort and prosperity. Many examples can be cited of how ignoble intentions have gravely affected the use of inventions and how purity, or lack of it, has often determined our purposes.
For instance, knowledge of the release of atomic energy through nuclear fission resulted not only in building up of atomic reactors for generating power but also, in the first instance, man’s violent tendencies led him to preparing nuclear weapons for massive destruction. Inventions, in the field of industry and engineering, led to more and more machinery and newer and bigger plants but the unsocial intention of making more and more profits by spending less and less, prevented man from taking proper measures for preserving the environment, as a result of which the pollution has, today, reached disastrous proportions.
Not only have man’s selfish motives, aggressive intentions, vindictive tendencies, exclusive ambitions and impulses of arrogance led to the harmful uses of science and technology but also his impure mind has led to over-consumption and wanton plunder of mineral and natural resources so much so that it has resulted in the worrying depletion of non-renewable resources.
In fact, we find that, in a country which has made more industrial progress, the per capita consumption of energy, industrial goods, water and other natural resources is many times higher as compared to their per capita consumption in a lesser developed country and the stainability of this greater consumption has been possible, in many cases, only through one or the other form of exploitation of the undeveloped countries.
Thus, the motive behind development in many cases has been devoid of any feeling of concern for the fellow beings and was often coloured by narrow considerations and, as such, it has caused conflict between nations and has often generated rancour and enmity. Purity of mind and motives is, therefore, imperative for the happiness and well-being of all and for a meaningful and real progress. We must remember that a noble mind guided by a pure intellect is the perfect combination for making the world both comfortable and secure for everyone.- Rajyogi Brahmakumar Nikunj ji
