The litany of woes that we visit on ourselves and our planet stem from forming attitudes of ourselves as separate: separate from that country, that habitat, that race, that religion, that society, that creature. And whatever we feel is not part of us is subject to exploitation. Indeed, history is about exploitation backfiring. But it is also about changing attitudes.
People have often used short affirmations to remind themselves and their children of what is important in their lives and to guide behavior. Thus we have formalized numerous prayers and loyalty oaths.
Attitudes towards other peoples and other species are molded during childhood and difficult to change population-wide thereafter. A successful model for instilling values, via a daily oath in schools, is America’s Pledge of Allegiance.
The unifying effect of such a pledge is easily appreciated. However, the flip side of a strong sense of national (or religious) cohesiveness is often the conviction that other peoples are less important or worthy. To say nothing of other species.
A more inclusive sense of belonging needs to be fostered. By widening the group to which we feel connected, we narrow the group we feel justified in exploiting. Eventually the extent of the former eliminates the latter.
More effective than laws are the values we internalize. Instead of fighting a myriad of injustices one by one, we can foster the mindset that tolerates none.
In addition to patriotism, we can expand the loyalty we aspire to instill. It is time to adopt an all-encompassing "World Pledge":
"I am part of a vital unity linking me with all humanity and humanity with all life,
and I resolve to act accordingly so that each may prosper and all may continue."
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worldpledge@yahoo.com
