Chapter 1: The Spiritual Dilemma of Capitalism

Capitalism may be seen as morally superior to Marxism; however, both share a common underlying principle. One might argue that capitalism is preferable to communism, but that comparison is akin to saying that one disease is better than another. Although it may not be entirely inaccurate, I would personally prefer to avoid both. Both systems reduce humanity to mere economic units, primarily viewing individuals as workers.

These systems undermine our higher spiritual purposes, such as being a father, husband, teacher, poet, and protector. In a truly civilized society, one's role as a worker should be secondary to these more profound identities.

Interestingly, many of Karl Marx’s socioeconomic ideas parallel the thoughts of St. Thomas Aquinas, who is often revered as a key figure in Classical Liberalism and indirectly, capitalism itself. While capitalism is the most effective system we have discovered to facilitate coexistence among those who are fundamentally different, it is still merely the lesser of two evils. At their core, both systems lead to similar outcomes, albeit through different routes.

The disintegration of communal societies into industrial interests is merely a symptom of the traditional cohesion that once sustained pre-industrial life. Just as the Reformation transformed Christianity and the democratization of kingdoms altered the old order, individualistic thought has permeated modern identity.

This ideology offers freedom for its own sake, which ultimately leads to a regression among human beings. The abandonment of higher purposes in favor of a synthetic identity suggests that duty is burdensome, and that tranquility should be prioritized over the struggles that forge individuals into something greater. Consumerism becomes the new tribe, and advertising serves as its language.

The moment a person begins to live solely for themselves, severing their natural connections to others, they cease to be fully human. Unlike other creatures that thrive in balance with nature and their communities, humans can voluntarily reduce themselves to an inferior state by adopting an individualistic mindset, mistakenly believing it to be enlightenment. We have replaced monarchs with lawyers, lobbyists, and lenders.

A man who embodies the roles of a warrior, poet, father, and mentor is a complete human being, while one who defines himself solely by his job title has devolved into a mere function—an insignificant cog in a larger machine. This demoralizing defeat can lead to spiritual desolation, as "there is no prosthetic for an amputated spirit."

Just as a captive wolf discovering freedom faces a broader world than one who has known only the wild, humanity too can suffer from confinement that dulls its spirit. Some prefer to confront loss rather than live in the shadow of fear, as it is better to experience sudden despair than to be slowly eroded by the cancer of hypotheticals.

If you haven't found anything worth dying for, I feel for you. The ideals worth dying for are also the very things worth living for. However, achieving greater meaning in a world where authenticity is commodified can be challenging. Our contemporary culture resembles a virus; to navigate it, one must inevitably consume some of its toxic elements.

In this era of excessive consumerism, it's easy to fall into the trap of defining ourselves by our possessions, consumption, and production. We are inundated with advertisements, social media influencers, and propaganda urging us to buy and sell, as if our identities hinge on these transactions.

As we delve deeper into this culture of consumption, we risk losing our spiritual essence—the part of us that cannot be quantified by what we own or the monetary value of our time. Spirituality serves as a counterbalance to the materialistic forces of capitalism, reminding us that life encompasses more than wealth accumulation.

"Humility is the crown of kings."

— "The 48 Laws of Greatness"

Spirituality encourages us to recognize our interconnectedness with others, nature, and the universe. It fosters virtues like compassion, generosity, and humility—essential qualities for a fulfilling life. By harmonizing the material with the spiritual, we can prevent capitalism from eroding our souls, thus enabling us to live prosperous and meaningful lives, which is the true definition of wealth.

Many individuals grapple with feelings of loneliness and depression, often due to an absence of spiritual fulfillment and a supportive community. Ironically, as affluence rises, so do feelings of isolation, depression, and suicidal thoughts. Artificial connections cannot satisfy the soul.

In modern society, individuals often find themselves detached from the very things and people they rely on, engaging only with what offers instant gratification, such as entertainment or food. This represents a profound disconnect.

I have consistently opposed military intervention in the Middle East, not out of a belief that it is driven by oil, but because it highlights a disconnection. College-educated individuals proclaim "No blood for oil" while driving petroleum-fueled cars and wearing garments produced by children in sweatshops—all purchased through capitalist means. This demonstrates a staggering lack of awareness regarding our interconnectedness.

Many resort to sarcasm, self-deprecation, and politics to vent frustrations, avoiding the confrontation of their issues. They express passive-aggressive sentiments about depression online, lashing out at others for differing opinions.

These behaviors are merely coping mechanisms for those dissatisfied with their lives, feeling powerless to change their circumstances. The truth is, we must wage a war on modern culture. Loneliness, entitlement, depression, high divorce rates, and moral decay are often symptoms of a more significant issue that remains unaddressed.

The good news is we have the power to make a change. We can set aside our devices and engage in meaningful actions. Get to know your neighbors, participate in your local community, and transform your environment into a supportive space where individuals are not just acquaintances but friends and mentors.

Assist the elderly neighbor with her groceries. Spend quality time with loved ones, creating lasting memories in the real world. Strive to be more than just a marketer, writer, driver, or doctor—these titles do not encompass your full humanity. Become a role model in your community, and maintain the same authenticity in real life that you project on social media.

Before You Go

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In this official music video, Lewis Capaldi conveys a heartfelt message about loss and longing, resonating with the themes of finding deeper meaning in life.

The lyrical version of "Before You Go" emphasizes the emotional depth of Capaldi's message, reminding us of the importance of connection and meaning in our lives.