Being ethical in a material world

[blossoming_tree]

Here's my dilemma: Since I was 16, I've been active in projects relating to the UN MDGs. These have ranged from raising AIDS awareness to environmental sustainability and fair trade. It's come to my attention that being ethical is really hard in today's society. For example, I saw a rather nice faux-green leather handbag in Primark for £2 ($4).

Comments

[nivation]

Realising the best things in life are free can never be under estimated. I guess you have to ask how many of our material possesions are fundamentally required for contentment, and whether the 'ethical' answer could be to let go of as many of them as possible.

Equally, if living a material life means you can't function in society then that's not very good, as the most productive change occurs between you and the people around you, I think (be the change! :-) ). It's about getting the balance. I know I'm no where near it!

Re: Thank you!

[nivation]

I think the first sentence was also pretty funny, "a rather Capitalistic society" - yeah, to say the least! Although yes, it doesn't top the last one

Re: Thank you!

[nivation]

I mean imperial!

Ethical living

[acme]

I have been having similar thoughts lately too. I too have begun to make changes in my life in order to live more ethically and less materialistically. My focus thus far has mostly been on being kinder to our environment. Less waste, less meat, more organic, more recycling, less chemicals in the home, conserving water, etc etc. In doing this, I have found that I generally have a greater consideration in everyday life regarding how ethical my actions are and what consequences they really have.

p.s. How did you come accross my journal? I'm curious. :)

Re: Ethical living

[blossoming_tree]

Yes, it's become a aspect of life I'm trying to focus on more and more. It's frustrating that we can't live sustainably, but I'm trying to maintain a lifestyle which involves conscious efforts of trying to buy ethical goods in the hope of leading by example. A quote which changed by life was 'You must be the change you wish to see in the world.'

We share a few similar interests, namely Tracy Chapman. 'The Promise' is my favourite song, it holds a lot of memories. Your seemed like someone I would most like to become friends with in that list (it turns out we both have similar icons and work in the health profession too). Feel free to browse my journal and see if you feel the same :) Jen x

[luminaireimages]

hey there I stumbled across your journal via hawaii_weddings, and I'd like to add you as a friend =)