Ignorance Is No Bliss

Publisher: Common Ground Publishing

E-ISSN: 2327-2147|13|3|1-12

ISSN: 2327-0004

Source: The International Journal of Community Diversity, Vol.13, Iss.3, 2014-01, pp. : 1-12

Disclaimer: Any content in publications that violate the sovereignty, the constitution or regulations of the PRC is not accepted or approved by CNPIEC.

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Abstract

In the 21st century, the cosmos vibrates with conflicts between man and nature, between people and people, and between tradition and modernity. Life in general seems to reflect overall uneasiness and fear of the unknown. Most problems seem to be related to diversity arising from changes in time, space and environment. Hence, ‘ignorance’ cannot serve as ‘bliss.’ It is necessary to understand other cultures and lifestyles. Some of the answers for ending conflicts and suffering have already been analyzed in old traditions such as that of India. Most philosophers of India spent a whole lifetime in introspective analysis of life, individuals, society and the cosmos. For peaceful living, these philosophers have suggested a number of paths or techniques that take diversity into consideration. This paper examines two concepts—knowledge and desire-less action in various philosophies of India and assesses applications for conflict resolution and peaceful living.