How is interdependence possible when selfishness is encouraged?
Synthesized from Source
definition
"Interdependence is not an ethical ideal but the very fabric of life; true intelligence recognizes that giving and receiving are inseparable, and self-interest flourishes only within the whole."
According to Osho, interdependence isn't an ethical ideal opposed to selfishness but the very fabric of life: nothing exists or functions alone. The rose and sun, mother and child, earth, tree, and eater live in mutual exchange. Both absolute independence and absolute dependence are illusions; real intelligence sees the dynamic balance where giving and receiving are inseparable, so 'self-interest' is fulfilled only through the whole.
Even if people tell you to look out only for yourself, you can’t live or grow without others—like flowers need sun and soil—so helping and being helped are part of the same life.
Why this matters practically
- Encourages gratitude and reciprocity instead of isolation.
- Guides choices toward cooperation and sustainability.
- Reduces egoic stress by aligning 'self-interest' with the common good.
- Guides choices toward cooperation and sustainability.
- Reduces egoic stress by aligning 'self-interest' with the common good.
AI Confidence Score: 72%
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