0.2.5 Introduction to Values: Vision

Version 1.1 March 2013                                Previous Version

8. A Reasonable Global Way

We conclude by showing how our analysis (of philosophy, science and history), our review of ways to express values (in religion and culture) and our action guidelines (in personal practice and politics) form a consistent whole.  These beliefs, and the values we choose based on them, are a Reasonable Global Way of life, which gives us meaning, purpose, and grounds for hope.

Is this a religion?

Some will debate whether this Way should be called a religion or described as religious.  it's debatable.  This approach certainly has characteristics that are similar to religion, such as:

●    A universal narrative that describes our origins and our place in the world;

●    An explanation of the origins of suffering and ways we can address it;

●    Exemplary models – stories of people whose examples we can seek to emulate;

●    An appreciation of the mystery of existence and the beauty and majesty of the universe;

●    A wealth of literature which explains, explores and expresses this Way;

Many will prefer NOT to call this Way a religion because of the connotations of that word.

It doesn’t matter what we call it - in some contexts.  Either way, this is a sensible philosophy of life, an emotionally satisfying world view, which we call a Reasonable Global Way.

This collection of beliefs about:   ● the nature of reality,   ● expressing our relationship to it, and   ● actions that are effective in response, guides the choices that reflect our values.

Do our conclusions in these seven domains provide the basis for a reasonable set of values? Click on feedback, or add a comment below, to tell us what you think, or suggest improvements.

We look at a variety of directions we can go to follow this Way:

·       In direct, personally validating action: in self-development and cultural expression;

·       In practical action: public discussion, service to others, politics and education.  more

But the core value we most associate with this vision is Hope: choosing to act as though our choices might better ourselves or make the world a better place.

Having introduced our values, we need to introduce the beliefs we base these on.  What actually are reasonable beliefs about the world?  And what kinds of beliefs are these?  See next page.