In 'On the Origin of Species', Charles Darwin considered evolution whilst this book considers the diversity that evolution has created. Evolution and diversity probably commenced at a similar time; both have largely been out of our control and both can be extremely cruel. Whether evolution and diversity are deity designed or purely chance, without either we probably wouldn’t exist or, if we did, life would be totally different. As a species we are developing skills to manage evolution. Apart from willful ignorance in destroying the diversity of species, we can develop skills to reduce some of the negative effects of diversity. Homo sapiens are born with many advantages, but benefitting from and being able to perceive diversity is one of the greatest. Yet this tremendous asset appears to have been given relatively little discussion or research. Diversity includes so many features of our world and our individual lives, but how much do we appreciate it?
Albert Einstein said that “the most beautiful thing we can experience is the mysterious. It is the source of all true art and all science”. Much relating to diversity remains mysterious. In this fascinating book Robin McMahon provides some unique insights to help us to discover our own answers.
The Selfish Ego Diversity Challenge
There is much in the news about the rich not doing enough for the poor, and whilst this is part of the story, wealth is only part of human diversity. Discussed in On the Origin of Diversity are some of the tremendous benefits that donors can receive to the quality of their lives, including reduced stress and depression.
It is easy to campaign for the rich to pay more tax if you are poor, or to campaign for people to gift some of their wealth, when you have no wealth to give. Justice is not just about trying to ensure that people get what they are entitled to; it is about being prepared to do what is good for others, sometimes at personal expense, for people who are disadvantaged, especially those who cannot help themselves.
Would you offer or accept a bribe if it benefited you: research suggests that given the option bribery is much more common than many people think. Many of us think that we are unselfish, but are we?
If you are genuinely interested please e-mail me and I will send you a questionnaire (please allow up to 14days for a reply).
If you are able to help promote the Challenge, please forward details to potentially interested people, or let me know if there are other ways you can help.
If you are able to help the disadvantaged improve the quality of their lives, or know of someone who does, please let me know, so we can celebrate their work.