Simple philosophy could bring social unity and world peace

By Aaron Engebretson

In a world of “family values,” “political  correctness,” and the ever-present golden rule, it is time for society to ask itself, “Do these philosophies make the world a nicer place?” I think the answer that will come back is a resounding “no.” Everybody is supposed to be thinking about someone else, yet no one does.

As a citizen concerned with the well-being of mankind or humankind, I have labored long and hard to come up with a solution to this vexing problem, and here it is.

The world would be a better place if everyone looked out for one person. Before doing anything, everyone should ask themselves two simple questions, “Does this affect Aaron Engebretson in a positive way?” and if it doesn’t, “Does this affect him in a negative way?” If the action won’t affect Aaron, go ahead.

Not only would my life be improved, but so would all life on the planet. Thinking about me would allow everyone to experience a sense of unity.

Thousands of people go through life feeling that they don’t have the power to make a difference. These feelings can lead to bouts of depression, and eventually a stay in the Betty Ford Clinic. By making life easier for me, everyone would belong to a worth-while cause. This will allow them to get through the tough times by simply thinking “I feel sad and powerless, but I have helped make Aaron happy.” My new philosophy will not only cure the world of depression, it will also finally bring about world peace.

If everyone is thinking, “How will this affect Aaron?” then there would be no more war. Wars are started when two countries or people groups can’t get along. If the world places “How this will affect Aaron?” above everything else, there will be no conflicts because everyone will be working toward a common goal, making the world better for me. Suddenly, no one will have a reason to fight. War will become a thing of the past.

The reader may be asking themselves “How does war affect Aaron?” Well, if there was a war, the U.S. may have to fight, the draft could be reinstated, and I might get drafted. Once drafted I could be wounded or even killed. This would make me unhappy.

Incorporating this new philosophy into the lives of billions of people would be difficult at first. Before anyone did anything they would have to stop and think, “Does this affect Aaron Engebretson in a positive way?” After a week, or so, people would find that they would be able to do most things.

This may seem like a radical idea, but try it. I think you will find that my life and yours will be a lot better.  My philosophy can be summed up with “Ask not what the world can do for you, but what you can do for Aaron.”

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