Many people want to help to build a better world. Some may follow one or more of the following approaches. They may choose to be protestors, problem solvers and positive contributors.
Different people express these approaches different ways. Let’s explore how they may translate these into action.
Some People Choose
To Be Protesters
Some people protest about what is happening in the world. They may be concerned or angry about what they see as cruelty, injustice or immorality.
Such people may choose to stand for what they believe in or against something that goes against their beliefs. They may do this in a peaceful way, a provocative way or another way that gets publicity.
Erica Chenoweth’s research is often quoted regarding the power of peaceful and non-violent strategies bringing about change. Here is an excerpt from an article that David Robson wrote for the BBC website.
There are, of course, many ethical reasons to use nonviolent strategies.
But compelling research by Erica Chenoweth, a political scientist at Harvard University, confirms that civil disobedience is not only the moral choice.
It is also the most powerful way of shaping world politics – by a long way.
Looking at hundreds of campaigns over the last century, Chenoweth found that nonviolent campaigns are twice as likely to achieve their goals as violent campaigns.
And although the exact dynamics will depend on many factors, she has shown it takes around 3.5% of the population actively participating in the protests to ensure serious political change.
Some People Choose
To Be Problem Solvers
Some people channel their energy into finding solutions. They may aim to do this want acting as a health worker, technician, scientist or in another role. They want to improve life for people and the planet.
Some people begin following the problem solving route relatively early in life. Some may do this by taking apart and then reassembling a computer, bike or other object. Some may do it by tackling other challenges.
Some people may try to solve problems involving people. They may become leaders when helping friends or classmates to solve problems. Some may even act as peacemakers between their parents.
Different people focus on different activities when aiming to solve problems later in life. Some do this as individuals, some participate in teams that try to find solutions to challenges.
Marie Curie pioneered radiation in the treatment of illnesses. Peter Benenson founded Amnesty International to campaign for the release of political prisoners. Dame Cicely Saunders helped to found the modern hospice movement.
People who are problem solvers may feel they are being reactive by tackling existing challenges. They recognise that some problems stem from deep seated that will continue to create damage.
Such people may be frustrated designers. They want to be proactive and design things that show a better way. Sometimes this can lead to them moving on to the next stage.
Some People Choose To
Be Positive Contributors
Some people have a service ethic and want to make a positive contribution. They want to do their best to encourage both present and future generations.
Some people learn this approach early in their lives. They may have parents, teachers of other people who encourage them do things that help other people.
Some people take this approach as they get older. They recognise that they are small in the great sweep of history. Building on their strengths, they aim to do work that helps people or the planet.
Jonas Salk, for example, created the first vaccine for polio and chose not to patent the treatment. He wanted to make it freely available to people around the world. Here is a quote from The Salk Institute website.
Jonas shared a simple yet profound statement. ‘Our greatest responsibility is to be good ancestors.’ This quote encapsulates a timeless truth that speaks to the core of our humanity and our duty to future generations.
Different people make a positive contribution in different ways. They may do this when acting as parents, educators, artists, writers, singers, scientists, inventors, architects or in other ways.
Some aim to create a positive environment in which people can grow. Some do superb work that helps people or the planet. Some pass on knowledge that helps people to shape a positive future.
Many people want to help to build a better world. Some may choose to be protestors, problem solvers and positive contributors. Some may combine elements of these approaches.
Looking ahead, can you think of a situation where you may want to follow one or more of these routes? How can you do this in your own way? If you wish, try tackling the exercise on this theme.
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