LEGITIMATE GLOBALISATION: TOWARDS NEW UNIVERSAL NORMS AND VALUES

Change is the law of life. Most of the time change is gradual and imperceptible. However, we notice change only when it is abrupt and radical. While change is inexorable in the time bound reality (as distinct from the time free reality) in which we live, all changes do not necessarily lead to or add up to 'progress.' Yet, we cannot go back, even if we want to. We can only move forward in a linear sense and wisdom lies in channeling this process towards 'progress', i.e., a peaceful, and a more just world order for humankind as a whole. Towards this end it is necessary to conceptualize the contemporary flux the phenomenon of globalization, understand its dynamics and 'manage' it institutionally. To guide humanity in this endeavor we need truly universal norms (standards of right and wrong shared by mankind across all cultures). We must learn to live in harmony with nature, in peace with ourselves and our God, and also at peace with fellow men and the other nations in the world. Humans have no other earthly choice.