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There is a famous proverb in Jainism:
Parasparopagraho jivanam
This famous more than 25 centuries old principle of the Jains we find translated in two ways:
All living beings are dependent on each other;
All living beings are there to help each other.
This in itself forms the basis of a healthy economy as well as ecology. No discussion, conference, report, study is more valuable than such simple religious principles. Contemplation and meditation on such principles (see religion’s core terms) should be part of any educational system.
Vows for a healthy, ethical and sustainable economy
1. The Right Concept of Development
a) I will adhere to the balanced concept of development.
b) I will practice a non-violent life style.
c) In education I will strive to a balanced emotional development.
2. The Right Attitude towards Wealth and Consumption
a) I will abstain from earning such wealth and from such a level of consumption that these [potentially] create social problems.
b) I will abstain from earning such wealth and from such a level of consumption that these [potentially] create reactive violence.
c) I will abstain from earning such wealth and from such a level of consumption that these [potentially] bring forth poverty and hunger.
d) I will abstain from such use of money and a pattern of consumption that give rise to social disparity.
e) I will refrain from engaging myself in such occupations and consumption that lead to pollution and destruction of the environment.
3. The Right Attitude of Consumption:
a) I will refrain from unnecessary consumption.
b) I will exercise self-discipline and discretion even in necessary and essential consumption.
c) I will try to reform criminal mentality.
