"But the perception of life as an organic unity is a slow achievement, and depends for its growth on a people's entry into the main current of world-events"
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In this quote, Muhammad Iqbal, a prominent philosopher, poet, and political leader in British India who is considered having actually inspired the Pakistan Movement, reflects on the understanding of life as an adjoined, cohesive whole. The "perception of life as a natural unity" suggests the idea that life, in all its elements, is interconnected and interdependent just like the parts of a living organism. This perspective is not simply user-friendly; rather, it is referred to as a "sluggish accomplishment", indicating that such an understanding develops slowly and needs mindful effort and experience to establish. It implies that recognizing the complex interplay in between different elements of life-- specific, societal, and ecological-- takes time and maturation.
Iqbal suggests that this understanding "depends for its growth on an individuals's entry into the main current of world-events". This highlights the idea that engagement with global events and broader worldly experiences is vital for a much deeper understanding of life as a natural whole. In this context, "world-events" might include cultural exchanges, political motions, financial advancements, or technological advances that require countries and people to expand their horizons beyond local or national limits. Through such interactions, individuals end up being more familiar with how interconnected their presence is with others around the world.
Additionally, this quote emphasizes the dynamic nature of cultural and philosophical advancement. As people engage with the wider currents of world history and events, they gain insights that add to the understanding of life as an interconnected entity. This might include comprehending the impact of worldwide occasions on local contexts or understanding the shared destinies of various peoples and nations in a progressively interconnected world.
In essence, Iqbal is promoting for a worldwide point of view that cultivates unity and interconnectedness. By immersing themselves in the wider streams of world affairs, people and societies can cultivate a richer, more integrated understanding of life. This journey towards viewing life as an organic unity ultimately contributes to a collective advancement and improves human experience on both individual and international scales.
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