CHARITY

The greatest mercy is to learn something and then teach it to another person

What is charity?

Charity can be defined as an expression of sincere benevolence towards one's neighbor, which manifests itself in different ways - sometimes in the form of a material gift, sometimes in the form of good advice. Whatever form benevolence takes, it is a sign of natural generosity.
The noblest form is the transfer of knowledge.

The Essence of Charity: A Path to Mutual Survival and Betterment

In a world where physical limitations and circumstantial barriers can hinder individuals from leading active lives or pursuing creative endeavors, the essence of charity emerges as a beacon of hope and solidarity. Charity transcends mere acts of generosity; charity embodies the ethos of joint survival, facilitated by the exchange of experiences, knowledge, and material resources. Understanding this essence becomes paramount in fostering a society where compassion and mutual support thrive.

At its core, charity epitomizes a symbiotic relationship of mutual gain and utility, operating on the principle of reciprocity. It's the embodiment of "you give me - I give you," where each act of giving and receiving strengthens the fabric of society. Leveraging the power of technology, a platform like Local serves as a channel for individuals and organizations around the world to provide help and find support.

Responsible society

Forming a socially responsible society requires collective effort and commitment from individuals, communities, and institutions. Here are some recommendations to promote social responsibility:

Education and Awareness: Implement comprehensive educational programs that promote values such as empathy, compassion, and ethical decision-making. Foster awareness of social issues and encourage critical thinking about their root causes and potential solutions.
Ethical Leadership: Cultivate ethical leadership at all levels of society, from government and business to community organizations and schools. Leaders should lead by example, prioritize the common good over self-interest, and hold themselves accountable for their actions.
Civic Engagement: Encourage active participation in civic life, including voting, volunteering, and community organizing. Empower individuals to advocate for social justice, equality, and environmental sustainability through peaceful and constructive means.
Corporate Social Responsibility: Hold businesses accountable for their social and environmental impact. Encourage companies to adopt ethical business practices, prioritize sustainability, and contribute positively to the communities in which they operate.
Fair and Just Policies: Advocate for policies that promote equality, justice, and opportunity for all members of society. This includes measures to address systemic discrimination, poverty, and environmental degradation, as well as policies that ensure access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunity.
Environmental Stewardship: Foster a culture of environmental stewardship and sustainability. Encourage individuals and communities to reduce their carbon footprint, conserve natural resources, and protect biodiversity for future generations.
Empathy and Inclusion: Promote empathy, understanding, and inclusion across diverse cultures, backgrounds, and perspectives. Encourage dialogue, collaboration, and mutual respect to bridge divides and build stronger, more cohesive communities.
Support for Vulnerable Populations: Provide support and resources for vulnerable populations, including the homeless, refugees, immigrants, and marginalized communities. Ensure access to essential services such as healthcare, housing, education, and social assistance.
Collaboration and Partnerships: Foster collaboration and partnerships between government, businesses, nonprofits, and community organizations to address complex social challenges effectively. By pooling resources, expertise, and networks, stakeholders can amplify their impact and drive meaningful change.
Lifelong Learning and Adaptation: Encourage lifelong learning and adaptation to meet the evolving needs of society. Foster a culture of innovation, experimentation, and continuous improvement to tackle emerging social issues and seize new opportunities for positive change.

By embracing these recommendations and working together to promote social responsibility, we can create a more just, equitable, and sustainable society for present and future generations.

"No one owes anyone anything"

"No one owes anyone anything"

The expression "no one owes anyone anything" is not just a psychological adage; it's a dangerous ideology that fosters a culture of selfishness, irresponsibility, and moral apathy. While on the surface it may seem like a call for personal autonomy, in reality, it serves as a convenient excuse for individuals to shirk their responsibilities and disregard the well-being of others.
    Charlatan psychologists often exploit this expression to manipulate and justify human weaknesses, incompetence, and infantilism. By promoting the idea that individuals have no obligations to others, they absolve themselves and their clients of any accountability for their actions. This allows them to perpetuate a cycle of self-centered behavior and evade the uncomfortable truths of personal growth and societal contribution.
    Consider a scenario where someone fails to fulfill their commitments to a friend or colleague, citing the mantra "no one owes anyone anything." Instead of acknowledging their failure to uphold their promises and obligations, they use this expression to dismiss any sense of guilt or accountability. This not only damages their relationships but also reinforces a toxic mindset that prioritizes personal convenience over integrity and trust.
    Moreover, the harmful consequences of this expression extend beyond individual interactions to broader societal implications. In public life, it serves as a justification for neglecting social responsibilities and perpetuating systemic injustices. When policymakers and leaders adopt this mindset, they prioritize short-term gains over the long-term well-being of communities and future generations.
    For example, imagine a government official justifying budget cuts to essential social services by invoking the notion that "no one owes anyone anything." By absolving themselves of their duty to care for the most vulnerable members of society, they exacerbate inequality, perpetuate suffering, and undermine the social fabric of the community.
    Furthermore, this expression undermines the fundamental principles of empathy, compassion, and reciprocity that form the bedrock of human relationships and societal cohesion. It fosters a culture of indifference where individuals prioritize their own needs and desires at the expense of others, leading to a breakdown in trust, cooperation, and collective well-being.
    In essence, the mantra "no one owes anyone anything" is not just a harmless phrase; it's a corrosive ideology that erodes the moral fabric of society and perpetuates a cycle of irresponsibility and selfishness. Instead of embracing this nihilistic mindset, we must recognize our inherent interconnectedness and shared responsibility for creating a more just, compassionate, and equitable world for all.

Survival

Survival in our lives goes beyond mere physical existence. It includes maintaining physical, psychological, social and environmental well-being, as well as promoting sustainable development and intergenerational resilience. This requires taking responsibility for our actions, addressing the consequences of past irresponsibility, and working towards a more sustainable and equitable future.

Basic human needs for survival

Basic human needs for survival are essential requirements that must be fulfilled to ensure individual health, well-being, and survival. These needs encompass various aspects of physical, psychological, and social well-being.

Promoting social justice involves reducing social inequality

Reducing social inequality is a complex and multifaceted challenge that requires concerted efforts across various domains. Here are some key steps that can be taken to address this issue:

Invest in Education: Education is one of the most powerful tools for breaking the cycle of poverty and inequality. Ensuring access to quality education for all, regardless of socioeconomic background, can empower individuals to pursue better opportunities and contribute to economic growth.
Promote Economic Opportunities: Creating a more inclusive economy involves policies that support job creation, fair wages, and access to capital for marginalized communities. This can include initiatives such as vocational training programs, small business support, and investment in infrastructure projects that benefit underserved areas.
Implement Progressive Taxation: Tax policies can play a significant role in redistributing wealth and reducing inequality. Implementing progressive tax systems that place a higher burden on the wealthy can help fund social programs and provide support for those in need.
Ensure Access to Healthcare: Access to affordable healthcare is essential for promoting social equality and improving overall well-being. Policies that expand access to healthcare services, including preventive care and mental health support, can help address disparities in health outcomes.
Support Social Safety Nets: Strong social safety nets, such as unemployment benefits, housing assistance, and food assistance programs, can provide a crucial lifeline for individuals and families facing economic hardship. Strengthening and expanding these programs can help reduce inequality and promote social mobility.
Combat Discrimination: Discrimination based on race, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or other factors perpetuates social inequality. Implementing and enforcing anti-discrimination laws, promoting diversity and inclusion in workplaces and educational institutions, and raising awareness about implicit bias can help combat systemic discrimination.
nvest in Affordable Housing: Access to safe and affordable housing is a fundamental human right that can significantly impact social and economic opportunities. Policies that promote affordable housing development, provide rental assistance, and prevent housing discrimination can help address housing inequality
Encourage Community Empowerment: Empowering communities to advocate for their own needs and priorities can be instrumental in reducing social inequality. Supporting grassroots organizations, community development initiatives, and participatory decision-making processes can help ensure that marginalized voices are heard and valued.
Foster Financial Literacy: Equipping individuals with the knowledge and skills to manage their finances effectively can help break the cycle of poverty and promote economic stability. Financial literacy programs that provide education on budgeting, saving, and investing can empower individuals to make informed financial decisions and build wealth over time.
Promote Social Cohesion: Building strong social connections and fostering a sense of community can help mitigate the effects of social inequality and promote social cohesion. Encouraging social integration, fostering cross-cultural understanding, and investing in community-building initiatives can help bridge divides and create a more inclusive society.

By implementing these and other targeted strategies, societies can work towards reducing social inequality and creating a more equitable and just world for all.

Survival encompasses the ability to maintain a satisfactory quality of life
and preserve the well-being of individuals, communities, and ecosystems
despite the consequences of our actions or inactions.

Physical Survival

It refers to the ability to maintain life and health in the face of immediate threats such as war, terrorism, crime, environmental degradation, pollution, or health risks resulting from ignorance and irresponsible behavior.

Psychological and Emotional Survival

Irresponsibility towards ourselves and our environment can have profound psychological and emotional impacts, leading to stress, anxiety, depression, and a diminished sense of well-being.

Social Survival

Our actions can impact the social fabric of communities and societies, leading to social fragmentation, inequality, and injustice. Social survival entails fostering strong social connections, mutual support networks, and equitable relationships to ensure the cohesion and resilience of communities.

Environmental Survival

Irresponsible behavior towards the environment, such as overexploitation of natural resources, pollution, and habitat destruction, threatens the health and sustainability of ecosystems. Environmental survival involves mitigating the negative impacts of human activities, restoring ecological balance, and adopting sustainable practices to protect biodiversity and the planet's life-support systems.

Intergenerational Survival

Our actions today have implications for future generations, affecting their opportunities, well-being, and quality of life. Inter-generational survival entails responsible stewardship of resources, ensuring that we leave a habitable and thriving world for future generations.

Intergenerational Center for Arts and Wellness

Responsibility

"Responsibility is the price of freedom" - Elbert Hubbard

HUMANITY UNION

GLOBAL SOLIDARITY

The willingness to accept responsibility for one's own life is the source from which self-respect springs
Joan Didion

The Gradual Evolution of Responsibility: From Self to Society

Illustration by Helena Pallarés

Responsibility is not just a virtue but a cornerstone of personal growth and societal progress. It begins with the individual, expands to encompass family and community, and ultimately extends to the collective fate of humanity and the environment. Understanding and embracing responsibility at each stage of this progression is crucial for personal fulfillment and the well-being of society as a whole.
At its core, responsibility starts with oneself. It entails recognizing one's agency and accountability for one's actions, choices, and their consequences. Self-responsibility is the foundation upon which all other forms of responsibility are built. Without a strong sense of self-responsibility, personal growth and development become stunted, hindering the individual's ability to navigate life's challenges effectively.
The next stage of personal growth involves assuming responsibility for those closest to us – our partners, families, and children. This expanded circle of responsibility necessitates prioritizing the needs and well-being of loved ones, making sacrifices when necessary, and nurturing healthy relationships. As individuals mature, they realize that their actions not only affect themselves but also have ripple effects on their immediate social circles.

Beyond the confines of family, responsibility extends to the broader society and community. This entails active participation in civic duties, contributing positively to the community, and upholding ethical principles in interactions with others. Society functions smoothly when its members recognize their role in maintaining its fabric, fostering cooperation, and addressing collective challenges.

Illustration by Helena Pallarés

However, the highest stage of responsibility transcends individual and societal boundaries – it encompasses the fate of all humanity and the environment. In an interconnected world facing pressing global issues such as climate change, poverty, and injustice, individuals must recognize their role in shaping the collective destiny of humanity and safeguarding the planet for future generations.
Despite the inherent importance of responsibility, individuals may sometimes falter in demonstrating it, especially when facing existential crises or disillusionment with life. Factors such as mental health struggles, societal pressures, and feelings of insignificance can erode one's sense of responsibility, leading to apathy or detachment from personal and social obligations.
To address this, fostering a culture of responsibility requires a multifaceted approach. Education plays a vital role in instilling values of accountability and empathy from an early age. Encouraging open dialogue about mental health and providing accessible support services can help individuals navigate personal challenges more effectively. Additionally, cultivating a sense of purpose and belonging within communities can reignite individuals' sense of responsibility and motivate them to contribute positively to society.
Furthermore, systemic changes are needed to create environments that incentivize and reward responsible behavior. Policies that promote sustainability, social justice, and ethical governance can align individual interests with collective well-being, fostering a sense of shared responsibility for the common good.

Ensuring a fair and sustainable future

To ensure a fair and sustainable future, prioritizing education and awareness is paramount. By equipping individuals with knowledge about the interconnectedness of social, environmental, and economic issues, we lay the groundwork for informed decision-making and collective action. Education should be integrated into school curricula and promoted through public campaigns and media outreach.
Empowering communities follows closely behind education. When communities are informed and engaged, they become powerful agents of change. Through participatory processes, communities can unite, coordinate, and influence policymakers and large corporations. By advocating for their needs and priorities, communities can shape policies and business practices that prioritize the well-being of people and the planet. Next, strengthening international cooperation is crucial. Global challenges such as climate change and poverty transcend borders, requiring coordinated action on a global scale. Multilateral agreements, partnerships, and initiatives facilitate collaboration among nations to address these complex issues effectively. By working together, countries can share knowledge, resources, and best practices to achieve common goals. Following international cooperation, actions such as promoting ethical leadership, implementing sustainable policies, fostering corporate responsibility, supporting innovation, advocating for policy reform, and
promoting social justice are essential components of building a fair and sustainable future. Each of these actions plays a crucial role in addressing the root causes of inequality, environmental degradation, and social injustice.

Human

“A person is a person through other persons. None of us comes into the world fully formed. We would not know how to think, or walk, or speak, or behave as human beings unless we learned it from other human beings. We need other human beings in order to be human. I am because other people are. A person is entitled to a stable community life, and the first of these communities is the family.”
Desmond Tutu

I am a person born into this world

I am a product of a man and a woman, residing on planet Earth. My journey in life commenced within the boundaries of a nation-state, where I received education, accumulated life experiences, and inherited the rich tapestry of culture and traditions that envelop my surroundings. This environment has shaped my lifestyle, imbuing me with its values and norms.
Depending on where I and my social status, the quality of life can vary significantly. Some individuals wield influence through their actions and initiatives, while others passively accept the prevailing societal norms. Together, these dynamics construct the fabric of our societies.

I hold a fundamental belief that the world I inhabit should be sustainable, just, and secure This belief is not merely a thought but a proactive step towards realising this vision. Regardless of my identity or endeavours, I acknowledge that I have an impact on both my own life and the world around me. In this interconnected existence, each of us plays a role in shaping our shared reality.

GoodBook is the world's book that each of us writes. Our education and ignorance, our activity and passivity, our merits and demerits, our goodness and evil - all these things write our lives, and everything that is best and progressive writes the GoodBook

Different qualities and values are inherent in a person. It is important to determine your place in life and identify in yourself those qualities that do not contribute to a harmonious relationship with the civilized world.

Universal human values

Universal human values are principles and beliefs that are commonly considered essential across various cultures and societies. While the specific values may vary in emphasis and interpretation, some of the most widely recognised universal human values include:

Compassion: Showing empathy, kindness, and concern for others' well-being.
Justice: Upholding fairness, equality, and impartiality in treatment and decision-making.
Freedom: Valuing individual liberty, autonomy, and the right to self-determination.
Honesty: Being truthful, transparent, and trustworthy in interactions and communication.
Integrity: Acting with moral and ethical principles, consistency, and sincerity.
Respect: Recognising the inherent worth and dignity of all individuals regardless of differences.
Responsibility: Accepting accountability for one's actions and their consequences.
Tolerance: Embracing diversity, accepting differences, and showing patience and understanding towards others.
Peace: Striving for harmony, tranquility, and non-violence in interpersonal and international relations.
Solidarity: Supporting and standing with others in times of need, fostering community and cooperation.
Dignity: Upholding the value and worth of every human being, regardless of circumstance or status.
Empathy: Understanding and sharing the feelings and perspectives of others, fostering emotional connection and support.
Gratitude: Recognising and appreciating the good in one's life and expressing thankfulness towards others.
Humility: Being modest, respectful of others' achievements, and open to learning and growth.
Love: Demonstrating care, affection, and compassion towards oneself and others.

These values serve as guiding principles for ethical behaviour, interpersonal relationships, and societal progress, reflecting humanity's shared aspirations for a better world.

Universal human vices

Basic universal human vices encompass a range of negative behaviours and tendencies that are prevalent across cultures and societies. Here are some examples:

Greed: Excessive desire for wealth, power, or material possessions, often at the expense of others' well-being.
Envy: Resentment or discontent towards others' success, possessions, or qualities.
Pride: Excessive belief in one's abilities or superiority, often leading to arrogance and disregard for others.
Lust: Intense or unrestrained sexual desire, often leading to exploitative or harmful behaviour.
Gluttony: Excessive indulgence in food or drink, often leading to wastefulness or negative health consequences.
Wrath: Intense anger or rage, often leading to destructive behaviour or harm towards others.
Sloth: Laziness or apathy towards responsibilities or tasks, resulting in neglect or lack of effort.
Deceit: Dishonesty or manipulation for personal gain, often at the expense of others' trust or well-being.
Vanity: Excessive concern with one's appearance, image, or reputation, often leading to shallow or superficial behaviour.
Selfishness: Lack of consideration or empathy for others' needs or feelings, prioritising one's own interests above all else

These vices, though universal, can manifest in different ways depending on individual circumstances and cultural contexts. Recognising and addressing these negative tendencies is essential for personal growth and the promotion of a more compassionate and ethical society.

"No one owes anyone anything"

Happiness as the ultimate goal

In the journey of life, happiness is often perceived as the ultimate goal. Yet, for many, true happiness transcends mere pleasure and indulgence; it lies in the fulfillment found through education, responsibility, and noble pursuits. Let's explore how a person's understanding of happiness evolves with their level of education and sense of responsibility, leading them to recognize the noble purpose in life.
Education serves as a catalyst for personal growth and enlightenment. As a person delves deeper into learning, they expand their horizons, gain new perspectives, and develop critical thinking skills. With education comes the realization that true happiness is not merely the pursuit of fleeting pleasures, but rather the cultivation of knowledge, wisdom, and self-awareness. Educated individuals understand that happiness stems from intellectual curiosity, personal development, and meaningful connections with others.
Responsibility also plays a crucial role in shaping one's understanding of happiness. As individuals mature, they come to recognize that happiness is not a solitary pursuit but is intertwined with their sense of duty and contribution to the world. Responsible actions, such as fulfilling commitments, caring for loved ones, and making positive contributions to society, bring a profound sense of fulfillment and purpose. Happiness, for them, is found in the meaningful impact they make on the lives of others and the world around them.
    Moreover, as a person delves deeper into the realms of education and responsibility, they begin to understand the noble purpose in life. They realize that true fulfillment lies in serving others, making a positive difference, and leaving a lasting legacy of kindness and compassion. This noble purpose transcends personal desires and encompasses the greater good of humanity. Whether through acts of kindness, philanthropy, or advocacy for social justice, they strive to leave the world a better place than they found it.
    The difference between mere happiness and the noble purpose in life lies in the depth of one's understanding and the breadth of their impact. While happiness may be transient and self-centered, the noble purpose is enduring and altruistic. It is the driving force that compels individuals to rise above their own needs and desires and dedicate themselves to something greater than themselves.
    In conclusion, a person's understanding of happiness evolves with their level of education and sense of responsibility. Through education, they gain insights into the true sources of happiness beyond material wealth and superficial pleasures. With responsibility, they recognize the importance of contributing to the well-being of others and the world. Ultimately, they come to understand the noble purpose in life, finding fulfillment in serving others and leaving a positive legacy for future generations.

The main social strata or modern styles of human life

The main social strata or modern styles of human life, considering values, education, culture, and location, can be broadly categorized as follows:
Urban Professionals/Career-Oriented Individuals: This stratum comprises individuals living in urban centers, often with higher education and professional careers. They value ambition, success, and personal achievement. Their lifestyle is fast-paced, focused on career advancement, and typically involves high levels of education, specialized skills, and engagement with modern technology. Cultural activities, networking events, and access to amenities are important aspects of their lifestyle.
Suburban Families: Suburban families typically prioritize stability, family values, and a comfortable lifestyle. They often reside in residential neighborhoods outside of urban centers, where access to good schools, parks, and community services is important. Family life, children's education, and community involvement are central to their values. Many in this group have moderate to high levels of education and may work in professions that offer a work-life balance.
Rural Communities: Rural communities encompass individuals living in less densely populated areas, often engaged in agriculture, forestry, or small businesses. Values here may include a strong connection to nature, self-sufficiency, and traditional ways of life. Education levels can vary, and cultural practices may be rooted in local customs and beliefs. Access to services and opportunities can be limited compared to urban or suburban areas.
Digital Nomads/Flexible Workers: With the rise of remote work and digital technology, a growing number of individuals embrace a lifestyle of flexibility and mobility. Digital nomads work remotely from various locations, often traveling extensively. They value freedom, independence, and the ability to work from anywhere. Education levels can vary, but proficiency in technology and adaptability are common traits.
Bohemian/Creative Communities: This group includes artists, musicians, writers, and creatives who prioritize self-expression, creativity, and alternative lifestyles. They may live in urban neighborhoods known for their artistic scenes and cultural diversity. Values often revolve around artistic pursuits, open-mindedness, and unconventional lifestyles.
Cultural/Heritage Enthusiasts: Individuals passionate about preserving and celebrating cultural heritage, history, and traditions fall into this category. They may engage in cultural events, festivals, and activities that promote their heritage. Education levels vary, but a deep appreciation for cultural values and identity is a common thread.
Global Citizens/Humanitarians: Some individuals prioritize global issues, human rights, and international cooperation. They may work in NGOs, international organizations, or pursue careers that promote social justice and sustainability. Education tends to focus on global affairs, intercultural communication, and diplomacy.
Luxury/High-Society: A segment of society emphasizes luxury, wealth, and status symbols. They may reside in exclusive neighborhoods, attend high-profile events, and engage in conspicuous consumption. Education levels vary, but connections and social standing are paramount in this lifestyle.
These social strata or styles of human life are influenced by values, education, culture, and location, reflecting the diverse ways individuals navigate modern society and express their identities and aspirations. Each group contributes uniquely to the fabric of contemporary life, shaping communities and perspectives in distinctive ways.

Local

Create an atmosphere of humanity and mutual assistance around yourself using the Charity service

Our future depends on it

How to Get Help:
Posting a request for assistance on Local opens doors to a global network of compassion. Whether it's aid for physical challenges or opportunities for creative expression, individuals can articulate their needs, fostering connections with those willing to lend a helping hand. This inclusivity allows for tailored support, irrespective of geographical boundaries.

How to Provide Help:
Similarly, offering assistance on Local transcends borders and barriers. Individuals and organizations can share their expertise, resources, or time, contributing to causes that resonate with them. By leveraging collective strengths, communities can address diverse needs, fostering a culture of collaboration and empowerment.
Requests and proposals on Local are not confined to individuals alone; foundations, corporations, and other entities are encouraged to participate, amplifying the impact of charitable endeavors. This democratization of aid ensures that no one is left behind, embodying the spirit of global citizenship.

Charity underscores a fundamental responsibility — to oneself, to others, and to future generations. It's a recognition that our collective well-being is intertwined, and only through concerted effort can we navigate the complexities of existence. While charity alleviates immediate needs, its true power lies in its capacity to nurture empathy and social cohesion.
Yet, charity alone is not a panacea. It's a reflection of broader societal values, highlighting the importance of education and upbringing steeped in philanthropy and rationality. By instilling these values in future generations, we cultivate a culture where charity becomes not just an act but a way of life—a beacon of hope illuminating the path to a brighter, more equitable world.

Go to Local

1. Register on the website

2. Select a country to place your request or offer

3. View the results of requests and proposals

4. Be actively involved in charity

Only together we will build a new order in a world without wars and territorial disputes. Conscious and reasonable use of the achievements of science and technology for the formation of a new, balanced, socially responsible world civilization.

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CHARITY

What is charity?

Survival

Basic human needs for survival

Survival encompasses the ability to maintain a satisfactory quality of life
and preserve the well-being of individuals, communities, and ecosystems
despite the consequences of our actions or inactions.

Responsibility

"Responsibility is the price of freedom" - Elbert Hubbard