MUSA-ODODO ABDULRAHAMAN
The Paradox of Human Existence
To be human is to embody both immense wisdom and profound folly. We are creatures of remarkable intellect, capable of understanding the laws of nature, unraveling the mysteries of the universe, and shaping the world through creativity and innovation. Yet, paradoxically, we engage in actions that undermine our existence – creating instruments of destruction, fostering hatred, and perpetuating divisions among ourselves.
This paradox invites us to reflect on the core truth of our humanity. Why, despite our vast potential, do we struggle to create a world of peace and harmony?
- The Universal Truth: We Are Love and Oneness
Human beings are created from love, by love, and for love. This eternal truth underscores our shared essence and interconnectedness. We emerge from a singular source – the Divine – and are bound by a fundamental oneness. Despite this, history shows that humans have repeatedly failed to live in accordance with this truth.
Historical Context:
Ancient civilizations, such as the Roman and Greek Empires, rose to prominence through technological advancements and cultural achievements but ultimately fell due to internal conflict, corruption, and warfare.
The Transatlantic Slave Trade and colonization distorted human relationships, reducing fellow beings to commodities and inflicting immeasurable suffering.
Modern conflicts, including two World Wars, the Cold War, and ongoing territorial disputes, highlight humanity’s persistent inability to prioritize unity over division.
These examples reveal humanity’s ignorance of its inherent oneness. Instead of embracing love and cooperation, we have fostered animosity and division.
- The Ignorance of Self: The Root of Our Challenges
Our greatest challenge as a species is the unrecognized ignorance of our true nature. This ignorance manifests as fear, ego, and the pursuit of dominance over others. It blinds us to our interconnectedness and fuels destructive behaviors.
Modern Manifestations:
Technological Warfare: The creation of nuclear weapons and AI represents humanity’s tendency to develop tools that can harm rather than heal.
Economic Exploitation: Global economic systems prioritize profit over human well-being, perpetuating inequality and environmental degradation.
Social Divisions: Racism, xenophobia, and religious intolerance continue to divide us despite our shared humanity.
Without self-awareness, humanity remains trapped in cycles of conflict and destruction.
- The Danger of AI: A New Threat to Human Sovereignty
Artificial Intelligence represents a pivotal moment in human history. Unlike previous technological advancements, AI has the ability to think and make decisions independently of human control. This makes it uniquely dangerous, as it poses the risk of operating beyond human moral and ethical frameworks.
The Urgency of Collective Responsibility:
Just as nuclear weapons forced humanity to confront its capacity for self-destruction, AI compels us to consider the ethical implications of our creations.
Without sincere cooperation among AI creators and regulators, we risk creating an uncontrollable force that could undermine human civilization.
The lesson here is clear: unchecked technological progress without moral guidance can lead to catastrophic consequences.
- Consciously Creating a New World: The Call to Action
The time has come for humanity to reclaim its inherent power and consciously create a world rooted in love, peace, and prosperity. This requires a fundamental shift in how we perceive ourselves and our purpose on Earth.
Steps Toward Transformation:
- Awakening to Self-Awareness: We must recognize our true nature as beings of love and oneness. This realization will guide our actions and relationships.
- Embracing Universal Principles: Nations and societies must adopt values that prioritize cooperation, compassion, and collective well-being over competition and dominance.
- Harnessing Technology for Good: AI and other innovations should be directed toward solving global challenges rather than exacerbating them.
- Fostering Global Unity: International collaboration must replace conflict-driven diplomacy. Dialogue and understanding are essential to addressing shared challenges such as climate change and poverty.
The Power of Choice: A New Path Forward
History has shown that civilizations rise and fall based on the choices they make. The future of humanity is not predetermined – it is shaped by our conscious actions. We have the power to create a world where peace, love, and prosperity prevail, but this requires collective will and effort.
Examples of Hope:
Movements for social justice, environmental conservation, and global peace illustrate humanity’s capacity for positive change.
Nations that prioritize education, equality, and innovation show that progress is possible without resorting to conflict.
Conclusion: The Time Is Now
To be human is to hold the responsibility of being custodians of the Earth. We possess the inherent power to shape our destiny and create a world of harmony and abundance. This is not just a possibility – it is a necessity for our survival and flourishing.
We must rise above ignorance, embrace our divine truth, and consciously craft a future grounded in love and unity. The time to act is now. Let us awaken to our true potential and become the architects of a new, ordered, peaceful world where all of humanity can thrive.
Abdulrahaman is the Founder, Initiative for Discovery of Nigeria Heritage and Endowment (IDNHE).
Chairman, National Policy Dialogue.
www.nationalpolicydialogue.org