Dr. Agnes Thomas

The vulnerabilities of human life in a market-driven culture have been on my mind lately. It reminds me of one of my theses, where I discussed how people with disabilities are often rejected because they don’t fit the economic expectations of a capitalist marketplace. It simply reflects the socio-economic setup that sees human life as a commodity, evaluated for its monetary worth. It’s disheartening and scary how this trend is growing all over the world, affecting the care and treatment of vulnerable individuals and impacting our homes and communities.
The danger lies in accepting this market-driven perspective as the norm, blindly following a system that prioritizes economic productivity over compassion and humanity. The effects of this differing value system continue to influence our thoughts and actions, exacting a high price on families and societies. The pressing question is, what can we do to counteract this trend?
Let’s examine how this plays out in our daily lives. One of the most common phrases parents use when children seek their attention is, “I’m busy; don’t bother me now.” As we age, we use that exact phrase when our aging parents require our time and care. The cycle continues when anyone else in our lives needs our attention or care beyond what we consider necessary. We are not being dishonest when we say we are busy, as our jobs are relentless and demanding, and our financial and social well-being often depends on our unwavering commitment to them.
The second most prevalent pattern resulting from the same setup is our constant pursuit of material possessions and experiences. We constantly plan for the next upgrade, the next vacation, the next must-have accessory. To maintain this lifestyle, careful planning and decision-making are crucial. Anything or anyone that obstructs this pursuit must be pushed away. Having children and aging parents become distractions and burdens, especially if they require care and attention. This creates a paradox for humans. If people cannot care for themselves, they should be removed from the equation even if they will experience the same fate at some point in their lives.
This reflection is not meant to emphasize the negativity of the situation but to highlight the immeasurable cost of the subtle realities we have come to accept as essential for our existence.
So, what do we do about it? How do we resist these systems and practices that directly or indirectly shape our conscience and value system in ways that lead to a culture of death and destruction? What guidance can we find in the Gospel, and where do we start?
The Gospel of John 15:12-13 clearly articulates the Christian response: “My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friend.” Additionally, Mark 12:13 offers valuable insights into how we should respond to these challenges. The fundamental question, however, is where and how we apply these teachings in our daily lives, especially when the pressure to prepare for the marketplace can make it challenging to care for the needs of family members.
There are no simple answers to the complex interplay of needs versus wants, power versus vulnerability, measurable labour versus the immeasurable value of human life, and the natural cycle of life versus a manufactured one designed for labour and sale. It is essential to recognize that addressing these issues requires a multi-faceted approach.
To initiate change, we can start within our own homes. Begin with small steps toward practical compassion. Foster a sense of community within your household where loving care and small, sacrificial acts of kindness become second nature. Make choices to be a friendly neighbour, a dependable sibling, or a mentor to a young person in need. Extend these principles to the workplace and social spaces, seeking out those who may be excluded and working to bring reconciliation and justice to the oppressed.
Resisting the pervasive values of individualism, consumerism, and capitalism requires intentionality. We must recognize the importance of our humanity and protect it. Embrace the need to love and be loved, placing it above all else, and extend this love without shame or fear. Our ability to change these societal norms begins within our homes and radiates outward into the world. Through these small yet profound acts of compassion and love, we can challenge the prevailing market-driven culture and create a more compassionate and just society.