3.2 SEP focuses on human development starting with the right mindset
SEP is a way of life based on its own particular view of the world i.e. one’s thinking, speech and actions should be moderate, based on reason, with a thorough understanding of causes and effects, while preparing for changes by creating self-immunity through practicing morality and utilizing knowledge prudently. For one to behave this way, the SEP approach focuses on shaping the mindset of individuals, which becomes the basis for their way of thinking and their actions.
According to the United Nations Development Program (UNDP), human development means expanding people’s choices to live full and creative lives with freedom and dignity. The SEP approach goes beyond much development thinking by linking the search for human-centered, sustainable development with the cultivation of human values. Following the SEP approach, to increase one’s capacity, to enhance one’s potential or to provide choices in life and opportunities to choose, one must hold the right view of the world, which in turn forms right thinking and right behavior.
The SEP approach views the world as in flux, and all things — living and non-living — are interconnected. Thus, each action must be based on careful consideration of its impact on the limited material resources, the interconnected lives of people in society and the environment as well as historical values in each society.The right view as explained above is of course based on Buddhist teachings, especially the teaching on the right eightfold path. Right thinking, right speech, right action, and right livelihood, all of which follow from the right view, focus on basic moral values such as non-harmfulness, non- violence, honesty, integrity, prudence-sharing, empathy, compassion, fairness, and generosity. Moreover, right endeavor, right mindfulness, and right concentration are also necessary factors to achieve a balanced way of life as expounded in the SEP approach to development.
We can take responsible consumption as an example of applying the SEP approach to development. As His Majesty the King mentioned in his discussion of moderation one should consume moderately, that is just enough or sufficiently for need, considering limited resources and the impact of one’s consumption upon others in society based on the principles of non-harmful and sharing. Waste arising from consumption must be treated properly due to one’s consideration for the environment in both the short and long term. The pattern or choices of consumption should contribute to preserving the values or cultural identity of one’s society.
Looking at the photo of His Majesty the King’s used toothpaste tube, can we not see moderation with reason and consideration of others and limited resources in action?