Contrary to popular stereotypes, the Hindu tradition is neither
life-denying nor otherworldly. It does not uphold the attainment and
enjoyment of material things as life’s highest end, but has acknowledged
their significance in the scheme of human existence. Wealth
(artha) and pleasure (kama) rank among the four legitimate goals of
life. While affirming these, Hinduism also reminds us of their transience
and inability to fully satisfy us. Wealth and pleasure must be
sought by being responsive to the demands of the third goal, referred
to as dharma. Dharma derives its meaning from the fact that every
human being is inseparably connected with and dependent on other
human beings as well as nonhuman realities. The goal of dharma
requires that we be attentive to the well-being of the whole, even as we
are nourished and sustained by it. Dharma is violated when we obsessively
and narrowly pursue private desires that destroy the harmony of
the universe community on which our lives depend. Through dharma,
we are mindful that the selfish and uncontrolled pursuit of wealth and
pleasure lead to suffering and chaos. Dharma reminds us to incorporate
the good of all in the intent and execution of our actions. Noninjury
(ahimsa) is regarded as the highest expression of dharma.