4 Unlocking Human Potential: The Vital Role of Freedom and Innovation in Enhancing Living Standards and Quality of Life
Before the widespread discussion of democratic principles, monarchies predominantly ruled, an era when the ideas of democracy were either completely absent or only just beginning to form. Imagine the greatness of kings and their courts, where they symbolised entire nations. Every step they took toward their thrones was met with deep respect, shown by kissing their hands, skirts and robes. Power was passed down through families, often leading to internal conflicts and complex political struggles.
History is full of stories of wars fought by armies under the command of powerful families. The loss of countless young men in these battles reminds us of the harsh truth behind the saying, “If boxing is a sport, then war is the Olympics.” Yet, not all monarchs claimed their thrones through violence. Some societies, firmly rooted in monarchy, sought stability by inviting foreign rulers. For example, the British welcomed a Dutch king, and the Hungarians a German king, showing how nations sometimes turned to outsiders for renewal and leadership.
This era of monarchy provides a compelling chapter in our historical records, where the dynamics of power, warfare, and diplomatic strategies profoundly influenced the destinies of nations and left a lasting imprint on the collective consciousness of humanity.
From a primitive perspective, there is a deeply held belief that the state is a sacred entity. However, upon closer examination, it becomes clear that the sacredness is attributed not to the state itself but to the individual. This perspective challenges the traditional view of the state as an all-powerful entity, urging a reconsideration of the relationship between citizens and their governments.
Contrary to the traditional reverence for the state, where questioning or challenging its authority is often seen as fraught with danger, a pre-civilized perspective holds that true holiness resides in humanity itself. This shift in understanding encourages a critical examination of power dynamics and challenges the notion that a select few should hold monopolistic control over power for their personal benefit.
In today’s global context, we find numerous examples of anti-democratic practices carried out by those in power. Notable among these are the one-party rule in China and authoritarian regimes that present themselves as democracies, such as Putin’s Russia. It is particularly alarming to observe how countries rich in natural resources can suppress dissent and maintain oppressive regimes.
Additionally, there is a concerning trend where societal narratives are manipulated, enabling those in power to present ordinary items as luxury goods, exploiting populations that have previously suffered from poverty and deprivation. The control over media and propaganda further perpetuates this deception, contributing to a quality of life that is below what is globally acceptable.
A pre-civilised perspective challenges us to rethink power, reminding us that people’s worth should be valued over blind loyalty to the state. Power can be used for both good and harm, and societies must remain cautious to protect democracy from manipulation and authoritarian rule.
In today’s world, ensuring fair living standards begins with understanding the role of the state. Society is made up of people from different backgrounds, ages, beliefs, and cultures, further shaped by migration and globalisation. The state provides a platform where these differences come together, allowing us to create shared rules, make collective decisions, and establish rights and protections that guide how we live together.
At its core, the state is not just a system of authority; it is a space where people unite to define the principles of communal life. It ensures that no single group dominates others, giving everyone a voice and a stake in decision-making. It is not merely a hierarchy of power but a structure built on shared values, cooperation, and mutual respect.
Ideally, the state should serve as a safeguard against groups or political factions seeking to take control for their own interests. It should prevent the rise of alternative power structures that distort governance and instead ensure that decisions reflect the collective will of society. In its best form, the state is a tool for fairness and justice, where representation and constitutional rights are not just ideals but lived realities that support a thriving and stable society.
Ultimately, the state is a shared project, something we shape together to ensure a fair and prosperous life for all. It is a framework that allows different voices to come together, creating a balance between individual rights and collective well-being. The ability to maintain and improve this structure is key to sustaining democracy and ensuring that progress benefits everyone, not just a privileged few.
Throughout history, human civilisation has depended on rules to organise life, from small family units to entire nations. Western societies have been particularly effective at managing diversity through systems that grant representation and protect individual rights. The United States, with its 50 states and a democratic tradition spanning centuries, exemplifies this approach. However, history also teaches us that democracy must not be used as a tool for exploitation, as seen in colonial practices. Instead of repeating past mistakes, societies must learn from them and work toward a system that prioritises fairness, cooperation, and true inclusion.
Democracy has faced challenges along the way, but these have been recognised and addressed over time. A key milestone in this journey was the election of Barack Obama, the first African American president of the United States. His election marked a major shift, breaking long-standing barriers and demonstrating the nation’s commitment to inclusivity.
The progress toward greater diversity in leadership is evident worldwide. Today, the former Prime Minister of the UK, of Indian descent, and the Prime Minister of Scotland, of Pakistani heritage, highlight how leadership roles are becoming more reflective of diverse societies. These examples are especially significant given democracy’s deep historical roots, with foundational moments like the Magna Carta shaping its evolution.
Democracy is an ongoing process of growth, learning from past mistakes, and striving for a future that is fairer and more inclusive. While challenges remain, each step forward reinforces the principle that governance should represent and serve all people.
The foundation of a thriving society lies in maintaining internal peace. When we look back at the past five centuries, we see that the nations leading in discovery, innovation, and development all share a key characteristic, strong social harmony. This harmony is not just about having efficient governments or well-functioning institutions; it is rooted in a deep respect for individuals and their rights. Societies that prioritise peace and mutual respect tend to create environments where people can flourish, express themselves freely, and contribute to the common good.
A clear example of this is England, where the relationship between the state and its citizens is built on a foundation of trust. One of the most striking reflections of this trust is the fact that police officers do not routinely carry firearms. This is not just a matter of policy; it is a cultural statement that emphasises the importance of resolving conflicts without force. By choosing not to arm officers in daily patrols, the state signals a commitment to de-escalation, reducing fear, and ensuring that citizens do not feel constantly threatened by authority figures. Unlike in many other countries where law enforcement relies heavily on intimidation and strict identity checks, England’s approach fosters a sense of security and mutual understanding between the public and those entrusted with maintaining order.
This focus on social harmony and individual dignity extends beyond law enforcement; it shapes the very fabric of these societies. When people feel safe, valued, and respected, they are more likely to engage positively with their communities and participate in democratic processes. The long-term impact of this approach goes far beyond policies or laws; it forms the core of a philosophy that sees peace not just as the absence of conflict, but as an essential condition for progress, well-being, and a high quality of life.
By prioritising internal peace and social cohesion, societies create the foundation for sustainable growth, innovation, and overall prosperity. History shows that nations that invest in these values are the ones that build lasting success, not just in economic terms, but in the strength of their communities and the happiness of their people.
Delving into the historical trajectory encapsulated in economic tables invites us to consider a narrative where per capita income serves as a barometer for economic development and the evolution of living standards. Historically, these living standards, indicative of our collective prosperity, remained relatively unchanged for centuries, tracing a stagnant trajectory. However, this historical pattern was notably disrupted by transformative actions taken by countries like England, followed by pioneers such as the United States and the Netherlands.
In this detailed exploration, we encounter China, a modern economic powerhouse that has achieved extraordinary economic growth over the past two decades. Despite its rapid progress, China is at the beginning of a long developmental journey. The critical question that arises is whether China can replicate the growth trajectory of more developed nations, which would necessitate a substantial increase in its standard of living.
I strongly believe that China’s long-term success depends on embracing the kind of social harmony that has proven essential for progress in other leading nations. This means integrating democratic values, upholding the rule of law, protecting human rights, and ensuring that individual freedoms are at the heart of societal development. A truly prosperous and stable society is not just defined by economic growth or technological advancements but by how well it fosters fairness, equality, and a sense of shared purpose among its people.
If China does not fully commit to these principles, it risks becoming a destabilising force in the global order rather than a leader that inspires respect and cooperation. While rapid economic growth has lifted many into the middle class, a large portion of the population still struggles with poverty and limited opportunities. A country’s strength is not measured solely by its wealth but by how evenly that wealth is distributed and whether all citizens, regardless of their background, have the opportunity to improve their lives.
The challenge for China is not just economic but deeply social and political. If it fails to address the inequalities within its borders and does not align itself with universally recognised values such as justice, freedom, and human dignity, its progress will remain unbalanced. A nation cannot sustain long-term success if large segments of its people feel left behind or restricted in their ability to shape their future.
To truly thrive and be seen as a responsible global power, China must bridge this divide and move forward with a commitment to values that resonate across cultures and societies. The ability to balance economic growth with genuine social harmony, political fairness, and respect for human rights will determine whether China’s rise is a lasting success or an unstable ascent that ultimately limits its full potential.
The story of human civilisation is one of struggle, progress, and the pursuit of fundamental values such as democracy, human rights, the rule of law, and free speech. Yet, newer generations often overlook this long and complex journey, taking for granted the freedoms and rights that were hard-won through centuries of effort and sacrifice. To ensure a future built on peace and cooperation, we must continually highlight and reinforce these core principles that form the foundation of a just and civilized society.
However, modern discourse often shifts the focus toward historical conflicts between nations, fostering division rather than unity. Nationalism and political agendas frequently emphasize what separates us rather than what binds us together. This deliberate focus on past struggles, rather than shared progress, raises an important question: Are we unintentionally weakening the very principles that should unite us?
One of the greatest challenges we face is society’s growing tendency to forget its own history. The sacrifices made by those who fought for democracy, human rights, and free speech risk being buried beneath waves of misinformation, political rhetoric, and short-term interests. Their stories need to be retold, their struggles remembered, and their victories celebrated, not as distant history but as vital lessons that still shape our lives today. Understanding how our society was built helps us appreciate the importance of protecting these values against those who seek to erode them.
No matter our differences, whether in race, religion, gender, or beliefs, we share a common right to express ourselves freely and to advocate for the principles that sustain our civilisation. A world that forgets its history is doomed to repeat its mistakes. That is why it is our responsibility to remind future generations of the long and difficult road that led to the freedoms we enjoy today. Only by keeping these values alive can we ensure that our society continues to move forward, embracing inclusivity, justice, and a shared commitment to a better future.
Every profession contributes to the strength and progress of our society. From skilled doctors, poets, and engineers to talented mathematicians, lawyers, carpenters, chefs, singers, and cleaners, each person plays a crucial role in shaping our civilisation. However, the significance of their work goes beyond their specific expertise. What truly matters is not just professional excellence but a deeper understanding of the shared values that hold our society together.
Sometimes, people hold degrees, yet we still consider them ignorant. Their ignorance is not about the subject they studied but rather their lack of awareness of the values that civilisation has built. Excelling in a profession is important, but it becomes even more meaningful when accompanied by a commitment to democracy, human rights, the rule of law, and free speech. These values are the foundation of a fair and just society, ensuring that progress is not only technological or economic but also social and ethical.
The idea is simple but profound: despite our different roles and backgrounds, we are all part of a larger system that relies on cooperation and shared principles. A society where individuals work only for their own success, without considering the broader framework that allows that success to exist, risks losing its direction. Skills and knowledge are powerful, but without a guiding sense of purpose, they can become disconnected from the greater good.
Keeping these values alive is not a passive task; it requires active participation. We must not only acknowledge their importance but engage in discussions that refine and strengthen them over time. Civilisation is not a fixed concept; it evolves with each generation, and its survival depends on our willingness to protect and improve its core principles.
Ultimately, the responsibility does not end with us. It must be passed on to future generations, ensuring that they understand the importance of their contributions, regardless of their chosen path. More than just technical skills or professional success, true progress comes from a collective effort to uphold and enhance the values that define our society. This broader perspective transforms work into something more than just a job; it becomes part of a shared mission to build a better, more just world for all.
