Examining Our World in 2024

The world in 2024 is at a critical juncture, facing a series of interlinked crises: environmental degradation, economic inequality, and political instability. Each of these challenges can be understood through the lens of the Oneness Movement (OM), which emphasizes higher consciousness (HC), collective well-being, and a move away from lower consciousness (LC) values such as selfishness, greed, and short-term thinking. As we examine the current state of the world, OM offers a framework to navigate the present challenges and envision a future rooted in wisdom, compassion, and sustainability.

1. Environmental Crisis: A Reflection of LC Principles

The climate crisis is perhaps the most visible and urgent manifestation of humanity’s LC mentality. Despite decades of scientific warnings, global emissions continue to rise, and ecosystems are being destroyed at alarming rates. July 2024 recorded the hottest days on record, and wildfires, floods, and extreme weather events are becoming more frequent across the globe​ (The University of Sydney). Human activities—fueled by a relentless pursuit of material gain and short-term profits—are driving us toward ecological collapse.

From an OM perspective, this environmental destruction is a direct result of disconnection from Oneness. Humanity’s obsession with consumption, exploitation of resources, and disregard for the interconnectedness of life has led to a world where we are willing to sacrifice the planet for short-term gains. Higher consciousness (HC), as advocated by OM, calls for a shift in this mentality—one that recognizes the sacredness of life, respects the balance of ecosystems, and places compassion for all beings at the center of our decision-making.

Practical solutions rooted in OM include a radical transformation toward sustainable living: prioritizing renewable energy, reducing consumption, and embracing regenerative practices that heal rather than exploit the Earth. Lowering the human ecological footprint is key, and this requires both systemic changes and individual responsibility.

2. Economic Instability and Inequality: The Product of LC Greed

The global economic system remains dominated by LC values, particularly in the form of economic inequality and a reliance on debt-based growth. As of 2024, economic growth has stagnated, particularly in developing nations, and wealth inequality has reached unprecedented levels​ (World Bank). The richest individuals and corporations continue to amass wealth, while billions of people face poverty, lack of access to essential resources, and social inequality.

From OM’s perspective, this system of hoarding wealth and using economic power to exploit others is a reflection of selfishness and greed, values that keep humanity trapped in lower consciousness. In contrast, higher consciousness (HC) economic systems would prioritize value over profit, service over material gain, and the well-being of all over the accumulation of wealth by a few. OM envisions a world where businesses operate in service to humanity, the planet, and higher principles, where cooperation replaces cutthroat competition, and where human needs are met sustainably and ethically.

To move toward such a future, the global economy would need to embrace compassionate capitalism—an approach that rewards value creation, ethical innovation, and the reduction of harm to both people and the planet. It requires restructuring the way wealth is distributed and the role of corporations in society, ensuring they serve the collective good rather than concentrating power among a select few.

3. Political Instability: The Rise of Division and Extremism

The political landscape in 2024 is characterized by polarization, populist movements, and the erosion of democratic principles. Around the world, extremist agendas are gaining traction as people, disillusioned with the status quo, turn to radical solutions. In countries like the United States, political violence and distrust in the electoral process are on the rise​v(CIDOB). In Europe, far-right movements continue to grow in power, while authoritarian regimes tighten their grip on societies in regions like Russia and Belarus.

OM views this fragmentation and conflict as rooted in fear and separation—hallmarks of lower consciousness. The focus on division, us versus them mentalities, and the use of violence to maintain or gain power are clear signs that humanity is operating out of ego rather than unity. In contrast, higher consciousness politics would be characterized by cooperation, dialogue, and a focus on shared humanity. OM’s vision of the future includes political systems that elevate compassion and justice, where leaders serve the collective rather than their own interests.

OM advocates for political movements that are inclusive, that seek to heal societal divides, and that place wisdom at the forefront of governance. This involves reforming political institutions to be more transparent, accountable, and focused on the well-being of all citizens. In a higher consciousness political system, leaders would emerge not from those who seek power for its own sake but from those committed to serving humanity.

4. Mental Health Crisis: A Symptom of Disconnection from Oneness

Globally, mental health issues are on the rise, with increasing rates of depression, anxiety, and stress across all age groups. This mental health crisis is linked to a broader sense of disconnection from purpose, belonging, and meaning. The CONAF (Circle of Needs and Fulfillment) system developed by OM illustrates how unmet needs, such as safety, belonging, and meaning, lead to emotional distress and psychological suffering.

In the modern world, people’s sense of self-worth is often tied to external validation, material success, and competition, leading to chronic feelings of inadequacy and loneliness. From an OM perspective, this crisis is the result of living out of alignment with Oneness. True mental health and well-being can only be achieved when individuals feel connected to something greater—whether it is community, nature, or spiritual consciousness.

OM promotes a holistic approach to mental health, one that addresses the root causes of suffering by cultivating inner peace, mindfulness, and a deep sense of interconnectedness with others. It calls for a transformation of mental health systems to focus on healing, personal growth, and the integration of spiritual wisdom into psychological care.

Conclusion: The Need for Higher Consciousness

The current state of the world, from climate change to economic inequality and political unrest, is a manifestation of lower consciousness values that prioritize self-interest, consumption, and division. To move beyond this crisis, humanity must embrace a higher consciousness, grounded in the principles of Oneness, compassion, and wisdom.

The Oneness Movement (OM) offers a path forward—one that envisions a world where people live in harmony with each other and the Earth, where economic systems serve the collective good, and where political systems are built on justice and cooperation. By shifting toward higher consciousness, we can address the root causes of the world’s problems and build a future that is sustainable, equitable, and filled with purpose.