The topic known as mindfulness is often considered a means for self-evaluation but not a method for social change. However, Daniel Barbezat argues that, much like the Socratic idea of self-reflection, his belief in what he calls “interiority” can be a modality for social correction. In his opinion, mindfulness can be used not only to become aware of human nature, but also as a way to start a dialogue and put an end to the flaws it has developed over time. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an original essay Barbazet defines interiority as a person's personal experience of self, that is, how a person experiences the world at large through his or her own perspective. Yet he attempts to take it a step further and examine how personal experience connects to the larger world. He explained that interiority is best found through a period of self-reflection and other contemplative methods. He says that self-reflection breeds awareness and that by seeing ourselves as we truly are, we can more fully see the impact humanity has had on society and our planet. He himself set the example of white privilege, and if only society would open its eyes, communities would see it too. He advanced the idea that those who experience the world without truly seeing it will miss the complexities of America's racial structure but, through awareness and self-reflection, individuals can learn to see their own advantages in society and begin to correct them. On a larger scale, Barbazet argues that self-reflection will reveal even greater impacts on the world. He says humanity has “a big impact” on both society and the planet. Using the example of a new geological epoch (Anthropocene), he shows that man influences everything. We have altered our environment to such an extent that we have caused the Earth to change its geological pattern. In fact, we have so controlled our social structure that we have reallocated the distribution of wealth to more favor the “ruling class,” so to speak. He draws attention to the fact that four hundred Americans own more wealth than half the rest of the population, a staggering inequality. This fact reflects the idea of the “racial bribe,” the idea that poor whites gave up their alliance with poor blacks for the promise of higher social standing instead of fighting the elite upper classes. Barbezat recognizes this imbalance in American society and suggests that, through the power of self-reflection and self-understanding, things can be changed. If we have the power to alter the very geology of our planet, we can change it for the better. Barbezat channels this method through a sort of ethical theory of his own that emphasizes awareness. In the same way that McIntosh fears racial taboo, he values the recognition of social issues in order to start a movement for change. He argues that self-reflection should be used to create a focus on a problem, a specific goal that will lead to social or environmental change. Once the initial position is established, Barbazet says that awareness should shift to analysis, that every action should be approached with the question: “is this aligned with my purpose?” Finally, action should only be taken if it suits a person's purpose. In this way, awareness can be used to promote a social cause. Please note: this is just an example. Get a custom article from our expert writers now. Get an essay.
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