Lust is neither good nor bad. It is a mediator between the extremes of pain and well-being. It can lead us to the depths of despair if it gets out of control, but also to the highest fulfillment if we use it consciously and with mindfulness. Ultimately, desire is a guide, not a destination.

The problem lies not in the desire itself, but in the often lack of awareness of its consequences. People have more or less a moral sense, but the immediate lure of pleasure often overrides reflection on long-term consequences. To use pleasure as a source of happiness or enlightenment, it is crucial to combine it with mindfulness and responsibility.

The scale of pain and well-being is dynamic and individual. The definitions are constantly changing depending on experience and level of development. It is difficult to understand higher definitions or to expose simple solutions as inferior because they often seem tantalizingly simple. However, true well-being requires reflection, maturity and long-term thinking.

But I think a simple indicator: The development towards higher perspectives is often reflected in people taking responsibility not only for themselves, but also for others. You can recognize descending thinking because it revolves around the 'I' or an exclusive 'we' that draws boundaries and excludes. It also accepts that someone will be harmed. It doesn't matter whether the other person agrees to this harm or not. Consensus is a necessary condition but not a sufficient justification for actions that cause harm.

Carmen Wrede

Dear Carmen,

Your question beautifully captures the inherent complexity of the subject. To address it, let us first establish a foundational understanding: Lust, as a homonym, carries dual potential—it can either lead us towards destruction or guide us to a higher plane of existence, depending on how it is understood and channeled.

In its negative connotation, unbridled lust has been a key driver of many societal problems—addiction, objectification, and the erosion of relationships. This aligns with what I’ve explored in my work, such as "Masturbation: End of the World, Self-Control a New Beginning", where I detail how unchecked indulgence creates cycles of dependence and decline.

However, lust in its positive, spiritual sense—what I call healthy passion—can be transformative. Here, lust is not about consumption but connection. In this light, it becomes a powerful force that drives creativity, intimacy, and even enlightenment. This concept is rooted in ancient philosophies, such as the disciplined practices outlined in the Kama Sutra, which I also critique in my paper "Kama Sutra: A Pandora's Box of Evils". When approached responsibly, it can nurture harmony, bliss, and even transcendence.

Consider this analogy: fire can destroy, but it also warms and illuminates. It is our understanding, control, and purpose that determine its outcome. The same applies to human desires. Modern societies often view lust through a narrow, consumerist lens, ignoring its potential as a gateway to profound experiences and spiritual growth. This is why education, mentorship, and conscious living are critical.

To achieve a shift, I propose the following:

Ultimately, Carmen, the solution lies in persistence and vision—qualities we’ve seen transform societies, from the abolition of slavery to the peace efforts post-WWII. Why not apply the same determination to redefine something as intrinsic as human desire?

Your question and our subsequent dialogue can inspire others to explore this topic deeply. Together, we can guide this conversation to be a beacon for transformation, not just in academic circles but for humanity at large.

Looking forward to your thoughts!

Warm regards, Sandeep Jaiswal

Author of “Dark Matter is Just Gravity” and a seeker of truth in material and spiritual realms

Sandeep Jaiswal

Dear Sandeep,

but the other side also believes that they can reach that higher plane through pain. And they are very active to press their narrative through the media with a lot of money behind it.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fmC6b6_ovZY

Same goes for the narrative of the necessity of dividing society (mainly by pushing nationalism and fascism), necessity of war and so on. And finally the necessity of murder.

Why? Personally I think because the logically most morally superior thing that stands in their way was defined by Albert Camus:

"We know nothing until we know whether we have the right to kill the other person in front of us or to consent to him being killed. Since every action today leads directly or indirectly to murder, we cannot act until we know whether and why we should kill.".

Ah, the abyss of existentialism, where it is sufficient to have the right argument.

And this was all they were able to pull out their pants. Their ultimate "dick pic" so to say. Would you like me to show it to you (it appears towards the end)?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KzBo-3esoGs

It's a bit ridiculous and compared to what we are able to think also tiny. But OK. Some people just have a tiny "dick". Let's not judge, but just consider the fact that tinyness of mind exists.

And as a matter of fact: If you stare long enough into the abyss the abyss starts to stare back.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9IEj3nY_nP8