The World Health Organization's Commission on Social Determinants of Health
reports that “social injustice is killing people on a grand scale”. While the
inequities between countries is well known, the Commission documents “gradients”
within countries.
Life expectancy for indigenous Australian males, for instance, is shorter by 17
years than all other Australian males. Maternal mortality is 3 to 4 times higher
among the poor compared with the rich in Indonesia. A baby born to a Bolivian
mother with no education has a 10% of dying, while one with at least secondary
education has a .4% chance. Similar discrepancies exist in Canada.
“Biology does not explain any of this. Instead, the differences between – and
within countries - result in part from the social environment where people are
born, live, grow, work and age.”
Economic growth and scientific advances have not always improved the overall
health of people. Without better distribution, national wealth can increase the
inequities. Interestingly, some low income countries such as Cuba, Costa Rica,
China, Sri Lanka and the state of Kerala in India have achieved levels of good
health despite low levels of national income.
Good health is not just the result of social justice, economic resources and
medical advances. The origin of the word 'health' is 'whole', To be healthy is
to be whole, integrating and harmonizing thoughts, feelings and actions toward a
purpose higher than one's own little desires. Being guided by a star leading to
more beauty, justice and love is an antidote to apathy, hate, anger, jealousy
and other dis-eases. It cures many physical ailments and puts joy and order into
listless and chaotic lives. Health in this broader sense is both an inside job
and a spiritual journey.
For those interested in walking the path, the coaches and guides who enlighten
and encourage continue to be the ancient philosophers such as Marcus Aurelius,
Confucius, Buddha and Plato. The coaches and lovers of wisdom at New Acropolis
welcome with warmth and generosity new travellers and seekers.
