Why Interconnectedness Matters
“The wonders of the universe are revealed to us in the meditation on interdependence. We can see that for one thing to exist, everything else also needs to exist.”
Interconnectedness itself is a cycle that encompasses many aspects of well-being. When we understand the true nature of ourselves, we better understand the true nature of society. We can then use that enhanced understanding to gain an even deeper understanding of both ourselves and society, and so on in a repeating cycle (Chernus, 2004). Connection to others provides societal benefits like reducing violence and increasing compassion. If we can see the good in others, we can be more fully aware of their intentions and motivations, which can help us to relieve the suffering that goes on in the world.
The Benefits of Interconnectedness
Current research shows many benefits for interconnectedness. Basic human nature requires us to be involved with other people; strong social relationships lead to happier and longer lives (Sakurai et al., 2019). Emotional attachment and commitment to others has been shown to adapt beliefs, attitudes, and values of the group as our own (Phua, 2013). This attachment has a powerful effect on self-efficacy, self-control, and self-esteem. Similarly, social support provides aid to our struggles and promotes better standings in terms of depression, coping, and stress (Beaudoin & Tao, 2007). Even being in the presence of uplifting people can greatly improve our well-being. The natural solution is to strengthen connections with others around us. Researcher Ban Beuttner and his team provided evidence for this conclusion as they studied the world’s “Blue Zones”, which are communities where it is common to live to 100 years old in good health. Over the course of their journey, they found nine common lifestyle choices. One of the most important lifestyle choices was connecting with others in long term close relationships, which acted as a main contributor to that longevity of life. Here’s a video where Beutter discusses his findings:
Connection with others increases prosocial behavior and a belief that you can make a difference in the world (Cojuharenco et al., 2016). Sharing meaning with others gives us greater purpose and direction. You have probably noticed this in your own life; when you surround yourself with supportive people, the light in your life naturally increases. You likely feel yourself become more hopeful and transcendent (Haugan, 2014). This is because when we realize our inter-being, we can discover greater joy and well-being.
Interconnectedness is supported by scientific, religious, and native worldviews. Extending loving kindness and compassion beyond our closest relationships to include all others allows us to experience a wider circle of connection and joy. These relationships include the wider circle or web of all living and nonliving things. All these creations enrich us and give our lives a sense of connection and meaning as we respond to the responsibility we have to care for them. We experience less conflict and have a mutuality of equality in our attitude toward them. We are filled with a sense of mindful presence and kinship that motivates us toward right action as we care for ourselves and the universe that we are all a part of. Because we are not separate, but interconnected, we can experience a deeper sense of happiness and well-being.