Would you agree with this statement from the Bhagavad-Gita - “Thinking about sense-objects will attach you to sense-objects.” How might such an anti-materialistic position affect one’s life? The culture at large?
Answers
According to Bhagavad Gita, attachment to worldly objects is the root of all sorrow. He requests Arjuna to take his mind away from materialistic things and place all faith and devotion in God. Such an anti-materialistic position will help us to achieve the ultimate goal of human life which is salvation. Our culture will become peaceful and richer because all our focus is on karma not karmaphala.
This statement is true.
However, its practicality in life today, would depend on the person who is receiving this advice. The statement applies to a mature person, who is a believer. For example, a very young school going student might find it hard to understand and put to practise. Whereas for a mature follower of Hindu religion, it carries a lot of weight. Materialistic objects breed desire, frustration, anger and sorrow. If one frees oneself from attachment, it brings peace.
This is from Chapter 2, Verse 62 of Bhagavad Gita – where Lord Krishna advises a frustrated Arjuna.