Gary Dean - Posts

Script: Defining Dharma

 – A Journey to the West

# Introduction *Visual opens with a montage of diverse cultures, ancient texts, and historical figures associated with the concept of dharma.* **Narrator (Gary Dean):** "Dharma—a word rich in history, yet often misunderstood, especially in the Western world where it remains a relative newcomer. Despite its profound significance across various Eastern philosophies and religions, its true essence often eludes clear definition in the West. "What is 'dharma'? What is 'a' dharma'? What is 'the' dharma'? What do we truly mean when we use this word? "These questions have driven my exploration for many years. As an anthropologist, I've delved into the depths of human evolutionary biology, evolutionary psychology, anthropology, and sociology to unravel the complexities of this concept. "My journey has been guided and enriched by the insights of numerous thinkers and schola

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Bizarre YouTube Censorship

 – wtf? SRSLY? :facepalm:

Some friends and I have a YouTube channel called ['a secular dharma?'](https://youtube.com/@aseculardharma). This channel has long -- often boring -- discussions about the nature and definition of dharma, and about life in general. In Sept 2024, YouTube removed a video entitled "Metaphysical Thinking - Father Xmas - Cargo Cults", _posted more than 4.5 years ago_, claiming that it violated their **"Violent extremist or criminal organisations policy"**. This is a transcript of the section deemed "problematic" by YouTube: --- And that is the basis of a collective vision of a collective belonging to something. And I mean, and the QAnon phenomenon is pretty much the same thing. It's a cargo cult in some ways. Absolutely, yeah. Yeah, it's relief from their suffering because I mean, obviously the people who believe this are the ones who are suffering in America. And

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Defining Dharma

 – ways, paths, cultures, outlooks

## The Etymology of 'Dharma' The word 'dharma' carries profound significance in various philosophical, religious, and cultural traditions. Understanding its etymology provides valuable insights into its multifaceted nature and enduring relevance in human thought and behavior. ### Origins in Sanskrit The term **'dharma'** originates from the ancient Sanskrit language, one of the oldest Indo-European languages. It is derived from the root **'dhṛ'** (धृ), which means "to hold," "to maintain," or "to support." From this root, the noun **'dharma'** (धर्म) emerged, translating to "that which upholds" or "that which sustains." At its core, the etymological meaning of dharma reflects its role as a sustaining force, whether in the cosmic sense or in social and ethical contexts. Dharma signifies the underlying principles or laws that uphold the universe, ensurin

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