[Opinion] When There’s Nothing to Throw Away

Philosopher Erich Fromm (1900∼1980) divided people into two categories: existence-oriented and possession-oriented. For the former what is important is not possessing the flower, but enjoying it. For the latter what is important is not the flower, but who possesses it. Thus, the latter judges a person not by who they are but by how much they own. Fromm cast a dismal outlook on possession-oriented life, since human greed and possession are limitless.

The happiness of emptiness sometimes comforts the have-nots. These days, however, rich people are also seeking this kind of happiness. According to a May 17 New York Times report, a new trend among the rich is to take the highest path by escaping civilization in favor of nature and its beauty.

On May 19 there was a posting on the Washington Journal’s blog about a forty-something billionaire who owns more than 50 investment consulting firms, sold everything and now stays at hotels as a “homeless” person. He reportedly plans to donate his entire assets to charity. He’s one of a new group focusing on existence over possession. For these people, donation is not an act intended to compensate for a wrong, but an act that in itself gives pleasure.

But this glorious move isn’t easily sold to a parent who has almost nothing to throw away. Priests are persuasive when they talk about this. But when I realize this person never has to worry about putting food on his table, I admit, I grow agitated. I guess it is fair to say, then, that greed is a natural part of being human. It’s up to each individual to decide whether to keep or throw away. After all, human history has been advanced by those who needed something.

Editorial Writer Heo Mun-myeong (angelhuh@donga.com)