Is it really that hard to be a good person? Why do so many people seem to choose the wrong path in life?
Though not part of the main Mahabharata story, in one of its extensions (Pandava Gita), there is a story which throws some light on this.
When Krishna tried to counsel Duryodhana not to go for war, and explained that it was not the right dharma for a person like him to fight his own brothers, Duryodhana says:
“I know what is Dharma, yet I do not follow it.
I know what is Adharma, yet I cannot refrain from it.”
This gives an insight into human behaviour: knowing what is right does not guarantee doing what is right.
One has to have the will, determination, courage, and the desire to be a good person. It is greed, jealousy, and the inability to deal with temptations that lead us astray.
Is it possible to think of a human being who is always good?
Or is it natural that where there is light, there will also be shadows? (You may now appreciate the choice of the above picture for this post)
Some reflections from books
Gurcharan Das (2009)
This book explores the moral dilemmas faced by individuals in contemporary society through the lens of the Mahabharata. It examines ethics, duty, and the complexities of human nature, prompting reflection on our own moral choices.
→ 2. Humankind: A Hopeful History
Rutger Bregman (2019)
Bregman argues that humanity’s innate goodness drives cooperation, resilience, and progress—challenging cynicism by highlighting kindness, empathy, and collective optimism.
People often exhibit negative behaviour despite expectations to remain positive. Some reasons include:
- Emotional triggers
- Stress and anxiety
- Social influences
- Peer pressure
- Low self-esteem
- Unmet expectations
- Lack of support
If we turn to Western philosophy (which I have not explored deeply), thinkers like Plato, Aristotle, Nietzsche, and Kant interpret this duality in terms of knowledge, morality, and human limitations.
Look to the East, and the perspective becomes more philosophical.
Zen thought often suggests that good and bad are constructs—ultimately illusions that can be transcended. This resonates with Advaita philosophy in its deeper understanding.
I do not think there is an absolute truth here.
Except that, once we begin to reflect on these questions, we are already moving in the right direction.
A story to end with
A grandfather speaks to his grandson about the internal struggles within every human being.
He says that within each person, there are two wolves constantly fighting.
- One represents anger, envy, greed, resentment, and fear
- The other represents love, joy, peace, humility, kindness, and compassion
The grandson asks:
“Which wolf wins?”
The grandfather replies:
“The one you feed.”
Act with intention. Rest in virtue. Trust the unfolding.