[seiji]

Completely rejecting society is one of the most self-centered and egotistical things you can do. Only two classes of people obtain it: the very wealthy (basically, FU money) and vow-of-sileince monks (basically, "I'm never going to interact with humanity again").

[j45]

There is a third way, of being present in the world for your worldly obligations, and being able to pursue your personal/inner growth and experience as well.

[jayfuerstenberg]

You can always reject one aspect of society while embracing another.

I understand how the author here feels. The whole market economy/consumption cycle is dehumanizing and serves those already in possession of excess riches at the expense of the common folk.

It sounds as if he just wants to try living for himself a bit more by being mindful of his purchases. He's more awake than most of the people I know so good on him, regardless of his sentiments towards society.

[foobarbazqux]

I agree that choosing poverty as a lifestyle can be egotistical, but monastic silence does not mean never interacting with humanity again. It's more to do with not speaking unnecessarily.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Monastic_silence#Practice_of_s...