"There are seven things that will destroy us: Wealth without work; Pleasure without conscience; Knowledge without character; Religion without sacrifice; Politics without principle; Science without humanity; Business without ethics." ~Ghandi.
I think that Ghandi had it about right... Anytime that you see people doing the above or others looking the other direction, this can definitely happen. Interpret how you wish, but I have seen enough of these "destroyers" of humans decency and integrity of late, that I am inclined to think that about 75% of people DO NOT live with the qualities of hard work, conscience, character, sacrifice, principle, humanity, or ethics. If this is the case, then it is a sad, sorry world we live in. However, metaphorically, I don't think that he necessarily meant the external destruction.
I truly think he meant the internal destruction that impacts individuals and then rises to the surface so that it affects others. So when we are selfish, ignore the truth and out conscience, live without integrity, believe in something, don't stick to our principles and through that forget how all of this impacts humanity, then we are without a moral and ethical compass. Instead we become deceitful and in trying to hide our seven things ab, we become desperate in our attempt to hide our true nature. Once this facade or the mask is on, we try to pacify ourselves and our fear of being found out by allowing ourselves to become the very people we said that we detested.
Oh and are we ever sucked in to the drama and the games that feed the hatefulness and spite that grows deep within. The easiest way to remove ones self from this type of situation is to allow yourself to become vulnerable. Accepting your shortcomings and to tell the truth. I think that my friend Irena said it best in the form of an old Bosnian Proverb, "Who lies for you, will lie against you". That I have come to find out is very true, because in the end the only people hurting are ourselves. No matter what though, truth prevails and I have confidence that what is done in secret has been and will be brought to light.... It is only a matter of time...
