Love of money though still not enough corruption

Money is neutral — neither inherently good nor bad. It serves as a medium of exchange for goods and services, facilitating the distribution of resources. While money supports livelihoods, the love of money is a psychological attachment that fosters an insatiable greed for wealth — one that extends beyond life's necessities, such as "putting food on the table" or securing financial stability. Scriptures have long warned against this obsession. The Bible states, "For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil.…and it pierced them with many griefs" (Timothy 6:10), while the Qur'an warns, "Whoever is greedy for unjust gain troubles his household, but he who hates bribes will live" (15:27). These divine admonitions remain relevant, as the love of money continues to fuel unethical behaviour and societal corruption. Our relationship with money begins in childhood, as we see its importance in how securely it is kept and how it allows us to acquire goods and toys. We also begin comparing ourselves with others, fueling a desire to match or surpass their possessions. This early attachment to money is shaped by our parents' approach to spending, their ability to meet our needs and wants, and their honesty in financial matters. Beyond necessities, parental money management profoundly influences a child's developing attitudes toward wealth. Whether parents prioritise luxuries, vacations, charity, or generosity toward family and friends, these behaviours silently shape a child's moral compass and financial mindset. According to social learning theory (Furnham, 1996), children internalise these observations, which mold their lifelong relationship with money — whether they learn to earn and use it responsibly or develop an unhealthy craving, seeking it at all costs. Studies indicate that children raised in environments where wealth is ethically earned and spent responsibly tend to develop strong moral foundations, a solid work ethic, empathy, and meaningful relationships — a same behaviour expected in adulthood. Conversely, those raised in households where wealth is acquired through unethical means and spent without hesitation often struggle with entitlement, moral ambiguity, and a preference for easy money. Many develop transactional relationships, heightened anxiety and guilt with a propensity to perpetuate cycles of corruption. As we transition into adulthood, financial ambitions intensify due to biological, psychological and societal demands. Humans are naturally driven to seek rewards that triggers dopamine release — a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure, satisfaction, and motivation. The dopamine rush reinforces repeated actions that bring joy, such as family gatherings, outings, sports, travel, or indulging in food and luxury purchases. However, just as with power and sensual pleasures, excessive money-gain can induce extreme dopamine surges, leading to addiction-like behaviour. Over time, the brain becomes desensitised, requiring greater money-gain to sustain the same level of satisfaction. Left unchecked, the love of money can morph into fixated greed, compelling individuals to chase wealth regardless of its ethical implications. Research has established a direct correlation between an obsessive love of money and unethical behaviour. It also suggested that men are inclined to engage in unethical behaviour more than women. Several key factors drive this association: Motivation - a biological component that justifies any means necessary to acquire wealth. Success - a cognitive component that equates financial accumulation with personal achievement. Importance - a cognitive component that prioritises money as the ultimate measure of value. Richness - a psycho-emotional component that links wealth to happiness, health, and ego satisfaction. Interestingly, people's relationship with money often evolves over time. Some experience a decline in their obsession, due to the marginal utility of wealth, and as they progress through Maslow's hierarchy of needs, many shift their focus toward self-actualisation, seeking purpose beyond financial gains. However, those struggling with economic hardship often remain fixated on wealth, only remedy to their problems (Lim et al., 1997). The love of money is a moving target, changes at different stages of life. For some, it begins as a functional necessity but eventually becomes an abstract, insatiable pursuit. Ancient philosopher Epicurus (341 BC) observed that wealth is hollow - no amount of money is ever enough to eliminate the perpetual desire for more. This creates a self-reinforcing cycle where individuals chase increasing amounts of wealth, only to find their satisfaction gap widening. Among the personality traits associated with the love of money, Machiavellianism is the most toxic. Studies describe it as a mindset devoid of empathy, morality, or ideological commitment. Such individuals are prone to deceit, manipulation, and fraud, selecting personal gain over all else. In Pakistan, the unchecked love of money has fueled rampant corruption, costing the country 2-5% of its GDP annually, compared to less than 0.5% in nearly corruption-free nations like Switzerland. In 2024, this translated to staggering losses of Rs5.244 trillion ($18.73 billion). High-profile politicians, state office holders, institutions, and influential individuals have been implicated in mega financial scandals. The ill-gotten wealth is estimated at Rs3.337 trillion ($11.918 billion) across 15 cases. While some cases have been closed or withdrawn, and others may be politically motivated, the undeniable fact is that corruption has deeply permeated the fabric of the country. The corruption thrives due to politicians legislating their own protection, a weak judiciary, selective justice, flawed investigations, and poor prosecution. This is reinforced by a culture that prioritises wealth, regardless of its origin, over Islam's mandate earning through honest means. The absence of consequences normalises corruption, creating a system where the powerful or money-rich feel untouchable. If left unchecked, this system may eventually collapse under its own wickedness, forcing a painful and costly correction. However, with political will, transparency, and across-the-board accountability - strengthened by a dedicated cabinet-level oversight and the establishment of a ministerial position — Pakistan can dismantle this destructive cycle. It is crucial to recognise that money, in itself, is not the problem; it is how individuals and societies choose to acquire and utilise it. A shift in mindset, reinforced by ethical governance and personal responsibility, can curb the excessive love of money and mitigate its destructive consequences which are essential for just and equitable society where financial success aligns with moral integrity.

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