Sorcerer wrote:I wanted to ask what people on here think the role of martial arts should be in society. Obviously traditionally Masters were very much concerned with the development of their disciples. This does have social implications. Its probably marginal though because very few people can reach these levels in modern times.
I think that the role of martial arts in society is a great topic.
I like to consider that some cultures had a caste system with a warrior caste and also with martial arts specific to several of the castes, in these cases the social role of the warrior caste and of martial arts relating to that was clearly defined. However this is now obscure, in terms of modernity.
Today the role of martial arts most pertinent is individualistic, as opposed to societal. As society is a collective manifestation of individuals the role of martial arts to individuals informs the social manifestation of their role.
It is my belief that we are in a great era for martial arts, there is a tremendous amount of skill and knowledge out there being preserved and practiced in a historically accurate manner. YMAA is a fine example of this, as is also the WTBA and many other organizations. I have been deeply impressed with many individuals and what they bring to the table, so to speak. There is controversy, but this is not new and was also common place hundreds of years ago, naysayers who denounce everyone have always been around and always will be and are an important part of the social manifestation.
We see martial arts being used for personal development in numerous ways, one of my favorite is in terms of character. Individuals who have achieved a higher level are evidenced by their demeanor, tact, respect and WuDe, in addition to their skill. In social terms this manifests beautifully as conscientious action and consideration, which sadly is not well represented online in forums.
In a broad sense martial arts today are employed for many things, from health, to entertainment, personal development, and of course martial skill. Their role is thus multifaceted and complex.
Society benefits from WuDe, it creates a sense of community and family where people from diverse backgrounds, and different martial arts as well, can come together and share thief knowledge and skills.
I have seen the global community doing amazing things relating to martial arts, there are literally thousands of talented skilled people working, striving and sharing together.
The social role is to "stop the spear from being used"