Rewrite Reality: How to Stay Human in a Profoundly Sick Society → Gregg The Artivist

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Season 01 | Episode 02

What if the real challenge isn’t surviving the system, but staying human inside it?

“In a profoundly sick society that rewards burnout, disconnection, and endless productivity, staying human becomes an act of resistance.”

In this episode of Rewrite Reality, Gregg explores what it means to stay human in a world that often feels designed to wear us down.

This is a reflective invitation to slow down, notice what the system asks of us, and reconnect with what truly matters.

What does it mean to keep our empathy, curiosity, and sense of care alive in a culture that constantly pulls us away from ourselves and each other?

And what becomes possible when we stop trying to fit into a sick society… and start choosing to live differently?

About this episode:

Running time: 10:30mins
Recorded and published: 27th July 2024
Last updated: 17th September 2025

‘Profoundly Sick Society’ Transcript:

Welcome to Rewrite Reality, where we peel back the layers of how we imagine our world — then explore what it means to build different futures. I’m Gregg the Artivist. And on today’s episode, we’ll dive into How to Stay Human in a Sick Society.

Join me to reflect, challenge assumptions and spark possibility. Thanks for being here — let’s get into it.

Are we living in a profoundly sick society?

Are we living in a profoundly sick society? And what does it actually mean?

I’ve been thinking a lot lately about how to navigate and thrive in what many describe as a ‘profoundly sick society’ without losing ourselves or our values. I’m excited to dive into this topic today and even more eager to hear your thoughts, so please share your comments below.
Let’s jump right in!

Years ago, I came across a powerful quote from Indian philosopher Jiddu Krishnamurti: “It is no measure of health to be well-adjusted to a profoundly sick society.” This quote has stuck with me, and I caught myself quoting it the other day to emphasise the challenge of fitting into a world that is fundamentally flawed. Essentially, Krishnamurti is saying that if we conform to society’s expectations—for example securing high-paying jobs, owning homes and cars, enjoying luxurious holidays, wearing latest fashion, having the latest gadgets, and achieving financial freedom—then in a profoundly sick society, we are merely aligning ourselves with its inherent issues. In other words, we are the problem.
This conundrum has weighed on my mind: how can we achieve what society values without perpetuating its problems?

The idea of a “profoundly sick society”

The idea of a “profoundly sick society” points to critical issues in modern civilization: inequality, environmental degradation, social isolation, and the prioritization of material wealth over human well-being. These concerns fuel my passion for climate justice. And If you missed my last vlog on this topic, you can catch it through the link above or in the description box below.
As a society, we are becoming more aware of inequality and injustice. Economic disparity continues to grow, with wealth concentrated in the hands of a few while many live in poverty. Industrialisation and consumerism have caused significant environmental damage, contributing to climate change and loss of biodiversity. Technology and it’s advancements, while beneficial, have also led to increased social isolation, loneliness, and mental health issues. The emphasis on materialism often overshadows the importance of community, relationships, and personal fulfillment.

So, how do we live meaningfully in this ‘profoundly sick society’ without overly adjusting to its potentially harmful norms?
On reflection, I’ve notice that my life has kind of evolved around this growing awareness as I’ve become more informed on societal issues. And I’m constantly striving to live in ways that stay true to my beliefs. Last night, I thought about these changes I’ve made to align my life with my values … whether they have been really made conscious or not. I would like to discuss four of these with you today.

Now the first change is Critical Thinking and Awareness.

I truly, honesty believe that we must educate ourselves, going beyond news/media headlines to critically think and ask questions. I find I now do my own research, and where possible consult experts to understand broader contexts, helping me form a conscious opinion or understanding or choice.

Today, we’re bombarded by information driven by algorithms that often reinforce misleading messages. if there is one ting that Psychology has shown, is that without questioning, we start to believe repeated information.

And maybe even more significantly , I’ve become a champion for questioning norms, especially those prioritizing profit over people and the planet. Societal norms are deeply ingrained from an early age, making us think they are our own truths. I remind myself that norms, such as career path expectations, marriage and family, material success, consumerism, body image, aging etc are all constructs with specific purposes. I question their relevance to the world we live in today, to myself and may needs, and who benefits from them, which is usually the few.

I don’t fully trust anything I hear or read until I’ve literally cross-examined it. And I tell people don’t trust me either, don’t simply take my word for it. Do your own research.

Secondly there’s Community building.

In one way or another, no matter where I have lived in the world, I’ve always been part of a community. Nowadays, the need to connect locally and build strong, supportive relationships within my community has become a priority. From something as simple as engaging with neighbours to supporting local organisations, these connections create a sense of belonging and mutual support that is invaluable.

Building or joining supportive networks is equally important. Seeking out like-minded individuals and groups that share my values helps me exchange experiences, hear new perspectives, and discuss solutions to shared concerns. Whether it’s participating in community events, volunteering, or simply having meaningful conversations, these networks provide emotional support and foster collaboration. By being actively involved in my local community and connecting with supportive networks, I find strength, purpose, and a deeper sense of connection to the world around me.

Next is Sustainable Living & Ethical consumption.

In a world of consumerism, I think we all have a pile of stuff hidden away in a cupboard or a shed, out of sight, out of mind. I’ve found myself reverting back to my late teens and early 20s when I lived out of a backpack for many years, embracing a minimalist lifestyle to reduce my reliance on material possessions. Nowadays, I try to have only what I truly need and prioritise experiences and relationships over things.

Additionally, I’m focused on making environmentally conscious choices in my daily life wherever possible. This includes reducing waste, recycling, conscious buying by supporting ethical brands and businesses that align with my values. By avoiding companies known for exploitative practices. And whenever possible, I try to buy local to support small businesses and reduce your carbon footprint. I understand that we are not all financially equal and that making these choices can be challenging. However, I believe it’s important to do the best we can within our means. By adopting a minimalist lifestyle and making mindful choices, we can contribute to a healthier planet while finding greater satisfaction in life’s simple pleasures.

And lastly, its Activism and Advocacy

By engaging in activism and advocacy for causes I care about, I find purpose and fulfillment. Whether through volunteering, participating in protests, or supporting relevant organisations, our voices and critical opinions matter. Using my voice and this YouTube platform to raise awareness about important issues and advocate for change gives me a deep, meaningful purpose.

Creative expression is also a vital part of my artivism. Through art, and whole production around making these videos from script writing through to editing, I process my emotions and share my views on society. This creative outlet not only helps me understand and navigate my feelings but also allows me to communicate complex ideas effectively. By combining activism with creativity, I can inspire others, promote critical thinking, and foster a community of like-minded individuals committed to making a positive impact. This blend of advocacy and artistry empowers me to contribute to societal change in a unique and personal way.

But to wrap things up, living in a society perceived as “sick” doesn’t mean we need to resign to despair. And god only knows I have said countless times ‘ignorance would be bliss’, but instead, it involves making conscious choices that align with our values, fostering community and connection, and working towards positive change in ways that are meaningful to us.

Thank you so much for listening to this episode of Rewrite Reality. If this resonated, consider sharing with someone who might also be thinking deeply about the world around them.
Head over to greggtheartivist.com to explore more: I have the same episode in full, extra content, as well as ways to connect.

Also, if you haven’t yet, subscribe or follow wherever you listen so you catch future episodes.

Until next time, stay curious, keep questioning — together we can reshape what’s possible.

Episode FAQ’s

What does it mean to live in a “profoundly sick society”?

I think this phrase captures something many of us feel but struggle to name. A profoundly sick society is one where inequality grows, communities weaken, people feel more isolated, and the planet is treated like a disposable resource. It is a society where profit is placed above people and where material success is seen as more important than wellbeing or connection. When we adjust ourselves to these values without question, we risk becoming part of the problem rather than part of the solution. I believe the challenge is to stay awake to what feels wrong and to live in ways that reflect our own values rather than society’s expectations.

How can we stay human without absorbing the harmful norms around us?

For me, staying human starts with awareness. I need to question what I am told, look deeper than the headlines, and form my own understanding. I think community is also essential. We do not thrive alone. I have found that connecting with neighbours, local groups, and people who share similar values keeps me grounded. And then there is the way we live each day. Choosing what we buy, what we support, and how we show up in the world can either repeat harmful norms or gently resist them. I try to focus on what feels aligned with my values rather than what society says success should look like. Small choices matter more than we realise.

What practical steps can help us live with integrity in a world that feels broken?

I believe there are four grounding practices. First, critical thinking. I question everything, including my own assumptions. Second, community building. I feel stronger and more hopeful when I am connected to people around me. Third, sustainable choices and ethical consumption. I try to prioritise what I really need and support businesses that do not exploit people or the planet. And fourth, activism and creative advocacy. Using my voice and my art helps me process my feelings and contribute to change in a meaningful way. None of this is about perfection. It is about making choices that reflect who we want to be in a world that often pushes us in the opposite direction.