Chief among these is that of unity in diversity. Human society is composed not of a mass of merely differentiated cells but of associations of individuals, each one of whom is endowed with intelligence and will nevertheless, the modes of operation that characterize man's biological nature illustrate fundamental principles of existence. There is, indeed, no other model in phenomenal existence to which we can reasonably look. Its watchword is unity in diversity.īahá’u’lláh compared the world to the human body. It repudiates excessive centralization on the one hand, and disclaims all attempts at uniformity on the other. It insists upon the subordination of national impulses and interests to the imperative claims of a unified world. It calls for a wider loyalty, for a larger aspiration than any that has animated the human race. It does not ignore, nor does it attempt to suppress, the diversity of ethnical origins, of climate, of history, of language and tradition, of thought and habit, that differentiate the peoples and nations of the world. Its purpose is neither to stifle the flame of a sane and intelligent patriotism in men's hearts, nor to abolish the system of national autonomy so essential if the evils of excessive centralization are to be avoided.

It can conflict with no legitimate allegiances, nor can it undermine essential loyalties. Far from aiming at the subversion of the existing foundations of society, it seeks to broaden its basis, to remold its institutions in a manner consonant with the needs of an ever-changing world. Let there be no misgivings as to the animating purpose of the world-wide Law of Bahá’u’lláh.

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