"Individuals" are functional systems connected through larger order systems. This is the metaphysics behind "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you," "What goes around comes around," and "in the end, the love you take is equal to the love you make." All true.

Reducing suffering in the world is the highest purpose.

Violence occurs naturally, it always has, from the smallest cell membranes to erupting volcanoes. Notice, however, that violence occurs with pressure. As intellectual beings, we should make a better effort to recognize these pressures and work to resolve them peacefully.