Speaking to the Tulane graduates, the Dalai Lama addressed the materialistic culture that often accompanies modern education. He argued that while society and competition can make aggressiveness and selfishness grow stronger, these tendencies can be reduced through education and awareness — not necessarily through religious faith, but simply through common sense. He made the direct and simple observation that genuine happiness comes from emotional well-being rather than material wealth. This was part of his broader appeal for graduates to balance their intellectual achievements with what he called 'warm-heartedness,' warning that brilliant people who neglect compassion can become troublemakers on the planet.