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4. A Philosophy
As your knowledge grows, you may find Philosophy useful to think deeper about life and the meaning of existence.
I am attracted to the Existentialist school of philosophy. I like some of the ideas and explanations. It was a movement of thought about literacy, art and philosophy that emerged in the 1940’s and the 1950’s.
Existentialism is a philosophy that emphasises individual freedom, existence and choice. It is the view that humans define their own meaning in life and try to make rational (reasonable) decisions despite living in an irrational world
www.philosophybasics.com>branch_existentialism
In simple terms, existentialism is a philosophy concerned with finding self and the meaning of life through free will, choice and personal responsibility.
www.allaboutphilosophy.org>existentialism
Thomas Greening, in a paper titled “Existential Challenges and Responses” identifies four existential challenges faced by humans as they live their lives. These challenges are a both a blessing and a curse. They represent the Contradictions or the Paradox of life (both words mean the same). The four Paradoxes of Life are:
| Relevance/Insignificance We look for Meaning But live in a chaotic confusing world |
| Engagement/ Isolation We Belong and connect But face Loneliness and disconnection |
| Life / Mortality We are Alive. We Exist But we don’t Live Forever |
| Choice/ Constraints – We have Freedom But forces try to restrict freedoms |
How we deal with these four paradoxes is what Existentialist regard, as the challenge of existence. These contradictions are the opposite sides of the same thing.
The beauty of these paradoxes is that it can drive creativity as we consider the contradictions. When opposite ideas clash, it can lead to creativity, violence or capitulation. Its your choice how you respond.
So, the important point is that your life is not a dress rehearsal. It takes effort to make your life meaningful and purposeful. You can go as deep as you want in searching for meaning.
Make your Life count.
Don’t squander this chance of life.
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