Is There Existential Value in Relationships?

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Melam says there's a difference between ameliorative and existential activities. Activities that solve problems or meet needs, but not those we'd rather do without. She argues art is an example of exessential value which can lift your spirits. Tony contakanlinked to her her episode on her book, lost in thought.

John Stuart Mill's midlife crisis came at 20 when he realized that if he got what he desired he still wouldn't be happy. Art and poetry (and maybe love) saved the day for him. In this week's episode, philosopher Kieran Setiya of MIT talks about his book Midlife with EconTalk host Russ Roberts. Setiya argues we can learn from Mill to help deal with the ennui to which so many midlifers succumb--along with regrets for roads not taken and wistfulness for what could have been. Setiya argues that a well-lived life needs fewer projects and more pursuits that don't have goals or endpoints. He explains why past mistakes can turn out to be good things and how lost chances can help us appreciate the richness of life.