Meaning, purpose, and value are constructed by the human mind and are relative to each individual, allowing for a flexible approach to finding meaning in life.
All meaning is ultimately connected to survival, and recognizing the relative nature of meaning helps to avoid absolute beliefs.
Enlightenment can be seen as a form of nihilism actualized, allowing for the recognition of the magic and beauty of existence through the lens of an actualized nihilism.
Deep dives
The Relativity of Meaning
Meaning, purpose, and value are constructed by the human mind and are relative to each individual. What is meaningful to one person may not be meaningful to another. This relativity is often misunderstood, leading to confusion and misinterpretation. Understanding that meaning is a personal construction allows for a more flexible and conscious approach to finding and creating meaning in life.
Significance and Survival
All meaning and significance are ultimately connected to survival. Things have meaning because they either benefit or harm an individual's life. Meaning is relative to the self, as each individual's perspective shapes what is significant to them. Recognizing the relative nature of meaning helps to avoid holding absolute beliefs about the inherent meaning of things. Understanding the role of survival in assigning meaning provides a new perspective on the subjective nature of significance.
Embracing Nihilism and Spirituality
Enlightenment can be seen as a form of nihilism actualized. By realizing that everything is ultimately meaningless and constructed by the mind, one can unlock the freedom to live fully and playfully. Nihilism, understood and embraced, allows for the experience of being and the recognition of the magic and beauty of existence. Mainstream spirituality often presents values and moral teachings, but these can only be fully embodied and understood through the lens of an actualized nihilism.
The Illusion of Meaning
Meaning is a construct that humans create and attach to various aspects of life. However, this meaning is ultimately illusory and does not hold any inherent significance. From a broader perspective, everything is equally insignificant or significant, as there is no contrast or hierarchy of meaning. The pursuit of meaning can lead to dissatisfaction and unhappiness, as people endlessly chase external circumstances without realizing that true fulfillment comes from being present and recognizing the ultimate emptiness of meaning.
Embracing Being
Being is the essence of existence, and it holds infinite depth and profoundness. It is important to shift focus from chasing meaning to embracing being. By cultivating an intimate connection with being and developing consciousness, one can experience unconditional satisfaction and freedom. Being fully present in every moment and appreciating the simplicity of existence leads to a more relaxed, playful, and contented life. This doesn't mean disregarding activities or goals, but rather not attaching one's happiness solely to external outcomes or meanings. By understanding the emptiness of meaning and shifting towards being, individuals can find true fulfillment and create their own sense of purpose.