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Agnes Callard on Meaning, the Human Quest, and the Aims of Education

EconTalk

The Distinction between Tellic and Atelic Activities. Aristotle. Human species ending?

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Grad school can feel like a never-ending cycle, but there's something thrilling about being immersed in learning and intellectual pursuits. However, it's easy to question the purpose of these activities without a bigger story to anchor them. As a grad student, finding meaning can be challenging, and it's tempting to get lost in recreational pursuits. The key is to strike a balance between tellic activities (with a clear goal) and a tellic activities (without a goal). Even though life is on track, engaging in a tellic activity, like reading a beloved book or listening to music, can still bring immense joy. This is similar to Aristotle's distinction between enirgea (activities with an end goal) and kinasis (movements that arrive at an end). Some things may seem pointless, but they can still hold value and enjoyment along the way.

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