always_searching Posted September 19, 2009 Share Posted September 19, 2009 I'm Catholic and tend to believe that we are supposed to live good, moral and decent lives (which, of course, indicates the existence of objective values) in order to fulfill our end viz. to become one with God/achieve eternal happiness. In order to do this, tradition seems to indicate a deprivation of body and a sole interest regarding our spirituality. That being said, there are times I wonder why--since we are not merely spiritual, but composite beings--there is so much focus on the spiritual aspect, while our bodily needs i.e. enjoying food, sex, etc. are totally ignored, or at least severely hindered. So, I would love to hear what you guys think! Should life be totally focused on the spirit, body, or some combination of the two? Do you think we should do whatever we want regardless how it is received by others/God? Should we only do what is socially, religiously, and/or culturally acceptable? Should we do whatever we want as long as it doesn't hurt others? I would love for you to share your views on the purpose of life and why you hold them. Link to post Share on other sites
Blackfrost Posted September 19, 2009 Share Posted September 19, 2009 I'm Catholic and tend to believe that we are supposed to live good, moral and decent lives (which, of course, indicates the existence of objective values) in order to fulfill our end viz. to become one with God/achieve eternal happiness. In order to do this, tradition seems to indicate a deprivation of body and a sole interest regarding our spirituality. That being said, there are times I wonder why--since we are not merely spiritual, but composite beings--there is so much focus on the spiritual aspect, while our bodily needs i.e. enjoying food, sex, etc. are totally ignored, or at least severely hindered. So, I would love to hear what you guys think! Should life be totally focused on the spirit, body, or some combination of the two? Do you think we should do whatever we want regardless how it is received by others/God? Should we only do what is socially, religiously, and/or culturally acceptable? Should we do whatever we want as long as it doesn't hurt others? I would love for you to share your views on the purpose of life and why you hold them. Well, ultimately the sole purpose of biological life, is to reproduce more life. That is what we are engineered to do. Now, when you add in the conciousness (with the ability to reason and think logically) as well spiritual factors - things can become rather complicated for many people. I personally do not subscribe to any organized religions, but this does not mean that I am not spiritually aware of the possibility of a deeper meaning - it just means I don't believe in having to perform certain defined actions (either physical or mental) in order to feel closer to a god. My personal belief is that the bible is a great book with alot of humanist teachings which make it worthy of being one of the better moral guidance books for alot of things we should never do to each other (murder, rape, steal etc). Beyond those particular teachings, I personally don't find any other value in it. With so many people on this earth, and so many different philosophies to ponder: I think that it is up to the indivdual to find what works for their own purpose in life. For myself, I find great purpose in life, by experiencing everything that doesn't violate my personal moral and ethical boundaries. I believe each person has those defined in various ways that suits their being, and I am completely able minded to accept that everyone has the freewill set their own boundaries. I have never not done things because I was worried that others may disapprove or that I fear some sort of god that will bring a vengence down upon me for not following some exacting guidelines. I believe the purpose of life is to experience it, and not to live in fear of the judgement of others to hinder that. I live my life each day with a very clear purpose: If today was to be my last day on earth, would I feel regret for the things I was to lazy,afraid, or whatever, to do? My answer each night is: No. If tomorrow were to be my last day, I have experienced everything (within the timeframe and resources given to me) that I've wanted to experience in this life. At the end of the day, this purpose, which I have defined for my own existence, leaves me with a great sense of peace, and no regrets. Link to post Share on other sites
alphamale Posted September 19, 2009 Share Posted September 19, 2009 procreation? Link to post Share on other sites
Author always_searching Posted September 19, 2009 Author Share Posted September 19, 2009 procreation? Alphamale, do you really think the sole purpose of life is having lots of children? LOL, or are you referring to sex as "recreation"? Link to post Share on other sites
Author always_searching Posted September 19, 2009 Author Share Posted September 19, 2009 Blackfrost-- Thank you so much for you well thought-out post. I do wonder, though: when you say you don't want to regret anything and that you want to experience everything, does that mean you do not give any consideration to how those experiences might affect others? For example, if you really wanted to have a relationship with someone, but that person was taken: would you go for it regardless? In other words, do you not worry about the universal moral implications of your actions? I recall that you mentioned earlier in your post that it is the individual that dictates morality, so am I to assume you're a relativist/subjectivist? If so, do you really not think that there are any moral absolutes beyond your own? Link to post Share on other sites
Author always_searching Posted September 19, 2009 Author Share Posted September 19, 2009 The purpose of life is whatever you want to make it. Some would say that my purpose is to contribute to society in some way. That's all BS. I don't owe the world any of my talents & gifts. I have every right to suppress the talents God has given me and never use them to help others. Hmmm...well, regardless as to whether one has the right to suppress his/her talents, don't you think one ought to help others if he/she has a talent that is somehow useful to those other people? So, for example, oughtn't a doctor help an injured person, or a teacher educate? Link to post Share on other sites
alphamale Posted September 19, 2009 Share Posted September 19, 2009 Alphamale, do you really think the sole purpose of life is having lots of children? LOL, or are you referring to sex as "recreation"? although i don't have any kids i do believe the ultimate purpose in life is to keep the human race going Link to post Share on other sites
Blackfrost Posted September 20, 2009 Share Posted September 20, 2009 Blackfrost-- Thank you so much for you well thought-out post. I do wonder, though: when you say you don't want to regret anything and that you want to experience everything, does that mean you do not give any consideration to how those experiences might affect others? For example, if you really wanted to have a relationship with someone, but that person was taken: would you go for it regardless? In other words, do you not worry about the universal moral implications of your actions? I recall that you mentioned earlier in your post that it is the individual that dictates morality, so am I to assume you're a relativist/subjectivist? If so, do you really not think that there are any moral absolutes beyond your own? Hello always searching: Yes, there are those who have been affected by my decisions in life, but it has to be considered and weighed by the person making the choices, as to what end are they affected, and whether or not that has any bearing on the person making the choice. Those who have not liked the fact that I have chosen to do certain things that may violate their own moral codes will judge me as they wish to, but to what end (or reason) am I responsible to those people? If I want to live in their society, then yes, I must subscribe and uphold some of those necessary beliefs or it is on me to suffer the laws of their society. BTW - I am not a strong moral relativist by nature but tend more closely towards value pluralism. In my core being, I do believe there is a point where vital human needs should not be violated. If it was like the example you provided, where someone might already be in a relationship, and would I still choose to pursue them: that would depend entirely on the situation and whether I felt as though I was violating something within myself by such an action. I am very conciously aware of the things I do that I can live with, and the things that have done that have caused damage to my spirit. I am not innocent in the choices that I make, and I do hold myself accountable for my mistakes. Where I differ from relativism, is that I do internalize that there are implications that come from the laws of the society in which you live, and if you wish to remain unpunished in that society, then yes, it is necessary to uphold those laws. It's a very deep discussion to argue the existence of moral absolutes. Some people would argue that there are none - or - only the ones that the ruling power in society (in whatever time period) decided were moral absolutes that were necessary at that time. History has shown throughout it, that there have been numerous fundamental shifts in what it considered moral at the time. Yes, even I am sometimes shocked at some of the things that society either currently or past deemed acceptable. Why? because I am not without my own beliefs of what is or is not a limit on behavior. It is these differences within our species (everyones choices) that continue to instigate conflict amongst ourselves. This is what differentiates us from being an entirely herd based species. If I so choose to stand beside others to right something which we feel is wrong, then that is a matter of choice and freewill - not because there is a universal moral absolute that must be upheld. Upheld to who? To god? That's a very different discussion, and it varies across personal interpretation of what god means. This is a very interesting discussion, and an even more interesting sight to have it on Link to post Share on other sites
Eve Posted September 20, 2009 Share Posted September 20, 2009 The purpose of life? Aside from caring for my crops on 'Farmville' I try and remain connected to the greater whole by living in syncrony with others and the universe. For me, it is more a question about developing my senses (which I see as being innate and God given) and not being constrained by them. I use acts of worship of God to open my senses and nowadays they seem to be pretty open. At first this seemed a little overwhelming until I came to the reckoning that its not all about me and my needs. I like being close to God and others so this is important to me. It seems to have rubbed off on the kids because they are highly intuitive and are able to make good solid decisions and they are excellent friends to have. Overall, I think the purpose of life is to be happy and enjoy the earth. I try and abide by the ten commandments because they make sense to me. I do believe Christ died for me and I have a healthy prayer life above all else. My life seems to be one of asking God questions and the essence of these questions then coming to fruition throughout the bad times and good. Life is good! I do not feel constrained by my faith. Take care, Eve xx Link to post Share on other sites
OpenBook Posted September 20, 2009 Share Posted September 20, 2009 The purpose of life is to be kind and help others. And milk every little (and big) enjoyment out of it that you can!!! We're only here for a very short time. Might as well make the most of it. Link to post Share on other sites
knaveman Posted September 20, 2009 Share Posted September 20, 2009 Does there need to be a purpose? Isn't living enough of a purpose? Link to post Share on other sites
FleshNBones Posted September 20, 2009 Share Posted September 20, 2009 People were created for three reasons. 1. To know God 2. To love God 3. To serve God Link to post Share on other sites
Trialbyfire Posted September 20, 2009 Share Posted September 20, 2009 IMO, there is no purpose to life beyond what each individual gives it. I do think it important that people set up their own code of honour, so they have some form of morality to live by. We're an accident of birth, where sperm violated egg... As someone who's experienced forms of both Protestant and Catholic sects, I've learned to reject organized religion vehemently, to the point of moving from agnostic, to being a true unbeliever. Link to post Share on other sites
wuggle Posted September 20, 2009 Share Posted September 20, 2009 Think I'm with blackfrost on most of his points, especially 'moral absoloutes'. But, maybe whilst the purpose of life generally is solely reproduction (for less 'advanced' species), the passing on of genes, once a species reaches the level of complexity and social organisation that we (humans) have, maybe we as a species transcend or enhance this. Maybe species like ours also attempt to 'evolve' knowledge and wisdom. As well as passing on genes from one generation to the next, we also pass on knowledge, which gets honed and altered through the generations. If the aim of evolution per se is to adapt life to the environment, what are we as a species trying to do, adapt knowledge to the environment, or adapt the environment to our knowledge?? I see a point in the future, a natural progression for human life, where we have all the knowledge we need to have true mastery of the environment and all elements of it. So as such maybe the purpose of our existence is to advance our entire species to be the make believe 'gods' that our earlier generations so childishly revered. Link to post Share on other sites
Author always_searching Posted September 20, 2009 Author Share Posted September 20, 2009 As someone who's experienced forms of both Protestant and Catholic sects, I've learned to reject organized religion vehemently, to the point of moving from agnostic, to being a true unbeliever. I'm very sorry to hear that, Trialbyfire. I assume that you had a particular bad experience with religion, or is it just not intellectually satisfying to you? I too was agnostic, for a number of years. Causal and ontological proofs helped me to become a monotheist; until, one day years later, I finally had a faith experience that led me to Christianity. I have always believed that the Catholic church is the original church established by Jesus through his apostle Peter. So, I knew if I were ever to become Christian that I would be Catholic. So, you went in the other direction--agnostic to atheist? May I inquire as to what changed your mind? I mean, there must have been an intellectual and/or spiritual progression from theist to agnostic to atheist--may I ask what that progression consisted of? Link to post Share on other sites
Tony Posted September 21, 2009 Senior Moderators Share Posted September 21, 2009 Please kindly read the first post in this thread and speak to the topic. It is rather broad and some of the posts above are borderline. If you want to get into deeply religious discussions about God, etc., rather than speak directly to the meaning of life and other similar questions in the original post, then please start your own thread. Thank you! Link to post Share on other sites
Eve Posted September 21, 2009 Share Posted September 21, 2009 As the creator of the thread, I certainly don't mind if people start religious discussion, as both God and religion can play a deep role in what people construe as being "the purpose of life." Actually, as many of the comments relating to God (at least in a positive sense) were started by me: I rather welcome such discussion! Of course, if you consider it straying from the topic--even if it is within my thread and welcomed by me, then I'll limit my discussion/responses. As I cannot seperate faith and the purpose of life (and consider those who do pretty dodgy) I thought I had to now stay away from this thread so as not to upset anyone. Oh well, dodge on. Take care, Eve xx Link to post Share on other sites
Author always_searching Posted September 21, 2009 Author Share Posted September 21, 2009 As I cannot seperate faith and the purpose of life (and consider those who do pretty dodgy) I thought I had to now stay away from this thread so as not to upset anyone. Oh well, dodge on. Take care, Eve xx I hear you, Eve. It's sad that I created the thread with the expectation that faith/religion may come into play regarding the purpose of life, yet half of the discussion was removed. Oh, well. The thread can dodge on without my input. Link to post Share on other sites
marlena Posted September 21, 2009 Share Posted September 21, 2009 What is the purpose of life? For some it is love, fame, glory, power, creativity, money, family etc..or a combination of many things. Personally, I don't think there is a purpose to life other than just plain living it. We simply sprouted on this planet like wild flowers in a meadow and all we can do is enjoy it when it is good to us and learn to roll with the punches when it is not. Then it's lights out and oblivion. Shakespeare says it much better. "Out, out, brief candle! Life's but a walking shadow, a poor player that struts and frets his hour upon the stage and then is heard no more: it is a tale told by an idiot, full of sound and fury, signifying nothing." Link to post Share on other sites
Thaddeus Posted September 21, 2009 Share Posted September 21, 2009 What is the purpose of life? For some it is love, fame, glory, power, creativity, money, family etc..or a combination of many things. Personally, I don't think there is a purpose to life other than just plain living it. We simply sprouted on this planet like wild flowers in a meadow and all we can do is enjoy it when it is good to us and learn to roll with the punches when it is not. Then it's lights out and oblivion. Shakespeare says it much better. "Out, out, brief candle! Life's but a walking shadow, a poor player that struts and frets his hour upon the stage and then is heard no more: it is a tale told by an idiot, full of sound and fury, signifying nothing." Marlena's got it. Our purpose is what we make it. No more. No less. Link to post Share on other sites
marlena Posted September 21, 2009 Share Posted September 21, 2009 Marlena's got it. Our purpose is what we make it. No more. No less. Somehow I knew that you would agree. Link to post Share on other sites
SierraMarie Posted September 29, 2009 Share Posted September 29, 2009 I'm Catholic and tend to believe that we are supposed to live good, moral and decent lives (which, of course, indicates the existence of objective values) in order to fulfill our end viz. to become one with God/achieve eternal happiness. In order to do this, tradition seems to indicate a deprivation of body and a sole interest regarding our spirituality. That being said, there are times I wonder why--since we are not merely spiritual, but composite beings--there is so much focus on the spiritual aspect, while our bodily needs i.e. enjoying food, sex, etc. are totally ignored, or at least severely hindered. So, I would love to hear what you guys think! Should life be totally focused on the spirit, body, or some combination of the two? Do you think we should do whatever we want regardless how it is received by others/God? Should we only do what is socially, religiously, and/or culturally acceptable? Should we do whatever we want as long as it doesn't hurt others? I would love for you to share your views on the purpose of life and why you hold them. Hi always_searching I'm sorry I cannot give you an answer I just wanted to say that I'm in the same boat as you are. I've been thinking about this a lot lately. I, too, wonder what is the point? I know we are supposed to love and serve God, but then what is the point of living if you can't enjoy other things in life? I know exactly where you're coming from. And honestly, I don't know. I think that the whole thing is subjective. I've been a Christian for 5 years and I know at the beginning I used to live my life the way I always did it was just better because I had God. But lately I feel like I should have more of a responsibility to do more things for God and stop being so selfish. But I really don't want to. I think it's a matter of where you're at in your walk with God and what he asks of you. If you feel convicted to do something, you should do it. But then there comes the problem of knowing exactly what God wants you to do. Anyway, as you can see I'm confused, but I hope I helped a little bit. Link to post Share on other sites
Hestia Posted October 15, 2009 Share Posted October 15, 2009 This is something I've been wondering myself for some time now. I was raised as a catholic but I identify myself better with buddhism beliefs. So I try hard to show kindness and forgiveness even when I'm dealing with something that (in ordinary terms) shouldnt be forgiven. And I've noticed that leads to abuse. People arent nice to me back. They simply take advantage of my kindness. I dislike how life seems to be all about competition. Thats what animals do. I want to be better than that. I wish the purpose of life was something greater or more idealistic than competition/reproduction/selfishness, but frankly I dont think it is. "Our purpose is what we make it. No more. No less.". I wish that was true. I'm not an island, I have to interact with people whose purpose of life is selfishness. It's too tiring to be the only one on the other side. Link to post Share on other sites
RA1 Posted October 18, 2009 Share Posted October 18, 2009 "What is the purpose of life?" The question can be answered at different levels. Regarding my chosen purpose, which expresses my will to live, I would say it is to be "happy"; where "happiness" is to be interpreted in a non-vacuous way, i.e. it is not about pleasure seeking but about the satisfaction that comes from having a rich variety of experiences (work, play, family life, travel, culture,...) and always living within my own strong, carefully thought-out ethical framework. To answer the question on a higher level, it is empirical fact that the purpose of life is to propagate genes (DNA). Taking the survival of DNA to be the purpose of life explains all the diversity of life forms that we see and all their complicated interactions. If one wants to answer the question on an even higher level, I would say from observation that the universe operates just as one would expect if there is ultimately no purpose and no design. Link to post Share on other sites
Quinch Posted October 18, 2009 Share Posted October 18, 2009 I don't believe the purpose of existance is to serve any god because I'm an atheist and any god who creates humans only to serve himself/herself is both vain and selfish. Neither do I think it is soley to procreate. Having children who will in turn have children who will in turn have children who will in turn have children who will in turn have children who will in turn have children who will in turn have children ad infinitum. What's the point of that???? I like to think that the purpose, if there is a purpose, is to leave the world a better place than it was when you arrived. Link to post Share on other sites
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