The Purpose of Life: Belief vs. Skepticism
Throughout human history, the question of the purpose of life has been a central theme in philosophy and religions. From different points of view, people have found various answers to this existential question. However, as we explore life from different perspectives, the core of the issue remains unresolved. This article will delve into the belief-based and skepticism-based views on the purpose of life, examining the merits and drawbacks of each stance.
Belief in a Hereafter: The Religious Perspective
For many followers of Jesus Christ, the purpose of life is closely tied to the belief in a hereafter. Arguments like “if you were a follower of Jesus you would know the answers” and “God created us to serve Him on Earth so that if we do, we will serve Him for all eternity in the new Earth after Judgment Day” are presented. This perspective holds that the ultimate meaning and purpose of life lie in serving God in our current life and reaping eternal rewards in the afterlife.
However, not everyone shares this belief. Some may argue, as illustrated by the statement 'The purpose of life is just to satisfy its needs.' They maintain that the fundamental purpose of human existence is to fulfill the necessities of life and contribute to the well-being of one another. This view is supported by the idea that 'humans exist on Earth because they have continued to satisfy the needs of those that are living' and that 'the meaning of life is found in all those things that are interesting while we are alive.'
The Meaning of Life Without Divine Intervention
From a secular perspective, the concept of a hereafter is not required to find meaning in life. The idea that 'there is no absolute purpose of life' is a valid stance. In a universe that is often regarded as indifferent and absurd, humans can create their own meaningful purposes based on their daily lives and actions. This can involve doing good, being kind, humble, and loving others. As the quote 'Without expectation of reward or punishment just do some good. Be kind, be humble, love others, always do your best, speak out, and fight against evil behavior. That’s enough' suggests, the inherent worth of life lies in the efforts made for others and the world.
The Nature of Faith and Belief
Another crucial aspect to consider is the nature of faith and belief. Beliefs such as the existence of gods, an afterlife, or the soul can vary among individuals. It is not accurate to say that all atheists have no belief in an afterlife or souls. Atheism, by definition, is the lack of belief in gods and does not necessarily negate the existence of the soul or an afterlife. People can hold different views on these matters, leading to diverse interpretations of the purpose of life.
Furthermore, it is fallacious to suggest that one should try to believe in something, merely to provide a sense of purpose. This would be a hollow and artificial construct. As one person succinctly put it, 'Same as yours - to procreate and make the world a better place for our species survival then we die. That’s it get over it.' Finding purpose in life should come from genuine experiences and personal convictions, rather than forcing oneself to believe in something that does not resonate with their core values or understanding of the world.
Conclusion
The purpose of life is a deeply personal and philosophical question that can be approached from many angles. Whether one finds meaning in religious beliefs, in fulfilling the needs of others, or in creating their own sense of purpose, the core of the question remains the same. It is a quest for understanding and fulfillment that differs from individual to individual. What matters most is that one's actions and beliefs align with their values and contribute positively to the world around them.
Key takeaways from this discussion include the importance of considering diverse perspectives, the potential benefits of creating one's own purpose, and the fallacy of forcing beliefs that do not resonate with an individual.