Meaning of Life

[ruaidhri]

What in a relatively short statement is the true meaning of life?

We all are born, live and die. Children continue our existence from generation to generation. Following death, all but a few of us are soon forgotten.

Is our universe merely a bubble in the sea of bubbles that may exist within the 11th dimension? Is death merely movement from one universe to another? Do we truly cease to exist when we die?

From early adulthood on I have considered myself agnostic not knowing or caring if there were a God. Now, I’ve decided to be a Theist believing that there is a God but that following creation of the big bang my God stood back and let physics and nature create its magic. Perhaps this God of mine could be the mysterious 11th dimension as many believe it was in fact responsible for the big bang that gave birth to our universe.

When we’re young we feel so immortal, so invulnerable. We’re aware, but not obsessed, that death lurks around every corner. Yet, natural death, at the culmination of a long life, is so far away we don’t pay it that much attention. Then, if we’re lucky, we actually live that long life and see that natural death is no longer so far in the future. So, do we suddenly become believers? That’s what happened to a lot of the baby boomers that once so confidently declared that God was dead in the 1960’s.

What is the meaning of life? Are we here for a purpose or just by chance? Should we strive to be good in hopes of a reward in the afterlife? Following death who rests on a higher plain, Pope John Paul II, Gandhi or Hitler? Does it make any difference at all if we’re Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Hindu, Buddhist, Agnostic Atheist, or any other religion? Do our deeds follow us into death?

Me? My opinion? I don’t care if being good or bad makes a difference. I try to be good and kind and generous because it makes me feel good. I’ve never regretted being kind but I’ve certainly had deep regrets when I was mean. Haven’t you? My solution to the meaning of life is simple. Live it, don’t worry about it and at the end be happy about how you’ll be remembered even if it is for but a short time.

[Idlethought]

The natural purpose of living is to pass on your genes to the next generation. Otherwise, there is no meaning of life except to just live it and learn. Thassall

[Daisuke]

42 - there is no other answer...

[Scott]

From a philosophical perspective - enjoy it. Carpe diem. Etc. I'm a bit of a hedonist, but whatever.

From a genetic perspective - have sex as often as possible with as many people as possible to pass on your genes.

[Idlethought]

i like number 2

[ruaidhri]

Obviously, Idelthought is correct in his statement that the preservation of the species dictates that the primary purpose of life is to procreate. But, humans are supposedly intelligent creatures blessed with the ability to reason. We can protect or harm our species independent of our desire or ability to have babies. That does make us unique.

It would be a sad commentary to agree that all people without children have no meaning to their lives. Humans are far more complex than that. In fact, our ability to raise children largely depends upon the community made up of many people themselves childless. Perhaps, the youth are the legacy of all the people because ultimately it is to their hands that we leave the world. The community, not only the individual, then becomes the parent.

Society itself becomes responsible for the proper care, education and raising of future generations. Society protects the youth from harm sometimes even from their own biological parents. Society, more than the individual, perpetuates itself.

This brings mores, religions and governments into focus because they establish and guide the path we take in propagating our society’s survival. It is no longer solely important how we live our own lives. We are ever more closely tied to the community in how our actions affect others.

The meaning of life must include our connection to and dependence on other human beings.

[Idlethought]

It would be a sad commentary to agree that all people without children have no meaning to their lives. Humans are far more complex than that. In fact, our ability to raise children largely depends upon the community made up of many people themselves childless. Perhaps, the youth are the legacy of all the people because ultimately it is to their hands that we leave the world. The community, not only the individual, then becomes the parent.


But I didnt say that thats the meaning of life. I'm saying the biological purpose of life is to pass on your genes, to propogate the species, to make sure that your attributes carry on to the next generation.

Why must the meaning of life include connections to other human beings? what about hermits? What im sayin here is the meaning of life is to just live it and learn. Just BE. That encompasses everything. Just be.

[Jay]

Meaning of life is to find a mundane job that will tide you over from day to day and provide a living, meanwhile you raise a bunch of kids so they can do the same basic things as you.

Makes you wonder why we even bother to procreate, doesn't it?

[Mittens]

The meaning of life is to fail and to fail miserably.

[ruaidhri]

Interesting comments. Idlethought, Jay and Nalyubuites are each correct. There really is no wrong answer because the meaning of life can be different for each person. Personally, I take the wider view and believe that society, not the individual, better defines the meaning of life.

True, not everyone is a member of society. There are those that live on the fringes or even outside of the community. Their existence does not alter society’s role in defining what’s important in our lives. The fact that they choose not to participate only supports society’s role in most everyone else’s lives.

[cuibono]

I wrote this a few years ago while thinking about the topic. It's a shame that ruaidhri is gone.

I think the point of life is experience..."pathos" if you will. We live in order to feel, to know, to be. There's a Celtic belief that since God is unity and perfection, we cannot (re)join with Him (Her, in this world-view, I think) until we, too, are perfect. And we will not be perfect until we have experienced all there is to experience. So they believe in a limited reincarnation, and life is the process by which we acquaint ourselves with creation and perfect ourselves in effort to reach God and rejoin with Him/Her. I think there is some truth in that. I wonder also if maybe our lives are Purgatory. There's Hell below and Heaven above, so it might break the trinity for there to be a Purgatory to the side AND our material lives...so maybe we are living Purgatory now. Maybe not. But fundamentally, I believe the purpose of life is to experience, and ultimately, to see with open eyes the grandeur that underlies the world, the elegant beauty of its contructions and all of its creation. Life is for appreciating beauty and for loving and for being happy, and these are not contradictory because once one reaches the level of understanding that we are meant to achieve, they become the same thing, all unified in purpose and experience. We see the form of beauty and the form of happiness and the form of love and perhaps even the form of understanding, and we see that they are one, and they are omnipresent. And maybe that's God, or as much of God as human perception, even in an elevated state, can achieve. I don't know. But that is why we live: to see this as only we can, to experience it and feel it and participate in it.

And this is from a conversation I had a little later on the same topic. (I'm "T", obviously.)

M: So why do we need experience?
T: Without experience, we are nothing but all the same...bland, dull...no point to our creation. With experience, we fulfill our creation.
M: What were we meant to be?
T: Creatures of understanding. and appreciation. and love. and perhaps a thousand other things. But we cannot accomplish that without experiencing the life we were given.
M: What about wasted lives?
T: They did not experience as they should have: they let the experiences pass them by. To experience something is to take an active part in it, not simply to be present at its happening.
M: Why didn't they take part in it?
T: Free will. Life is a choice, or it would not be life.
M: Is it?
T: It must be. Otherwise, creation is without a point.
M: Or is your whole life--and your soul--shaped by your circumstances?
T: If we are entirely shaped by circumstance, then we are no better off than our computers or a somewhat advanced logic program. And that does not hold. We have an innate ability to think ourselves into different people, to choose not to be or to be what we will, and through the thinking to choose our own course. A creation without free-will is illogical because a completely controlled creation brings no glory to the creator. A hand-puppet that praises the puppeteer is farcical.

[more cheerios]

42 - there is no other answer...
Wrong.
42 is the meaning of Life, the Universe and EVERYTHING.
If we were to follow the great path of Douglas Adams, the meaning of life would only be 14. ;)

[psychoflex]

What in a relatively short statement is the true meaning of life?

meaning of life=waiting for death
what happens between your birth and death is totally irrelevant

[freeradicals]

The meaning of life is to live it. case closed.

[more cheerios]

meaning of life=waiting for death
what happens between your birth and death is totally irrelevant
Irrelevant to the final outcome, perhaps.
But it's not irrelevant to the people around you.

[Citizen]

The meaning of life? Well, I suppose there is one. More than one, actually. Everyone has their own meaning to their own life. The meaning of your life is whatever it is that you do with it, or believe in. True, there may be something after life, but it is just that, AFTER life. So I guess, for me, the meaning of life had nothing to do with what happens afterwards. It may for some people though. If you think life adds up to nothing, so be it. If you think grander things are to come, well OK then.

It's really very relative.

[Nekesu]

Well you can't have death without Life. I think that the meaning of life is to make an impression on one of more people. Some people make discoveries to help better man-kind and by doing that they become immortal through their findings. So get out there and discover something, or influence someone to discover something so you could feel good knowing that you help that person out.

[Snake eyeS]

The meaning of life for me is:

To make myself feel good. and seeing as somehow i feel good when im good to others so in turn are helping them with their meaning of life, im pretty sure that thats one of our meanings of life. to do good and be nice, otherwise why would it be so rewarding? it also explains my personal theory of life (not reason)
I dont think by bieng nice and kind will buy me some sort of pass to another world, the afterlife so to speak.

I think we are all gods, i think we have already reached our hight with evolution and are just plain bored.. so we are playing this game called earth. you set yourself on this earth with certain goals, which you will completely forget ones you are born, the point is to see if you can get yourself to reach those goals in a set amount of time by the use of intrests, you want to become a teacher in this game? you have set yourself some intrests in your genes which make you want to persue teaching. you can keep playing this game over and over again if you like. for me this explains quite a few things, why everything in the universe is finetuned to our needs, why we are here in the first place(i dont think we are a glitch) but i also realise that we cannot change this world from the outside, the gamerules are set and bound.. we can only change it from within, so the game keeps changing and keeps it intresting for us gods. this game will also selfdestruct itself because we are gods and we are growing towards bieng them, killing and destroying everything in our path. so give or take a few 10000 years and we will either have 1 complex evolved game or we have killed the game by cheating. but what is beyond this game i dont know, supposbly its nothing better then this life otherwise i woudnt be playing this game. make sense?

with that theory in mind i could muster up some meanings of life but they are nothing more then some shallow points like entertaining ourself etc.

[Scarletdeath]

The reason for humans to exist is merely to reproduce. Why do you think our brain tells us that it feels so good during sex? Why do you think LUST conquers all else in our mind?(I'm refering to the general population) Why do you think during sex, our we're impervious to all pain just for the moment of orgasm? Why do you think we feel lonely without another significant other? Not for comfort, it'll eventually lead to sex whichever reason you give.

The greed for money/belongings is so that one could show off to the opposite sex and get laid. The reputation you obtain is also for this purpose.

One thing that I lust for which isn't related to sex is knowledge. But what use is it? We'll die anyway eventually.

Actually now that I think about it, maybe I want all the knowledge not to satisfy my curiosity, but to impress the opposite sex.

If there is another reason to explain why humans exist, that's to become some sort of parasite to this planet. Draining all sources and destroying this planet bit by bit.

The 7 sins for example, we're BORN with it. Bad influence will only trigger these properties to activate itself in us, making us "evil". Those who think they're all pure and good, aren't what they say they are.

In other words, humans are worthless, helpless beings. They don't even deserve to live.

And yet, even if you agree with this, you still don't wanna die. Hell, I don't wanna die. Thats another "sin" in us that makes the call. There's no such thing as repenting, as what's done, is done. If you took another life, what, say you're sorry and help others till you die?

Then again this is just my own opinion. Nothing personal. And no, I'm not a satanist of any sort. Just a believer of evolution.

[ruaidhri]

Hmmm, interesting! I enjoy each reader's individual perspective of what life means to them. Quite literally, there is no incorrect answer to the question posed by this thread: What is the meaning of life?

Many believe that we are born to have sex, make babies and die. That is not an incorrect assessment; it’s just incomplete. From the moment of our birth, we require nurturing, education and structure if we are to prosper. Most of us would have difficulty surviving and passing on our seed if we were not a part of a community. We are social creatures and because of our curiosity and quest for knowledge we are always seeking answers. Moreover, death does not necessarily end our contribution to the living. With civilization it is the accomplishments of the past that lead to breakthroughs of the future.

We are indeed born to experience and to react as cuibono explained. Life does offer many opportunities through which we have choices. It is this free will and our individual choices that defines who we are and how we are perceived by others. Because we are all part of a greater community our choices also impact others and influence their choices and their decisions.

Nekesu quite correctly charges us with the responsibility to make a contribution to humanity either directly through our own individual discoveries or indirectly through facilitating opportunities for others to make meaningful advancements to society. This somewhat parallels my own concept of the meaning of life in that we are not alone and that it is society, not the individual, that perpetuates the opportunity to be born, survive, propagate, make contributions and to ultimately, through our death, create opportunities for others to carry on our work.

Snake Eyes, yes, I agree. Being kind is far more satisfying than being cruel. It does make you feel good and that’s what a large part of life is about, feeling good. That is my perspective on how to interact with other people. I see no benefit it hurting others and conversely I believe being kind makes you feel good about yourself, which gets us back to Snake Eyes original premise that a large part of life is about feeling good.

Scarletdeath, I can understand how you believe what you say you believe. Perhaps, at some later point in your life you will see life differently. I would have been far more likely to totally agree with you 40 years ago than I am today. I am very happy with my wife of 34 years. I no longer have to seek love; it’s standing right next to me.

Citizen hit the nail directly on the head, there is more than one meaning or purpose of life. It is very individual. It does have to do with what you do with the opportunities presented. The meaning of life is, as Citizen wrote, about life, not what follows.

I had intended to leave OP9 but, as always, I left the door open to change my mind. One great lesson I have learned throughout my life is that I often make mistakes. Maybe that also is part of the meaning of life, to learn from ones mistakes. Anyway, I am correcting the mistake of my leaving OP9 and will continue posting as the urge compels me.

Thank you for showing me that serious, contemplative comments are alive and prospering on OP9.

[KujiInRetsu]

I may perhaps not know so much about the meaning of life, but I have noted that at the root of everything, there are two diametrically opposed elements. Not good and evil, hot and cold, light and dark-- not anything else you can think of except Order and Chaos, or Rationality and Irrationality to be a little more specific. Order rose out of Chaos in the beginning, and Chaos rose from the Void.

Think about it this way: The Big Bang -> Ridiculous amounts of matter and energy shot in random amounts in random directions (chaos) -> Random amounts of matter and energy begin to settle into stars and planets (order out of chaos) -> Gravity takes hold and everything settles nicely into place (order)

Now, the caveat to this:

Life (chaos out of order?). But at the same time: societies and civilization (order out of chaos?).

Also, looking at atomic theory, it states that electrons will always seek the lowest energy level, going from chaotic to orderly in that they get rid of energy (an agitating agent) to settle into a lower energy state. Electrons accomplish this in various ways, methods which I'm not sure I quite remember at 1 AM.

[ruaidhri]

KujiInRetsu, fascinating comments. Yes, I follow where you’re going. Chaos does create order and chaos does evolve from order. Perhaps, what you are describing is evolution itself. The natural progression of everything in the universe. You have expanded the social concept of “why am I here” to the more scientific “how am I here”.

I like what you have introduced into this discussion.

[delen]

I may perhaps not know so much about the meaning of life, but I have noted that at the root of everything, there are two diametrically opposed elements. Not good and evil, hot and cold, light and dark-- not anything else you can think of except Order and Chaos, or Rationality and Irrationality to be a little more specific. Order rose out of Chaos in the beginning, and Chaos rose from the Void.

Think about it this way: The Big Bang -> Ridiculous amounts of matter and energy shot in random amounts in random directions (chaos) -> Random amounts of matter and energy begin to settle into stars and planets (order out of chaos) -> Gravity takes hold and everything settles nicely into place (order)

Now, the caveat to this:

Life (chaos out of order?). But at the same time: societies and civilization (order out of chaos?).

Also, looking at atomic theory, it states that electrons will always seek the lowest energy level, going from chaotic to orderly in that they get rid of energy (an agitating agent) to settle into a lower energy state. Electrons accomplish this in various ways, methods which I'm not sure I quite remember at 1 AM.

Chaos looked upon at such a large level as the universe will always have small pockets that seems like "order" because you are looking at such a small part of it. If you randomly drop millions of grains of sand on the ground and then look for small pockets where patterns have formed you will find them. It would be highly improbable not to.

[delen]

As for the true meaning of life. There is none. Life has only the meaning you put into it.
It's like asking an artist with a blank canvas to draw the 'true' picture that belongs on it. :)

[Megaman]

Well, it's true. The meaning of life is to pass on your genes. Your intelligence and higher consciousness is what makes that a lot easier. What you do with the rest of the time not having sex, well, that's up to you. (Whoa, MGS2 flashback...)

...I could be wrong though. 14 sounds nice. :P

[Masa the Masta]

Not entirely..

When an orgasm is felt, what happens after? We've successfully passed our genes into another human being, or at least fooled our bodies that we have (and our genes are currently drowning in a toilet or dying in a tissue paper..)...

Why do we exist then?

When some people have either lost their testicles or their ability to reproduce, what's their function then?

People still find reasons to live. It's whether or not you open your eyes to the possibilities.

Some people's reason to live was to lead. Others to become immortalized through their actions like writing, acting, DOING (Martin Luther King Jr. is still remembered.)

Whatever the case, I've noticed that the farther a person is from the "teenage years" of their life, the less "sex" becomes the meaning to life. Life begins to be less what Biology tells them, and more what they have presented in front of them..and they make whatever they can of it.

[Tensei]

I'm not quite sure why people make it so complicated. If a purpose is not given, you make one. The meaning of life is probably to do with it as you please. You don't have to enjoy it, you dont have to hate it, you dont even have to live it. There's no proper meaning, reality is subjective. It is whatever you want it to be, nothing more and nothing less.

[Masa the Masta]

I'm not quite sure why people make it so complicated. If a purpose is not given, you make one. The meaning of life is probably to do with it as you please. You don't have to enjoy it, you dont have to hate it, you dont even have to live it. There's no proper meaning, reality is subjective. It is whatever you want it to be, nothing more and nothing less.

Here here, I wanted to touch on that too. Thanks. :watson:

[Megaman]

[Insert stupid comment here] (Between the sex of course) :P

[ShadowDeth]

Well this thread has been an ostentatious display. It's like listening to two 12 year olds discussing philosophy.

That's what I love about message boards. Everyone believes they are qualified to analyze the universe whenever these conversations come up, and everyone believes they have the answer. You get the realist who claims it's to pass on genetics, you get the artsy [alternate lifestyle preference] who thinks life is a flower and you have to smell it, the guy who undoubtedly has an anime character in his profile telling you something deep and profound like "there is no meaning to life" and so forth.

I'm pretty sure if there was a way to identify the inherent meaning of human life someone using a message board wouldn't know it, but that's just me.

I'm not quite sure why people make it so complicated. If a purpose is not given, you make one. The meaning of life is probably to do with it as you please. You don't have to enjoy it, you dont have to hate it, you dont even have to live it. There's no proper meaning, reality is subjective. It is whatever you want it to be, nothing more and nothing less.

Because just like all forms of art, the more the user invests into it, the more they feel like they belong to an exclusive club that only *they* get.

[Tensei]

What's even funnier is when you find an elitest who tries to make himself look better by bashing the opinions of others when he has no qualifications to show for it either.

Speculation is alot different than knowing. Want to judge a book by it's cover? I see your avatar, 2 can play at that game. What makes your opinion even more ridiculous is that you're telling me all this with an the avatar of a fad whore, who looks as though he'd have more success selling drugs or magazines door-to-door, than comprehending any logical fallacies in other's opinions on life.

kthxbye

[ShadowDeth]

The only problem with your statement is that it might just be possible that the poster has no wish to "make himself look better". (please explain that part, it's pretty out there) It's pretty juvenile to think that whenever anyone insults another person they have unresolved issues or feelings of insecurity. It's like the whole bully scenario. Maybe he wasn't abused, or neglected. Maybe he's not trying to build up a sense of self worth through fighting other people.

Perhaps he just witnessed annoying behavior and it irritates him? Or better yet - maybe he's just a dick? And qualifications? You don't need to be a master chef to know if food tastes bad.

Now speculation is just that, not knowing. However, when all you present of yourself is information pointing towards ridiculous pretension, then that is all the viewer has to go off of. I don't believe commenting on the ridiculous nature of a conversation necessarily equates you with being an elitist.

One thing you're not doing is taking in all the pieces together. It's one thing to judge someone soley on their avatar, but it's another to do so coupled with their posting habbits. That is something of a logical "fallacy" in itself. It's also ignored that perhaps the poster in question has taken in all available evidence, and drawn conclusions based on them.

Also - "than comprehending any logical fallacies in other's opinions on life."

I forgot one other type of poster who joins these conversations. The one who took a philosophy class in college and believes they have now ascended the mundane world of vocabulary and incorporates words like "fallacy" into their speech. Case in point.

[Tensei]

Ah, I see, so insulting the whole lot of people and trying to explain how it's humorous to see (In a nutshell) them make fools of themselves since no one really knows what they're talking about, was purely stated for no reason? Why do people insult others, then? Please explain me this then. It's also pretty juvenile to post something in the topic, with not even a single hint of contribution to the conversation. But, as I said, explain to me the reasoning for this? Try to find a reason, other than you think this is bullshit, and you just want to let everyone know that you're different. You didn't contribute to the conversation, because you think no one would know the meaning of life. Because you have now seperated yourself from the other, contributing members of this topic, you have now ascended, or rather, tried to, above the others. Thats how this kind of logic works.

I'd also like to point out, that I never said you have insecurity, I said you wanted to make yourself look better. You don't have to be insecure to do that.

A person who witnesses annoying behavior will stay away from it. Or, try to stop it. So either A.) I'm right, or B.) You were not wise enough to know that stating an opinion like this would cause the irritation to grow, also among others too.

Now speculation is just that, not knowing. However, when all you present of yourself is information pointing towards ridiculous pretension, then that is all the viewer has to go off of. I don't believe commenting on the ridiculous nature of a conversation necessarily equates you with being an elitist

Notice how you are the only one who thinks other's opinions are ridiculous? This is because you yourself think you have a better opinion. Furthermore, because you commented so patronizingly, it just proves more that you think you're better than others. Elitist? Ok maybe I jumped to conclusions, but a hardcore egotist, thats more on the money.

One thing you're not doing is taking in all the pieces together. It's one thing to judge someone soley on their avatar, but it's another to do so coupled with their posting habbits. That is something of a logical "fallacy" in itself. It's also ignored that perhaps the poster in question has taken in all available evidence, and drawn conclusions based on them.

You are equally guilty. My posting habits remain the same through and through. Why would you point out that my avatar was an anime character, and ridicule me for saying something so deep? Since your whole post was about mocking, I wouls assume your tone would be to insult. I don't know what you're trying to get at here, but it seems your just fishing for an excuse lol.

I forgot one other type of poster who joins these conversations. The one who took a philosophy class in college and believes they have now ascended the mundane world of vocabulary and incorporates words like "fallacy" into their speech. Case in point.

I haven't been to college, nor did I use the word because of the reason you resented. Fallacy is a word I just happen to know, and just happens to fit the sentance perfectly. Mistake doesn't fit properly, because it's not a mistake, it's simply a problem with an aspect of the opinion. I could go on about how other words dont fit quite as properly, but I'm sure you're already drawing inaccurate conclusions about this post already. I'll leave you to your thoughts.

[Collapse]

My philosophy in life is simply live the life to your advantage even with the others controlling the schemes.

I currently ask myself "What is the meaning of life?" - followed by a vague answer that I also reassure myself - "Well, when you're lying down, either near death from an accident or in the deathbed mortally sick and has no real chance of recovering, speculate how your life went.. was it good that you followed your way? Bad because you let others do their way on you? Or was it neutral because it is all in a balance of life and the outcomes happen because of what you did?". That is one of the parts that for me, the meaning of my life is something I have to experience myself. Can be good or bad depending on how I treat it. Of course, there are those forces you can't control. Taking it day by day with the notion of possibly being the last day it can be for me (hence the fatalism because no one can predict - oh god forbid), I can find the meaning of life.

[ShadowDeth]

Ah, I see, so insulting the whole lot of people and trying to explain how it's humorous to see (In a nutshell) them make fools of themselves since no one really knows what they're talking about, was purely stated for no reason? Why do people insult others, then? Please explain me this then. It's also pretty juvenile to post something in the topic, with not even a single hint of contribution to the conversation. But, as I said, explain to me the reasoning for this? Try to find a reason, other than you think this is bullshit, and you just want to let everyone know that you're different. You didn't contribute to the conversation, because you think no one would know the meaning of life. Because you have now seperated yourself from the other, contributing members of this topic, you have now ascended, or rather, tried to, above the others. Thats how this kind of logic works.



It's not humorous. It's annoying. I said that in my post. Of course I didn't want to participate in the thread, because I didn't. You're very perceptive, coupled with your razor sharp wit should take you very far.

I'd also like to point out, that I never said you have insecurity, I said you wanted to make yourself look better. You don't have to be insecure to do that.


Sure you do. That is pretty much the psychological definition of being insecure, the need to lash out.

A person who witnesses annoying behavior will stay away from it. Or, try to stop it. So either A.) I'm right, or B.) You were not wise enough to know that stating an opinion like this would cause the irritation to grow, also among others too.

Or C) Knowing all too well stating an unpopular opinion in an abrasive manner wouldn't cause any improvement of my self image, I went ahead and posted it. What happened to "trying to make myself look better"? The boat sail on that idea?

It seems to me like the whole basis for your opinion has just been broken down completely, but we can continue.


Notice how you are the only one who thinks other's opinions are ridiculous? This is because you yourself think you have a better opinion. Furthermore, because you commented so patronizingly, it just proves more that you think you're better than others. Elitist? Ok maybe I jumped to conclusions, but a hardcore egotist, thats more on the money.

Or rather, I feel secure in my beliefs that I don't have to essentially intellectually "masturbate" on a thread that has no goal, no hope of resolution, or even a plausible way of answering. It takes a certain wonderful form of pretension to post something like "What is the meaning of life? [Insert paragraphs of wank that doesn't actually say anything].

You obviously buy into the whole scene, so of course you won't understand.


You are equally guilty. My posting habits remain the same through and through. Why would you point out that my avatar was an anime character, and ridicule me for saying something so deep? Since your whole post was about mocking, I wouls assume your tone would be to insult. I don't know what you're trying to get at here, but it seems your just fishing for an excuse lol.

Equally guilty of something I just admitted to? Congratulations, you've restated fact. (lol!)


I haven't been to college...

I know you haven't.

, nor did I use the worrd because of the reason you resented. Fallacy is a word I just happen to know, and just happens to fit the sentance perfectly. Mistake doesn't fit properly, because it's not a mistake, it's simply a problem with an aspect of the opinion. I could go on about how other words dont fit quite as properly, but I'm sure you're already drawing inaccurate conclusions about this post already. I'll leave you to your thoughts.

Right. "Pretentious faux-intellectual" is another phase I just happen to know.

Keep reaching for that rainbow, buddy.

[Megaman]

Yeah? Well at least I don't have a picture of a ghetto wigger who's flashing the peace sign as my avatar.

So if people talking with each other on a message board is so lame, why did you even bother to sign up? Talking about things with no answer is stupid and pointless? Why, with that way of thinking half this forum would not exist. Things would be less cluttered and to the point, no questions asked. I like the productive way you think. You should sign up to be one of those asshole CEO's. :yes:

[Tensei]

It's not humorous. It's annoying. I said that in my post. Of course I didn't want to participate in the thread, because I didn't. You're very perceptive, coupled with your razor sharp wit should take you very far.

Annoying then. The rest of the post still applies. You really *are* fishing lol.

Sure you do. That is pretty much the psychological definition of being insecure, the need to lash out.

Apparently you don't know the difference between want and need. I said you wanted to, not needed to. That is the difference.

Or C) Knowing all too well stating an unpopular opinion in an abrasive manner wouldn't cause any improvement of my self image, I went ahead and posted it. What happened to "trying to make myself look better"? The boat sail on that idea?

I guess you never considered that that is exactly what you wanted? It wasn't just abrasive, it was egocentric, you forgot that. You thrive off the fact that your opinion differs from others, you try to make us look like idiots. Hmm, I wonder what you're trying to do then? I guess your superior logic is far to advanced to comprehend. Maybe we should go back to kindergarden where you wont do what the teacher tells you, just because "You went ahead and stated your unpopular opinon". Then, tomarrow we can work on shapes and colors. You stated it this way because you wanted to sound cooler or better than the others, and you think your opinion is better. Thats the case and point.

Or rather, I feel secure in my beliefs that I don't have to essentially intellectually "masturbate" on a thread that has no goal, no hope of resolution, or even a plausible way of answering. It takes a certain wonderful form of pretension to post something like "What is the meaning of life? [Insert paragraphs of wank that doesn't actually say anything].

If someone is secure in his beliefs, he lacks the necessity to state them. This whole thread is made to share opinons, and given, you have every right to share yours. However, the way you did was rude, and you're not half as intelligent as you seem to think you are. If you want to use that logic, don't post on a forum ever again. In the overall scale of things, this forum, and every other forum on the net, has no real importance either. You must be inexperienced at debate to, because discussing can lead to similar thoughts, agreeing, disagreeing, whichever. It opens your mind to more opinions from a variety of different people. That's saying alot, it's interesting.


Equally guilty of something I just admitted to? Congratulations, you've restated fact. (lol!)

Actually, I thought you were accusing me. I guess I'll have to congratulate you as well on making a post completely pointless. Stating a point, and you're guilty of it too...Magnificent web of logic you've spun.

Right. "Pretentious faux-intellectual" is another phase I just happen to know

LOL.

This is too funny for words. I bet everytime you do something smart your friend's lose a bet.

[ShadowDeth]

Annoying then. The rest of the post still applies. You really *are* fishing lol.

Apparently you don't know the difference between want and need. I said you wanted to, not needed to. That is the difference.


What am I fishing for exactly? You asked me why I posted what I did, and I told you. I'm not trying to justify why I did what I did.

Second point - Alright then. We have estabilished you think I feel the *want* to post what I did. What is my reasoning beyond doing it? Let's make this thread interesting finally.

I guess you never considered that that is exactly what you wanted? It wasn't just abrasive, it was egocentric, you forgot that. You thrive off the fact that your opinion differs from others, you try to make us look like idiots. Hmm, I wonder what you're trying to do then? I guess your superior logic is far to advanced to comprehend. Maybe we should go back to kindergarden where you wont do what the teacher tells you, just because "You went ahead and stated your unpopular opinon". Then, tomarrow we can work on shapes and colors. You stated it this way because you wanted to sound cooler or better than the others, and you think your opinion is better. Thats the case and point.

Egocentric? That's a stretch. I feel my opinion is just as valid as the next person's (and vice-versa), excluding some people who don't even attempt to form theirs based on any sort of logic, fact or reasoning. However, I also know that I don't have to put forth much of an effort to make people look like idiots, as illustrated in your post.

Kindergarten? Shapes and colors? "Cooler" opinion? <-------Red flag. I'm not talking with someone who is very articulate, or even intelligent.

f someone is secure in his beliefs, he lacks the necessity to state them. This whole thread is made to share opinons, and given, you have every right to share yours. However, the way you did was rude, and you're not half as intelligent as you seem to think you are. If you want to use that logic, don't post on a forum ever again. In the overall scale of things, this forum, and every other forum on the net, has no real importance either. You must be inexperienced at debate to, because discussing can lead to similar thoughts, agreeing, disagreeing, whichever.

Correct. I have never stated my belief about what is the meaning of life, only that people who would use message boards aren't capable of understanding it. This could very well include myself, but you will never know!

Also note that I don't think anything that has happened in this thread has been intelligent up until the end of this reply, so you can stop trying to paint me as some 'egotist elitist' who thinks he has the monopoly on intelligence.

Now about debating, i'm extremely experienced in that. It's just some people aren't worth attempting to do it correctly with. I'm just arguing your points you brought up about myself, i'm not really "Debating" anything.

It opens your mind to more opinions from a variety of different people. That's saying alot, it's interesting.

That's hippy mentality. Not everyone is insightful or even worth talking to. That's your first mistake (well, in the list of a long line of them).


Actually, I thought you were accusing me. I guess I'll have to congratulate you as well on making a post completely pointless. Stating a point, and you're guilty of it too...Magnificent web of logic you've spun.

Actually, the anime profile remark was really directed at captain samurai champloo's post, not yours. I didn't even remember what you posted after reading it, and it certainly wasn't "almost" deep.


LOL.

This is too funny for words. I bet everytime you do something smart your friend's lose a bet.

More nonsense. I would love to get into a real discussion about the universe with you, or anyone else. Or even about why you take such issue with my initial post - but you really have nothing to add. There's nothing to gain really. (ELOHEL)

Yeah? Well at least I don't have a picture of a ghetto wigger who's flashing the peace sign as my avatar.

Call the internet police! Someone has mishandled a racial term!

Now without going into the number of reasons why this is hilarious - would you call a black person a nigger? Because you've essentially done that.

[Megaman]

Mishandling? I don't think so. According to the Urban Dictionary, A wigger is:

A male caucasion, usually born and raised in the suburbs that displays a strong desire to emulate African American Hip Hop culture and style through "Bling" fashion and generally accepted "thug life" guiding principles.

Now, unless I have gone blind, the man in your avatar is a caucasion male who displays a strong desire to emulate African American Hip Hop culture.

And yes, I think many people believe the correct derogitory word for a black person is a nigger.

So what are you doing on this forum? As you have said before, there are those who are realists that think life has no meaning, artsy people who think life is a flower and people need to smell it, and the poster who has anime in his profile. Which one are you? Or do you fall under the "Loser who needs to put down other losers to confirm his existance"?

[ShadowDeth]

I vote for blind and absolutely wrong. I personally see someone who has tan skin, a metallica hat, and a generic grey sweatshirt. What leads you to believe i'm caucasian to begin with?

Is it your assertion that metallica is a sign of someone emulating black culture? Or is it the hoody? Maybe the fact that when the picture was taken it was 10 degrees outside and it's cheaper to wear something warm than throw on the heat? What about the victory sign, which one would infer within context of this message board is a play on the japanese tendency to flash in front of a camera?

Or is it the fact I actually am *gasp* black/white and you're just another latent racist looking for a chance to throw around words that are hurtful to some people. Obviously not myself, because it is both hilarious and ignorant but i'm sure many people would have physically attacked you had you said that to them in person.

"And yes, I think many people believe the correct derogitory word for a black person is a nigger."

This is true. I also think that many people believe it's an appropriate word for casual use with black people who they take issue with, when it isn't. Your point?

So what are you doing on this forum?

Why, i'm exchanging ideas and concepts through the use of an online medium. What else would I be doing?

Or do you fall under the "Loser who needs to put down other losers to confirm his existance"?
-Quote for irony

You would think someone so obviously taking the moral high ground wouldn't have to put down others to confirm his existance[sic], right?

I know you're like 12, so I won't get too angry with your amusing posts. Perhaps you should think more carefully about what you say in the future? I wouldn't want an otaku getting attacked for his inability to handle social situations.

This is just for your safety, because I care.

[Tensei]

What am I fishing for exactly? You asked me why I posted what I did, and I told you. I'm not trying to justify why I did what I did.

Fishing for a point. Change the one word humorous to annoying and you haven't even adressed the point. As in, I'm pretty sure you probably dont even have a response.

Second point - Alright then. We have estabilished you think I feel the *want* to post what I did. What is my reasoning beyond doing it? Let's make this thread interesting finally.

Everyone, no matter what they do, has a reason for doing it. This a a fundamental principle of anything, try me. No one does things to do them. First off, your post was insulting, because of the manner in which you stated your opinion, it gives you reason for doing such. If you thought you were not better than us, you wouldn't have insulted us. If you thought you weren't trying to make yoruself look better, you wouldn't have posted in that manner. The reason you posted, is because you A. Found it annoying so you B. Posted insulting commentary about it, because C. You think you have a better opinion, and/or are better than us. Belittling others only makes you feel higher. That's why you posted.

Egocentric? That's a stretch. I feel my opinion is just as valid as the next person's (and vice-versa), excluding some people who don't even attempt to form theirs based on any sort of logic, fact or reasoning. However, I also know that I don't have to put forth much of an effort to make people look like idiots, as illustrated in your post.

A stretch? In so many words, you pretty much said all of our opinions don't matter because we have retarded ideas. That you know better lol. I'm not sure what dictionary you use for definition, but that sounds like egotism to me. As far as I'm concerned, you haven't done anything except futily try to explain why you're right.

Kindergarten? Shapes and colors? "Cooler" opinion? <-------Red flag. I'm not talking with someone who is very articulate, or even intelligent.

I'll adress this with some re-iteration. My point is, you stated it to look good. I'll make note to simplify my other points so you can better understand.

Correct. I have never stated my belief about what is the meaning of life, only that people who would use message boards aren't capable of understanding it. This could very well include myself, but you will never know!

Incorrect, you stated your belief here:

I'm pretty sure if there was a way to identify the inherent meaning of human life someone using a message board wouldn't know it, but that's just me.

In your words, you are explaining that there is not a way to identify the inherent meaning of life, and also, that people on a forum wouldn't know.

Also note that I don't think anything that has happened in this thread has been intelligent up until the end of this reply, so you can stop trying to paint me as some 'egotist elitist' who thinks he has the monopoly on intelligence.

Nah, I think I'll reserve judgment for whomever I feel.

That's hippy mentality. Not everyone is insightful or even worth talking to. That's your first mistake (well, in the list of a long line of them).

Hippy? Please, I find all opinions interesting no matter how stupid they are. Why do you think I'm debating with you?

Actually, the anime profile remark was really directed at captain samurai champloo's post, not yours. I didn't even remember what you posted after reading it, and it certainly wasn't "almost" deep.

Guess that's my real 'first mistake'. I do apologize.

More nonsense. I would love to get into a real discussion about the universe with you, or anyone else. Or even about why you take such issue with my initial post - but you really have nothing to add. There's nothing to gain really. (ELOHEL)

Guess you were just bored then? lol

Or rather I was. A dose of good healthy arguing is good for the soul. But I honestly doubt you'd like to discuss this, because you haven't made an attempt thus far. This was the perfect thread for it too.

[ShadowDeth]

As much as I honestly would love to continue beating your face in with this exchange, let's do away with the striped responses. I actually have something else to be doing, but this is just pure gold so I can't ignore it.

"If you thought you weren't trying to make yoruself look better, you wouldn't have posted in that manner. The reason you posted, is because you A. Found it annoying so you B. Posted insulting commentary about it, because C. You think you have a better opinion, and/or are better than us. Belittling others only makes you feel higher. That's why you posted."

Faulty logic. You're wrong. It can't be too hard to imagine that perhaps you don't actually have the answer here. That's the end of that.

"I'll adress this with some re-iteration. My point is, you stated it to look good. I'll make note to simplify my other points so you can better understand."

It was actually quite simple to begin with, and juvenile. I said you were inarticulate to look good? To who, people on a message board who generally dislike my posts? Rock solid logic right there buddy.

"In your words, you are explaining that there is not a way to identify the inherent meaning of life, and also, that people on a forum wouldn't know."

Or rather, I claimed that people who would use message boards have no way to know. I'm pretty sure I didn't say there wasn't a way to identify the purpose of the universe, only that the people here aren't capable of it. I know this is really deep stuff i'm throwing out, but please try a little harder to keep up.

"Guess that's my real 'first mistake'. I do apologize."

See, that's why your perception is generally flawed to begin with. You assumed that you're so important, that any reply had to be addressing you. You also assume that you have made no mistakes in the conversation so far, and that is pretty laughable.

"Guess you were just bored then? lol"

Please take that lol business back to the naruto chatrooms, alright?

[Megaman]

"This is true. I also think that many people believe it's an appropriate word for casual use with black people who they take issue with, when it isn't. Your point?"

My point was just answering your previous question of "Would you call a black person a nigger?" The answer was that, with rude or friendly intentions, people would call a black person a nigger.

"You would think someone so obviously taking the moral high ground wouldn't have to put down others to confirm his existance[sic], right?"

Who said I was taking the moral high ground? I called you a wigger right?

"I know you're like 12, so I won't get too angry with your amusing posts. Perhaps you should think more carefully about what you say in the future? I wouldn't want an otaku getting attacked for his inability to handle social situations."

Age doesn't matter in the least bit. Besides, what makes you think I am an otaku? So what if I have an anime avatar? Does wearing a hat that has a metallica logo on it automatically make you a metallica-obsessed freak? If you are so upset over being mislabeled as a caucasian male, what makes you so sure that you can mislabel me as an otaku?

[ShadowDeth]

^ Very artful the way you dodged all the points I brought up. That's the sign of a faltering argument that is attempting to back out.

1) I asked if YOU would. Durh?

2) Coming down on myself for my percieved attacks on others is in fact taking the moral high ground. The plot thickens.

3) Age does matter. It gives you a guideline what to expect from someone when they open their mouth, in regards to general wisdom and maturity. I knew ahead of time, that you being however young you are probably don't have anything worth listening to, but I did. And I regret it now.

4) You could infer that. I do know that you said something unbelievably stupid, and are now attempting to dig up definitions (unofficial) to back them up. That bullshit doesn't fly with me, but like I said - you're young and I don't expect much to begin with.

5) I'm not upset, you can think i'm whatever race you want, and you can call me whatever slur you want to. Just as easily as I can claim that you're just another little kid who has no business posting responses, due to his lack of observation, intelligence and social skills.

Sound good?

[Megaman]

1) Yes, I would if they get me angry. I don't care if I get beat up because of that and that's my choice so you shouldn't be worried about that.

2) The remark where you said that there was 'the guy who undoubtedly has an anime character in his profile telling you something deep and profound like "there is no meaning to life"' is obviously aimed at me.

3) I guess having more experience at life does make you more qualified to rag on retarded kids like me.

4) Well you infered wrong. Just think of a way that I can prove it to you and I will.

5) I guess that's true. Each man is entitled to his own assumptions of those around him.

No it does not sound good. In fact, it makes you sound like a pompous snob. You may be good at debating and proving points, but even you aren't qualified to go to a thread and insult everyone who has posted there.

[ShadowDeth]

:rofl:

I was actually referring to delen, someone who's opinion I hold quite a bit higher than yours or Tensei's.

The best part is I wasn't even serious in my initial reply, or even the fact you're not aware that I was repeatedly self-deprecating my own post.

[Tensei]

Ok. Well if we're discontinuing. My final answer is, we're both wrong or we're both right. You seem to think you're right, and I seem to think I am. despite how much you or I think we're actually proving anything but how much time we can waste on something silly, we're not. You wont give up your point and niether will I. So fuck it lol.

I'd also like to point out, this is t3h internet, 'lol' is something I use when I'm speaking to someone who can't fire me.

As far as the point about me thinking I'm important. Maybe you should try being more perceptive. You addressed someone, without name, who had an anime avatar. We both would assume you're speaking of us. Has nothing to do with how highly, or not so highly I think of myself.

[Megaman]

Oh... Um... Sorry then. Sarcasm is a bit hard to detect through text.

[ShadowDeth]

Calling someone a wigger isn't really debating anything/anyone.

[Megaman]

Exactly...

[fa11en87]

What is this number stuff? 14...42? Well I'm taking this theory from Ayn Rand with a little twist, but I think the purpose is to fully enjoy life while helping others at the same time.

[Megaman]

It's from Douglas Adam's book "The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy".

Geez, me and Tensei said basically the same things...

[fa11en87]

Ohh ok thanks lol. I was getting very confused.

[Masa the Masta]

As much as I honestly would love to continue beating your face in with this exchange, let's do away with the striped responses. I actually have something else to be doing, but this is just pure gold so I can't ignore it.

Attempting to come off as busy does not in any way make you any more articulate. Stop using chatroom poser techniques, this is a forum of educated discussion that does not require having to throw insults.

"If you thought you weren't trying to make yoruself look better, you wouldn't have posted in that manner. The reason you posted, is because you A. Found it annoying so you B. Posted insulting commentary about it, because C. You think you have a better opinion, and/or are better than us. Belittling others only makes you feel higher. That's why you posted."

Faulty logic. You're wrong. It can't be too hard to imagine that perhaps you don't actually have the answer here. That's the end of that.

The truth is, YOUR perception of logic and his perception of logic are different. The problem however, is that you're providing a weak arguement by saying, "NO, YOU'RE WRONG. -the end" without providing for the reasons behind your assertion that it is wrong. It's a problem because the attitude in your writing implies that other people are ignorant, or just plain stupid. Okay, you said it was wrong. Why?

Welcome to a debate.


"In your words, you are explaining that there is not a way to identify the inherent meaning of life, and also, that people on a forum wouldn't know."

Or rather, I claimed that people who would use message boards have no way to know. I'm pretty sure I didn't say there wasn't a way to identify the purpose of the universe, only that the people here aren't capable of it. I know this is really deep stuff i'm throwing out, but please try a little harder to keep up.

One might also say that with you posting you, you also belong in that very same group that is incapable of knowing the true meaning of this universe, which brings us to the question, why bother even noting this? If these ideas about the Universe were so similar and lacking depth, then your answer must be no different, considering you also post here.

"Guess that's my real 'first mistake'. I do apologize."

See, that's why your perception is generally flawed to begin with. You assumed that you're so important, that any reply had to be addressing you. You also assume that you have made no mistakes in the conversation so far, and that is pretty laughable.

It was an apology, stop trying to base the validity of an entire arguement from one error.

Are you assuming that you do not make any mistakes in your arguements then?

"Guess you were just bored then? lol"

Please take that lol business back to the naruto chatrooms, alright?

Welcome to Outpost nine. Have a nice day.

[King Kong]

Not entirely..

When an orgasm is felt, what happens after? We've successfully passed our genes into another human being, or at least fooled our bodies that we have (and our genes are currently drowning in a toilet or dying in a tissue paper..)...

Why do we exist then?

When some people have either lost their testicles or their ability to reproduce, what's their function then?

People still find reasons to live. It's whether or not you open your eyes to the possibilities.

Some people's reason to live was to lead. Others to become immortalized through their actions like writing, acting, DOING (Martin Luther King Jr. is still remembered.)

Whatever the case, I've noticed that the farther a person is from the "teenage years" of their life, the less "sex" becomes the meaning to life. Life begins to be less what Biology tells them, and more what they have presented in front of them..and they make whatever they can of it.

Good post :bwitch:

[Sephira]

personally, i've always liked the explanation that Kurt Vonnegut's son, Dr Mark Vonnegut said:

"We are here to help each other get through this thing, whatever it is."

[Masa the Masta]

Isn't Kurt Vonnegut still alive? I'm sure he'll have discovered the meaning of life...the guy wrote Slaughterhouse five for crying out loud. :boggled:

[ShadowDeth]

Attempting to come off as busy does not in any way make you any more articulate. Stop using chatroom poser techniques, this is a forum of educated discussion that does not require having to throw insults.


What I had to do is done now. Let the festivities commence.

Now on what planet does being busy have to do with how articulate you are? Your words prove how articulate you are, not something that unrelated. I was asking to stop going "blow for blow" with the replies, as in replying to every single idea. But like I said, I have time now so i'll dispense with your nonsense.

For such a forum of educated discussion, there was an awful lot of pseudo-intellectual bullshit being thrown around.


The truth is, YOUR perception of logic and his perception of logic are different. The problem however, is that you're providing a weak arguement by saying, "NO, YOU'RE WRONG. -the end" without providing for the reasons behind your assertion that it is wrong. It's a problem because the attitude in your writing implies that other people are ignorant, or just plain stupid. Okay, you said it was wrong. Why?


Oh yeah? Why is what you're doing with my response any different than what I did with his? "No, you're wrong, my dad can beat up your dad!". Spare me.

Welcome to a debate.

Eh. You're corny? You can't really reply to this sort of nonsense.


One might also say that with you posting you, you also belong in that very same group that is incapable of knowing the true meaning of this universe, which brings us to the question, why bother even noting this? If these ideas about the Universe were so similar and lacking depth, then your answer must be no different, considering you also post here.

In fact, I alluded to that many times - and then outright said it in this post! <---right here "Welcome to sardonic humor, where all you have to do is post something under the guise of a genuine statement, but insert holes meant to bait the unperceptive reader!"


It was an apology, stop trying to base the validity of an entire arguement from one error.


See, that's just the thing though. When one person makes such a glaring mistake, you have to call into question his judgement alltogether.

Are you assuming that you do not make any mistakes in your arguements then?

I'm sure I do, but for the most part I don't open my mouth (or fingers as it were) unless i'm fairly certain I know what I'm talking about. But i'll give you the answer you're looking for. No, of course I don't make mistakes.


Welcome to Outpost nine. Have a nice day.

A fitting end to a pointless "rebuttal"? Thanks for the greeting though, I appreciate it.

I hope you have a nice day as well, and drive safe. It's pretty icy out there.

[slinky]

"We are here to help each other get through this thing, whatever it is."

I like that!

I also really like this:
Whatever the case, I've noticed that the farther a person is from the "teenage years" of their life, the less "sex" becomes the meaning to life. Life begins to be less what Biology tells them, and more what they have presented in front of them..and they make whatever they can of it.

As for this:
I'm pretty sure if there was a way to identify the inherent meaning of human life someone using a message board wouldn't know it, but that's just me.

I disagree. I think that people on a message board are emminently qualified to determine what it is. The origin of life? Perhaps not. The meaning? Yes.

The reason being I think that the meaning of life is an intensely personal thing. No one can tell you what yours should be but hopefully some, at least, can tell you what theirs is.

Mine is probably a blend of the first two (though I won't word it nearly as well). It is to simply grow and learn as much and in as many ways as I can before the end. And (the tricky bit sometimes) to not to try to benchmark where I am against the time left in the game.

[ShadowDeth]

I disagree. I think that people on a message board are emminently qualified to determine what it is. The origin of life? Perhaps not. The meaning? Yes.

The reason being I think that the meaning of life is an intensely personal thing. No one can tell you what yours should be but hopefully some, at least, can tell you what theirs is.


Sure. Life is wholly subjective, often influenced by such bias as family, culture, religion, morals/ethics or what have you. The only constant would be whatever value you place on life.

That's a real answer, but one I hadn't really witnessed in the thread.

[Sephira]

Isn't Kurt Vonnegut still alive? I'm sure he'll have discovered the meaning of life...the guy wrote Slaughterhouse five for crying out loud. :boggled:

yes, he's still alive, although i don't think he'd ever admit he knew the meaning of life.

the quote came from his article, Cold Turkey (http://www.inthesetimes.com/site/main/article/733/)

[Kwiz]

personally, i've always liked the explanation that Kurt Vonnegut's son, Dr Mark Vonnegut said:

"We are here to help each other get through this thing, whatever it is."

Take heed of what Dr. Vonnegut wrote, I'd say.

[ruaidhri]

I started this recently maligned and derailed thread. My intent was to give members a forum to identify what they believed was important in our lives. In my first post I wrote, “My solution to the meaning of life is simple. Live it, don’t worry about it and at the end be happy about how you’ll be remembered even if it is for but a short time.” I participate in OP9 because I enjoy reading peoples’ opinions. I don’t need to agree with everyone’s viewpoint to appreciate their value. On the question posted in this thread, I believe the meaning of life is such a vague concept that there is no single answer. There also is no incorrect answer.

So, why the feud over something so silly as what someone else believes is their meaning of life.? If it doesn’t hurt, kill or in any way harm someone what difference does it make? I believe the primary reason for blasting another’s opinion is to elevate one’s own. This, restricts further discussion because potential posters don’t want to face ridicule. The only winner is the person that ridicules because the others have lost their forum.

Instead of reading about disagreement and ridicule I’d much rather read everyone’s personal opinion about what has the most meaning for them. I don’t believe you have to be an eminent philosopher to appreciate life and our role in living our lives. To suggest otherwise would, I believe, be most pretentious.

[Masa the Masta]

I don't know why, but everytime I read Ruaidhri's writing, I feel like a "Dumbledore" like presence, a wise man.

That's not to be calling you ancient or anything, I think it's kind of cool.


And I actually had an idea for a story about the whole, human beings becoming perfect and aligning themselves with God.

[Idlethought]

Ruaidhri is the Dumbeldore of this forum. He's the Wise Man on the Mountain. He's Pai Mei without all the pain lol. Plus hes just got that mischeivious smile, you gotta listen to that voice of reason.

Anyway on topic: I'm sure that since the vast majority of us here are young'ns, what life means to us will change time and time again. I know personally, within the last year, what life meant to me changed several times over. As you gain experience and insight, as you see more shit and come to know new things, some things will gain more significance. Others will fade away. Although my word carries about as much weight as a canary, I urge everyone to not try to stick to one solid thought about what life means. Instead be like Bruce Lee, be like water. Adapt your belief to the changing time.

Thats all from me.

[ruaidhri]

Thank you for the kind words and thank you for returning to the purpose of this thread.