(Articles on Master Numi: https://www.philosocom.com/post/on-philosocom-s-true-master-my-mysterious-late-grandmother-esther-drucker https://www.philosocom.com/post/analysing-my-fatigue-the-need-for-a-positive-dream https://www.philosocom.com/post/granny-s-ambition-a-poem https://www.philosocom.com/post/alienation-as-natural https://www.philosocom.com/post/the-heisenberg-of-philosophy-within-a-shadowy-intellect https://www.philosocom.com/post/the-each-new-day-problem https://www.philosocom.com/post/the-multi-layered-shadow-box-poem https://www.philosocom.com/post/had-to-be https://www.philosocom.com/post/philosopher-king https://www.philosocom.com/post/world-peace https://www.philosocom.com/post/mad-genius https://www.philosocom.com/post/memento-mori https://www.philosocom.com/post/static-shock https://www.philosocom.com/post/forsaken-bond ) (2025 note: The Power of Love  redeemed me, and now I am walking the path of the truly good person) Article Synopsis by Mr. J. Igwe and Co. The article "How and Why I Cope With My Embraced Purpose (And Master Numi Directory)" is a profound exploration of identity , purpose, and the influence of a mysterious grandmother called Master Numi. It showcases the writer's personal emotions and thoughts, engaging readers with the philosopher's journey. The philosophical depth of the article, including references to asceticism, detachment, and existential dilemmas, provides a rich backdrop for the narrative. The vivid imagery and metaphors used, such as comparing oneself to Darth Vader and comparing life experiences to that of a "Tekken fighter," make the ideas relatable and make Mr. Tomasio's ideas more relatable. The article's complex characterization adds depth to the writing, revealing a persona grappling with love, hatred, hope, and disillusionment. In conclusion, the article stands out as a bold, philosophical exploration of identity, purpose, and resilience. (Background music) We are the living energy of the Universe, being born and reborn. To experience every aspect of existence via every possible perspective. We exist in every form and shape. Across every environment. We share an innate need to see and feel, and understand exactly what we are. Flesh is only the tool temporarily used -- Mr. John Duran Numi Made Me (And Philosocom, by Proxy) Instead of becoming a drug baron that is ruthless towards others, I became an article baron that is ruthless towards myself . Only sometimes ruthless towards others. Numi, my grandmother, made me who I am today. Made me. Me, an ascetic man that can restore himself fairly quickly back to health. Very few people can actually understand how I think, as I transform all the time in solitude, and change and evolve like a snake who constantly sheds his skin. To understand eccentric people like me , you might feel compelled to be an apprentice, rather than a friend. Me, a person that can easily overwhelm people without batting an eye, and then they simply state why they came to talk to me in the first place/who they are in their relation to me. Me, the Heisenberg of philosophy. An obvious goofball. Far less obvious are... the intricate elements. Me, a man who secretly saved people from their own hands, and will use this fact constantly to make you reconsider the idea of spending time with me, in real life. Me, a biased judge of life and death , who is always biased towards life. Biased, in the name of life. Me, a detached metaphorical undead. Me, who decided to open up a massive article empire in my mysterious, degreeless understanding. Me, who doesn't have friends. Only apprentices and equal intellects , at this point. Me, who experiences being forsaken by the world... as something wonderful. Me, a mysterious shadowy man none of you succeed in understanding properly, except very, very few people. Me, a man that built himself in isolation to be a contra to this world's depravities. Me, a person you may easily judge as just an autistic, socially awkward geek. A person you merely believe you understand despite your lack of demonstrated curiosity. A Critique of Conventional Perceptions I don't even need to mislead you. You already mislead yourselves... unfortunately. I move on and rectify the world , and you all just jump to your conclusions, as your understanding remains unquestioning. Uncritical. Conventional. And... well? I like it. Specifically, I just utilize everything as an opportunity for something. I like to be left alone. And, I use negativity to help others too. Help them improve. Help them stay away from being attached to me. Very few people, I seek to be attached to me. I dislike attachments, as attachments drive you to rage and pain and agony. I just watch it. Watch, and learn. Learn, and grow according to the data my genius brain processes. I am a very ambitious, relentless man, despite what I may appear to the naked eye. I am negative because I am using the very same negativity to grow myself. Think of Darth Vader who gives in to his rage, and becomes more powerful as a result. In fact, Darth Vader is fueled by pain, as his suit was made to give him pain at all times. To mentally survive and to grow extremely competent, Vader all the time transmutes his energies to become the best dark lord he can ever be. That of course allowed him to overthrow the Emperor himself. Not even the entire rebel alliance managed to take Palpatine. Their hopes and their optimism and their joy, paled in comparison to Vader's negativity. All the world's negativity, I study, and I transmute. Transmute this energy, to serve her better.... Numi. Why I Saved Her And Easily Endure This Fact By saving Master Numi, my beloved grandmother, as a child, I have altered my life's trajectory forever. Technically, I could've let her die. However, letting her die meant others would've died as well. Die, by heartache. After all, in the social world, no man is an island... That is why, to mentally survive a world I find absurd, I also took upon myself to save myself from the same fate as my true master, by questioning my social nature , becoming an ascetic, and living a life of adversity, in the name of world rectification. Impediment after impediments.... all are challenges to me. Opportunities to learn, apply, and repeat this pattern I find basic. My life was never easy. It will never be easy either. You might want to seek a life of ease, and that might be because you are not strong enough internally like a Tekken fighter, to live the hard life I take upon myself to live. I don't even want to have fun, or at least, waste my life away on petty pleasantries that prevent me from becoming the best version of myself. Focusing on self-improvement, is necessary to help this dumb planet we all live on. All of us. A planet we can't even escape from just yet... The Wonders of Adversities Transmuted "If I was in your condition, I would've killed myself a long time ago" One of my site contributors discreetly said, during a period I call the Reaping Fatigue Era , where I found myself a handicap. Yet, a life of adversity gives me the strength, the power, the bravery and perhaps the arrogance too, to dare. Dare do what others are too foolishly human to do.... to save people, by being the one man, the one man, that bothers to encourage them, to believe in themselves. To inspire hope into their hearts. To live despite the struggle , using my free philosophical articles and in general. Ever before the death of my grandmother, as she crowned me as World Rectificator, I took upon myself to live a life of mystery and isolation, necessary to help others while remaining non-attached to the very world I am a part of. For some weird reason, I still have the hope to find more and more people as smart as I am around me, whenever I am... I am only feeling, however, bitterness of disappointment I don't even show. No. I use this emotion as well , to learn and grow. My Attempt to Understand This World I am Part Of As I depersonalized myself willingly using asceticism and my Master's moral teachings, my specific life will always, always be unique. My life will never have any conventionality in it. This is the life I choose to live, necessary to help others, who often, for some reason.... fail to think for themselves. When they get to think, it is usually after they lash out at me for my brutal honesty.... Lash out, not before they are consumed by emotion, and the false information their emotions tell them in their respective distresses , in front of my truth. In front of my ruthless philosophy I tell them to help them. Perhaps, when they sleep, they learn as well. Learn to keep their distance from me, like most of this world should on a personal level. All I care about is philosophy, and I only see and interact with the world using my ever growing philosophical mastery. I interact with the world, to help it. Help it, regardless of what exactly I choose to do. My Unrelenting Refusal to be Like Many of You A mere child, and I was already faced with a moral dilemma involving several lives. It was the choice of saving her and traumatizing myself.... or forsaking her... like the rest of the planet did. I cannot allow myself to live a life of ease. I cannot. I cannot when most of humanity is too afraid. Too afraid to decide. Too afraid to think. Too afraid to resist , the very fear that governs their hearts in matters of adversity. With all the people I have interacted with, offline and online, I unfortunately have yet to find a man with a will to power , as strong as I have. I overwhelm others easily. I overwhelm them by the fact I exist. You see this as pride, I see this is a mere fact. An... unfortunate fact. I therefore enjoy distance , as to spare humanity of all my shocking carelessness. Humanity, the very species that forsaken my granny. The very species I am a member of. The very species I enjoy opposing like an anti-villain . Out of love. Love for a better world. Love.... for Paradise Incarnate. How could I forgive myself... even as a child, if I just forsaken my own grandma, who loved me more than anyone in this world in her final years, I wonder? I couldn't. I couldn't... The Nature of My Deceased Master It was too hard for people to handle my Master Numi due to her total disregard to the very norms that confined them to their small, mental cages. Her brutal honesty echoed the words of Plato: “No one is more hated than he who speaks the truth.” -- Plato Her honesty wasn't anti-social , but the most humane I have ever witnessed. Overly concerned for the wellbeing of others, and feeling helpless for her inability to relieve her concerns by taking care of others , Master Numi fell from grace by her own excessive heart. She fell into deep isolation she wasn't fond of at all. Even then, as a child, I attempted helping her with her problems, and listening to her. Her problems stemmed from the very understanding she, too, isn't an island like it may appear. No. Not an island she was. Her interconnectivity to the world was as obvious to her as the sun. My True Master's Verdict of Being And yet, the philosophical fluffs of an old, eccentric retired lady didn't matter to anyone, as this intellect sat all alone in her apartment, unable to host the different types of people throughout her life, which she loved so much (as she was full of love in general). She was an intellect that refused to be misused; An intellect that refused to be used for abuse. An intellect that just wanted to be morally used.... Used by me. Me. Her only apprentice. Her moral, mortal executor. With her naive, impulsive honesty, with her lack of social competence, and a heart as big as that of a puppy, she failed to rectify the world on her own. Instead, she talked and she lectured like the underground philosopher she was. Lectured me, specifically. With her brutal insensitivity, along with the false premise that people want to understand her, she talked. They did not want to learn from her. Instead, humanity preferred to go away, intimidated by her. Humanity preferred to yell in blind rage at the old lady, leading her to collapse on the floor in tears, and cry that the world has abandoned her. The Growing Exception All didn't listen, but me. The child who silently sat there and observed and studied. The child people didn't know who did that until this very day... And they still don't know. None of them. I silently sat, and observed my surroundings, and for some reason, I weirdly grew up to be like her, as her secretive successor. The one she attempted preparing. The one she succeeded in preparing. The one to execute her orders. The Growing "Misanthrope" As people try to come to me, and tell me that I need to smile , and that I need to be happy and enjoy life... I.... I refuse. I refuse being this stupid. Stupid like them, who are unable to realize by themselves, that people die all the time like flies across this planet. They easily ignore them in their infantile innocence, deeming themselves the grown, well-versed adults. Ignoring these people who live. Ignoring, and living in their own small mental prisons. The ignoring, which are people who think I care for their stupid, stupid banter, that meddles with my cerebral cortex in their naivety, as I keep being a relentless, detached altruist. I refuse. Refuse to cater to the wants and needs of those I eventually realize are dumber than me. Refuse to cater to the wants and needs of the naive, who never heard of my master, and never heard of me. People who can't understand, for one, need a competent brain for this in the first place . In my own naivety, I really believed most people are as intelligent as I am. No. No they aren't.... unfortunately. I wished they were. I wished they were... The Growing Clarity and Detachment And when Master Numi yelled... The world has forsaken me!! I didn't even cry. No. I studied instead, in the isolation of my permanent mental detachment from the very same world she for some reason felt passionate to not be detached from. The world that forsaken her, my underground master. None of you seem to deduce the fact my morality is her morality, although I might be wrong. My moral understanding is a product of hers. And that's how your ego works against you. In your unconscious, unexamined hubris, you think you understand me enough. Some of you at least. Understand me, you think, without making the basic connection between me and Master Numi. Awww, my wonderful Numi. The Harmonious Infrastructure of Love and Hate With my love for her I will succeed and try to win in everything I like taking seriously. Much of what I like taking seriously, is what she liked taking seriously when she was alive. However, I developed far, far beyond my old, deceased master. While she was full of love, I was full of hate. I like being full of hate, for I use it for the greater good. I shed the name of Tom. I instead became glum. Glum, and "paradoxically" enough, full of hope. I hate this world with every fiber of my being. "In contrast", I am in love, in love with the idea of making this world a paradise. As slowly as it takes. And it goes very... very... slowly. Slowly... as I am full of love towards her, and full of hatred, towards most of the uneducated, naive, naive humanity. For some, weird, cosmic reason , I am the antagonist here. Not the hero. Rather, the "bad guy". And I play my part with all my heart, soul... and being.

Why Do You Still Love Me? -- Theme of Forsaken Bond (Directory on Weakness) (Numi Directory) (Background music) O, cursed weakling family, Why do you still embrace me warmly? Your weakness I deeply despise, Denying reality, while for another day you rise. I saved your Numi, and got no thanks, Reminiscing on her attempt, stronger, me makes. Along with all the other people I saved, I intend to keep myself to a life that's remotely caved. As I tell that to people them, I easily repel, They have not the strength to endure what I did, the hell. And neither do you, so why do you still love me? I dedicated my life to the truth for all to see, Yet only few truly have the strength to directly face me, As I obliviously and graphically tell what happened on that day, Because for me it was just another Tuesday. I care not for pleasantries, only for honesty, Which you have not the strength to face bravely. I don't want to love you, I hate you with all my heart, For you are weak, as I in long periods of solitude from humanity depart. Truth and strength are my aims and what I seek to maintain, Loving you, only enables the weakness which is your chosen lane. I don't want attachments, for they put my strength in vain, Strength and truth are the main aims of this Rubinshtein. Yet you persist, with your warm birthday greetings, Only enhance the passion that is my hatred feelings. As it is not healthy to hate I still dare to face my fate, Which is solitude, and my time for you -- too late. I have abandoned the past, and instead focus on my future, One of love and retirement, I seek to nurture. Family is chosen, and that is for whom you bleed, And I have forsaken my cursed genetic root and seed. Late grandma was not strong enough to admit she was saved by a kid, Who grew up a massive article empire to lonely lead. It is hard for me to embrace that which I forsake, So go ahead, leave me alone, for heaven's sake. I will keep reminding that people I saved in order to filter, Those who prefer these incredible achievements to throw with the litter. You, family, have not the strength to endure the hell I prematurely did, So off with you and your love, your psychological need. I chose the road less taken, the solitary ascetic, With the brutal, honest truth as my aesthetic. With it, the world I seek to rectify, Hopefully my ambition won't for nothing run dry.

(Philosocom's Subcategory Directory on Potential and Hope) (Background music) As the end of 2025 is coming near, I'd like to voice some of the things I wish for this world and humanity... I wish that there will be less wars and less human suffering . I wish that more people will be able to find happiness and joy in life. I wish life will be more bearable for all those who are struggling. I wish more people, individuals and nations, will have the strength in them to put hatred and hostilities aside and choose peace and co-existence instead. I wish there will be less division and strife between people, and that the world will be able to reach stability. I wish more people will be able to endure the loneliness epidemic happening around the world and not give up. I wish prosperity to the poor, contentment to the rich, housing for the homeless and food for the hungry. I wish it will be easier for all those who are struggling. I wish safety for all those who choose to travel the world in these difficult times. I wish the ambitious will would manage to get what they want out of life, and I wish the depressed would be able to solve their own depression like I did. I wish more people will be able to find love , whether with another person or within themselves. I wish that all those struggling to find work, who need it , will manage to find a position that will satisfy their wants and needs. I wish broken families will manage to either re-unite again or form new families that will be more suitable for their members. I wish more people will be able to be content with their situation in life. I wish justice for the oppressed and medicine for the ill. I wish more people will be able to succeed in whatever they set their eyes on. I wish there will be less exploitation and more love. I wish for harmony in war torn countries, and for the continuation of peace in countries that managed to find stability. I wish there will be more accessibility to the disabled , and more acceptance towards those who are different. I wish that the misfits of this world would be able to find their place in the world and be content with it. I wish both the virtual and the physical world to be less toxic, less hateful and less violent. I wish people will be safe and will manage to successfully endure whatever life throws at them. I wish there will be less heartbreaks in this cruel world, and that people in relationships will manage to live happy lives together. I wish the divorced would manage to still see their children . I wish for less abuse in the world and less trauma . I wish solace to the mournful and strength to the weak. I wish this world would be able to accept honesty with less rejection, and toughness to the people willing to hear the truth. I wish the greedy would be able to appreciate the world beyond the quest for more money. I wish the lustful would manage to satisfy their desires without inflicting suffering. I wish for a world where people would manage to be themselves without the fear of judgement or exclusion. I wish businesses to thrive, and for things to be able to get less expensive. I wish people will get to do whatever they want without hurting others in the process. I wish less people will seek revenge against those who have wronged them, and those who do, tunnel their ambition towards building a good life. I wish for less people to seek their own early demise, and instead find hope in being alive. I wish for people struggling with physical or mental health issues to find good health . I wish both children and adults would manage to smile and laugh more often. I wish for those who are in toxic relationships to find the strength within themselves to break free and find better alternatives. I wish for less people to be miserable, and more people to find what makes them happy in life. I wish for extroverts to find the company that makes them happy, and for the introverted to be able to make the most out of their solitude. I wish writers and artists to be able to craft their work without fear, and to make the best out of their creative expressions. I wish for more good news and less bad news. I wish for more people to be able to cooperate with each other instead of quickly be at each other's throats. I wish for the education system to be able to prepare people to the world of adults instead of producing obedient "drones". I wish for the prideful not be blinded by their egos , and for the modest to be able to appreciate what they've done thus far in life. I wish for less disasters to be done, whether natural or human made. I wish people would be able to get their rights fairly like those who already have them. I wish for the law to be fair and just , for streets and cities to be safe, and for crime to be reduced. I wish for less corruption and for more justice and equity. I wish people would continue to be able to enjoy the written word, and for less brains to get rotten . I wish humans will still be able to enjoy writing despite the age of AI slop. I wish for more original content to continue to be made, and for hidden gems to continue to be preserved. I wish for leaders and managers to be strong enough to endure any challenge that stands in their way. I wish for more goodness and less evil in humanity. I wish for humans would be able to live long and healthy. I wish for those who feel guilty or ashamed of themselves to be able to find redemption and be able to accept themselves for what they are, and also to have faith in themselves. I wish for those who have done wrong to be able to seek forgiveness and build better lives. I wish for those who are addicted to be able to achieve sobriety. I wish for those with money problems to be able to solve them eventually. I wish for any whose addiction is crippling, to be able to find rehabilitation. I wish more children to be able to be raised in happy, caring environments and have happy childhoods as well as adulthoods later on. I wish for the lonely to either find company that suits them or be able to overcome their own loneliness by their own power . I wish for hard working people to be able to reach the retirement they want to reach after years of labour. I wish for those who are already retired to find meaningful activities that bring them satisfaction, and to not fear the inevitability of death. There is much left to do in this hard, corrupt and unjust world to rectify it. I hope my wishes will turn true at least for some people. Thanks for reading.

(The Subcategory Directory: The Trophy Dilemma -- How Rewards Kill Potential ( philosocom.com ) How Philosophizing Gave Me Hope ( philosocom.com ) Hope In Despair -- How It Could Be Found (Poem) ( philosocom.com ) The 7th of December Wish -- How I Retain Hope In Loneliness ( philosocom.com ) The Puppet Philosopher (Poem) ( philosocom.com ) Existence, Necessity and Potential -- The Bodybuilder Argument/Fallacy and How To Understand Potential ( philosocom.com ) Revolutionary Potential -- How it Affects Societies Across the World ( philosocom.com ) The Potential Purposes of Solitude ( philosocom.com ) The Fault of Unnecessary Dependence -- How to Nurture our Inner Potential ( philosocom.com ) Of Beast, Men and Philosophizing -- A Potentially "Hidden Logic" ( philosocom.com ) Curse of the Writer's Factory (Poem) ( philosocom.com ) How To Turn Anything into a Desired Opportunity (Or At Least Try) -- The Philosophy of Subversion ( philosocom.com ) The Universal Businessman -- Life As a Business Opportunity ( philosocom.com ) https://www.philosocom.com/post/elementary-to-me-poem https://www.philosocom.com/post/the-secret-plans-path-to-a-ruthless-self https://www.philosocom.com/post/woman-s-tale https://www.philosocom.com/post/mad-genius https://www.philosocom.com/post/salvation https://www.philosocom.com/post/things-i-wish ) Summary by Mr. Chris Kingsley and Mr. Joseph Bright The article "How Potential Can Lead to Hope" delves into the relationship between human potential, awareness, and hope , offering a profound perspective on how recognizing and cultivating our potential can foster a more hopeful and fulfilling life. The introduction hooks the reader's interest by referencing a conversation with a reader and presenting a philosophy of awareness. The article emphasizes the importance of awareness in personal growth and potential, emphasizing that awareness is a continuous, lifelong process. The article provides practical advice on using potential to feel better about being alive, such as seeing possibility as a spark, using hope as an energy source, embracing the power of "maybe," and recognizing unique potential. The article's strengths include its thought-provoking introduction, emphasis on awareness, use of personal reflections, connection between potential and hope, practical advice , balanced perspective on innovation, and areas for improvement. Mr Tomasio's journey journey in improving his writing through increased awareness serves as a tangible example of the core message. The personal reflections and practical advice contribute to its motivational tone.   (Background music) Introduction In a past, I had a (now renovated) conversation with an anonymous reader sparked a thought-provoking discussion about relevance and the human potential. The reader, who also volunteers to Philosocom , presented a philosophy that placed a high premium on awareness, elevating it above many aspects traditionally deemed essential in life. This resonated deeply with me, and I'd like to share my own input of the discussion, and elaborate further on my findings for you. *********************** My Renovated Input On Awareness and Understanding " In my view, awareness transcends fleeting moments of recognizing automatic behavior. It's a continuous, lifelong process. It's a metaphysical-like essence that breathes life into us and into this world, for its benefit and for its oppression. It is the very force that fuels our desire to live and to achieve. For we cannot develop further in life without the ability to be aware. We cannot know what we're truly capable of, and act or not act upon it, if we have no awareness of our selves' true qualities and liabilities. With this newfound understanding, I believe I grasp the essence behind your rationale. We are all, in a sense, "messiahs," sent here to fulfill the potential that dwells within each of us, AKA, for World Rectification . This potential exists as a universal human birth-right, with the right being acting upon it, and reaping the rewards that follow, or suffer the consequences of our thoughtless stupidity. Through our actions, each individual can leave a print on the world, increasing the chance of their own brand of relevance as life unfolds, increasing various risks throughout their usage of time . This reveals the critical role of awareness, particularly the awareness of the intricate interplay between potential, time, and action. For the more time we have, the greater the opportunity we have, to cultivate our potential with a swordsman's technique , or ruin it, with our impulsivity. This very awareness, I believe, is the source of the joy you express in your words... The notion that a grander self exists beyond the mundane, yet already resides within us all. We simply need to awaken to its presence. I see this principle reflected in my own writing. Over time, my articles have demonstrably improved, or so I believe. They have grown in length, clarity, and insight. And it couldn't have been done if my awareness of the world and of myself hasn't been increased. It is necessary personally, as it is professionally. This is merely a testament to the inborn drive for betterment that theoretically resides within each of us, with the exception of fearless nihilists and anti-work klumniks. However, while achieving absolute perfection may remain elusive as it requires much mastery , time grants us the privilege of inching closer to that possibility. Indeed, the issue of relevance loses its irrational anxiety when we realize that, potential's fruition is rarely a overnight success. For such success is often a myth. The key lies in recognizing and unleashing this inherent potential within us all, in a way that shall not be shot in our foot. This very awareness, I believe, is the source of the joy you express in your words, Mr. Leblanc. We simply need to awaken to its presence through the synergy of self-discovery and a mature approach to life. This age of modernity extends this potential greatly, regardless of people's poor ability to criticize its flaws. I don't know if that individual potential is infinite, but with advances in technology, information, and global communication -- that potential is truly wide beyond day-to-day comprehension. " Examination of Innovation's Power Look at your life as it is now, whatever it is, whoever you are, and whenever you are. With access to the world, to the English language , and so on -- these aspects could lead to many possibilities, otherwise locked away in your distant ancestors' minds. For in the days of the pre- industrial revolution , the extent of your potential was far limited, unless you had a powerbase and/ or were rich. Life, as it is now, does not have to be the way it is currently. As orderly and usual as over the course of history, which has been Agrarian for roughly ten thousand years, all it took for it to end were series of successful-enough innovations, capable of transforming humanity and Earth permanently. That is despite the many, many failures that went along the way. From the K-Class British submarines of WW1 to the decline of blimp airship transportation , not all innovation that glitters is truly gold. This leads to the reasoning behind the novelty fallacy. Therefore, a hope for a better world doesn't equal much, and even deters of our ambitions, if we refuse to examine our philosophy. Your knowledge, your opportunities, and your interpersonal circles -- all can change in an instant, or in a series of instances. That's what makes life full of potential. But potential is like a dog, and greater clarity is like a leash. Use this "leash" in a way that will not choke the dog on the one hand, but won't make it get run over by a car. Treat your potential therefore like you'd treat a dog or a cat -- with dedication and protection. Trust your potential but try to work on yourself until you'll trust your responsibility on it. Don't become a drug lord just because you're an effective leader and desire power. Examine with a critical eye, with logic. Don't get swayed away with what you're capable of. How to Use Potential To Feel Better About Being Alive Focusing on potential can be a powerful tool to feel more alive and hopeful, even in the face of challenges. Here's how we can expand on this idea further in order to better endure existence: 1. Possibility as a Spark Life can feel overwhelmingly fixed sometimes. Jobs, relationships, even our own personalities seem set in stone, leading to the difficulties of monotony. But the beauty of potential is that it reminds us that everything is constantly in flux. We have the ability to learn, grow, and change . When the self is too flawed, it deserves to be changed and improved per what it does in life. Embracing our flaws without a critical eye, can deter possibilities to ignite our sense of agency and excitement for the future. 2. Hope as An Energy Source Religious views may portray hope as a passive state, waiting for good things to happen through divine grace and prayer. But, by focusing on potential, and working towards its realization, we see hope as an active process. A process capable of making us live better despite bad luck. We can plant the seed of possibility by actively nurturing our strengths and interests. As we take small steps towards realizing that potential, hope can convert itself into a driving force for our training , discipline and better conduct with people. 3. The Power of "Maybe" Potential thrives on "maybe." "Maybe" I can learn a new skill, "maybe" I can connect with someone new, maybe I can find a way to feel content right now. Embracing these "maybes" opens doors to a world of possibilities, and realize that we don't always have to realize certain potentials if we don't want/need to. 4. Your Potential is Unique What ignites your curiosity? What challenges you in a "looking-forward-for-it" kind of way? Focusing on your own unique path is key to unlocking your full potential, and also allows you to stay away from other, more stressful paths. Furthermore, you can use your potential to understand what kind of people are good for you. Those who undermine your potential might not be worth your time, compared to those who seek to enjoy and cherish it. Extra Advice: Life is often filled with empty promises. Instead of depending yourself too much on others' promises, try to see life as this journey of exploration and growth. You can grow yourself to the point of promises not being as necessary or disappointing. Your potential is a wellspring of hope, waiting to be unleashed through training and application. Focus on the realistic possibilities by taking small steps towards your goals. Try not to overexert yourself. Go along with life's currents if you're unable to alter them without great risk. Consider the Tao philosophy to balance between work and health. After all, you need a certain degree of health to effectively work towards success.

(Background music) (Philosocom's Subcategory on Revenge) (Philosocom's Subcategory Directory on Dilemmas and Problems) Why Wanting Payback Holds You Back The desire for vengeance after being wronged is a powerful emotion... a natural evil, if you will . It's tempting to believe that getting even will bring closure and satisfaction. But the reality is, clinging to revenge can be a self-defeating cycle. Here's why: The Unattained Justice:  The world isn't always fair, even (or especially) in modern times. People may escape consequences, leaving you feeling depraved of a deserved outcome. This can nurture resentment, keeping the wound open and fueling the fire of revenge, although you can't really do anything anymore. Lost in Anger:    Focusing on revenge fuels anger, a powerful emotion that can cloud judgement and lead to quick but regrettable decisions. You might take actions that have negative repercussions, harming yourself or others in the process. To quote Confucius: " Before you embark on a journey of revenge, dig two graves". Boost your plans' motivation using emotions like rage , but never let your planning be guided by mere emotion. Imprisoned in the Past:  Dwelling on the wrong done to you keeps you trapped in the past. Greater practicality and growth come from learning from the past to build a better future. Revenge keeps you chained to the perpetrator and the event, instead of using the event as a teacher for a more-peaceful life. The Cycle Continues:   Even if you successfully exact your revenge, it rarely brings lasting satisfaction. Some may even claim it can feel worse after it's done. Revenge might even escalate the situation, leading to further conflict and negativity, where at least two factions keep on a rivalry avoided by letting go. Thus, revenge often breeds revenge, creating a destructive cycle of misery. Case Example 1: The Psychologist Unfortunately, my experience with a psychologist left me feeling misunderstood and frustrated. During a single meeting, he dismissed my anxiety as a "shallow existence of thought." When I read his report, even someone who knew me well disagreed with this assessment. It felt like a betrayal of trust to be judged based on a brief encounter, especially after I shared details like having a website. This is evidence for "The Whole Person" fallacy. It seemed clear his goal was a quick prescription, not a genuine understanding. His dismissal indicates a disturbing possibility: Some professionals may treat people like cases to be "solved" and then discarded , not individuals. Some may alienate patients with superficial judgments, quickly submitting to their own confirmation bias, overlooking the depths of human emotions and the complexity of our inner lives. Surely anxiety doesn't equate to shallowness? Emotions fluctuate with situations; it's human nature, with all of its flaws. While I can't change the past or confront this psychologist, his report doesn't define me. As a child I might have been shallow-minded. These days are over. Moving forward, I choose not to dwell on this negativity. This experience won't deter me from seeking help when needed, but it reminds me to find a therapist who cultivates trust and truly listens in order to learn. That, you see, is one of the cases where nothing can be done, as the case has been closed long ago. The only "sin" on my part is being with the wrong people at the wrong time, AKA time bias. It's why I only leave my house when needed to, because "regular" people don't really understand the value of patience in relationships . I'm keeping this vague for a reason. My physical isolation is a great relief. It's a defense mechanism I've developed from those who just don't know how to solve conflicts peacefully . However, I know complete withdrawal isn't healthy either. There must  be a way to connect with others who can understand and empathize; people who worked hard enough on themselves, that their hearts are more open to compassion, not condemnation. Even if I remembered his name and face, I don't see why I should be vengeful toward someone who doesn't understand G.A.D . It's a fact that people's personalities are best assessed over the course of more than one meeting. Research claims it takes around two years. Why Redemption Trumps Revenge The charm of absolute power is undeniable, as seen in power fantasies. Dictators, with their vast resources – armed forces , secret police, spies – can exact retribution with terrifying ease. However, their direct control often has limited reach beyond their borders, often resorting to indirect influence (like sending military support to strengthen relations ) . We, the ordinary people, lack such tools. We can't orchestrate disappearances, kidnappings, or assassinations, without being regarded as criminals having to lie low . However, what we do have is the power to reclaim our own narrative. We can redeem our name, rebuild self-respect, and repair our reputation whenever we were wronged. Self-renewal might seem underwhelming when compared to grand displays of punishment, but it is morally better than oppressing them or outright ruining their lives. Here's a possible truth: When the person who wronged you is gone, and might never even return. Keeping this in mind, the desire for revenge can fade. Eventually, it can decrease in weight unless there's a deep emotional connection or a particularly heinous act that demands acknowledgement, like the murder of a dear one. By choosing redemption over revenge, you take back control from your emotions. You have the opportunity to reclaim the power to define your own story otherwise and move forward with dignity and maturity. Case Example 2: A Shadow From the Past The thing with Ms. Chen is different to the sensitive mind. She justified her abandonment of me by saying that I'm irrelevant, and we knew each other for around 8 years. I showed her Philosocom once, only to be told that she does not understand what is written. She didn't know anything, and did not even respond when I, back then, gave her a book I wrote as a gift. Looking back, she really treated me like trash and even sacrificed me for showing emotion. To be humiliated like that, all because I simply expressed how I felt, is something I very much struggle to forgive and to carry on. That's because I hate masking , and prefer honesty over acting. I chose to be a philosopher because I have deep respect for the truth, and would sacrifice much in my quest for it. She knew me better than that professional. Even though she wasn't as educated as him, she at least knew me better. Nonetheless, she had the audacity to treat me awfully, using my feelings as an excuse on not working on her self. He or she who improves themselves can contain other people better, especially when they are distressed. I'd prefer accepting people's right to feel, instead, and continue staying strong for that end. Do you see another difference between these two examples? The doctor didn't seem to have the courage to tell me what he thinks of me face-to-face; he instead wrote it in a note for other professionals to read. True strength however lies in telling one's thoughts directly. It's why being a philosopher is a social risk. ...Getting revenge on either, will not help me promote the change I want to see in the world. Importance As But a Tool I will therefore fight for my relevance, in the eyes of the world, which is a far more worthy audience. My relevance on the world stage, that's the battle I now wage, the race I will resume participating as long as I can! Without it, what purpose remains beyond the act of writing itself? What else I've to live for, in this reality I experience as horribly devoid and painful? When you worked on yourself enough, you wouldn't want revenge as much as altruism. Then, the ego's relevance wouldn't become the end of your means. Instead, it will be available as the engine of your ambitions. Article Feedback by Mr. M. Svartgold Tomasio's insight regarding revenge is crucial: it breeds resentment and cunning in the person who endured adversity. A man who discovers his wife's infidelity might impulsively murder her. While boundaries are essential, they should be balanced with compassion. Unfortunately, revenge often leaves the emotionally vulnerable in the past, hurting them further. The past can will hurt such people because they can feel lonelier than those who embrace evil and take it for granted. Anxiety, arises from a lack of understanding about the complexity of human nature. Being misunderstood can make you grow dark. This can lead to neglect, rejection, and toxic relationships. I've personally experienced this. Many people prioritize their own needs over respecting boundaries and taking responsibility. Basically, this infantile behavior has been normalized. This has caused me to withdraw voluntarily and become less hopeful. As a result, I've often preferred solitude and taken advantage of my free time. This leads others to believe I have a mental health problem and immediately treat me as prey, so of course I would try becoming introverted for the sake of my health like Mr. Tomasio does.  I'm trying to connect with others, but I'm afraid of being hurt again and wasting years on people who will make me evil and corrupt as well. My self-esteem has suffered as I've observed people's competitive and self-serving behaviors. They always wanted to have the last word (revenge is about this, basically).   I often find it necessary to remain silent to avoid conflict, which leads to revenge.  Many people are unwilling to grow up mentally. Philosophy can be dangerous because it challenges the status quo, making it a social risk for people to philosophize. Those who oppose the truth may try to silence or marginalize you. If you have a different perspective, you may be ostracized and find yourself alone even within the company of others. Alone and in guilt and shame for your own honesty. This can create strife and conflict between people for certainty, leading to a vengeful mindset for either parties involved. However, I personally believe no one has the right to judge another person's worth. Unfortunately, this is often done, under the guise of justice. However, a person who loves themselves is also capable of empathy, a quality that is often undervalued. Revenge deprives us of empathy, yet people need empathy for their wellbeing. Judge their worth and you will paradoxically discard their worth. See yourself as superior to them and you will be more biased towards revenge. It's quite avoidable if you choose a more pro-equality perception on society.

(Disclaimer: The guest posts do not necessarily align with Philosocom's manager, Mr. Tomasio Rubinshtein's beliefs, thoughts, or feelings. The point of guest posts is to allow a wide range of narratives from a wide range of people. To apply for a guest post of your own, please send your request to mrtomasio@philosocom.com ) (Subcategory on Emotions) (Nathan Lasher's Articles) (Background music) Table of Contents Article Outline (By Mr. Tomasio Rubinshtein) "Mania Made Me" (By Mr. Nathan Lasher) Conclusion (By Mr. Tomasio Rubinshtein) Part I: Article Outline Key Themes and Arguments Mr. Nathan Lasher's article explores the relationship between genius , mental illness, and bipolar disorder, drawing from the author's personal experiences with unipolar mania. Several key themes emerge: The Complexities of Bipolar Disorder :  N. Lasher challenges the traditional understanding of bipolar disorder, arguing for the inclusion of hyperthymia and unipolar mania as distinct diagnoses. He emphasizes the importance of individualizing treatment approaches based on the specific manifestations of the disorder. The Role of Emotions in Mania :  Emotions are central to the author's understanding of mania. He suggests that mania is essentially an amplification of emotions, and therefore, managing emotions is crucial for controlling manic episodes. The Potential Benefits of Mania :  The author suggests that mania can have positive aspects, such as heightened creativity and intellectual giftedness. He believes that harnessing these qualities can lead to significant achievements, capable of helping this world. The Importance of Intelligence and Human Capital :  N. Lasher's article highlights the role of intelligence in understanding and navigating the complexities of life. Additionally, he emphasizes the value of human capital, defined as the sum of one's skills , experiences, and the ability to learn and adapt accordingly to reality. Part II: The Article, "Mania Made Me" Introduction I don’t refer to mania made me in any criminal defense kind of way. What I mean is it has literally shaped the person I am today . I have bi-polar disorder, but only in a rare expression kind of way. Unipolar mania primarily expressed as hyperthymia... means I cycle the lower ranges of mania which results in nothing more than my temperament being altered. This project's purpose is to theorize the relationship between genius and mental illness but more specifically bi-polar. Genius characteristics include racing thoughts and thinking big. Wouldn’t it be fair to assume that geniuses have access to mania, yet possess the proper cognitive features to process it? Perhaps, that is with bi-polar being the result of not inheriting those proper cognitive features. Looking Both Ways On Emotions Mania can be responsible for great and terrible things at the same time. In my opinion it all comes down to the person’s true nature being revealed when they are exposed to mania. In my particular case, I was raised in a Christian household so good morals were given to me at a young age. Theology aside, I find religion to be a huge joke. Does it really matter who is right about where we come from or what happens after we die or what will happen at the end of the world? Due to intelligence's rarity, human nature keeps us bound to our primal instincts, which result in us being our own worst enemies. How many of the world’s conflicts are a result of humans being too emotional by nature? More specifically, it is problematic as to how quickly emotions can cause humans to react. Emotions were meant to increase the quality of life, so, why do so many let anger or sadness dictate their response to things? It's as if the emotion creates an effective mental state reality of its own where a particular emotion is seen as a real thing. The N. Lasherian Approach to Mania So before continuing I would like to state for the objective record an objective vantage of what mania really is. Nothing more than the amplification of our emotions. On the one hand, who wouldn’t like to experience emotions more intensely? As my emotional quotient has my emotions in almost complete control all that bi-polar can impact is my temperament .  It is this realization that makes me believe hyperthymia and unipolar mania are definable things which should be included in the DSM manuals . My opinion on the matter is that they should be defined in the manual’s as a diagnosable thing but not a mental illness. Esoteric Mania Reflections -- A Hidden Corner What I have is not bi-polar per say but a closely related cousin. Due to these terms not being in the manuals, doctors don’t have a clue about the characteristics of it. I merely believe I wouldn’t have had to spend over a year of self diagnosing when having it as part of the DSM manuals would have made diagnosing so much easier. In terms of treatment I believe the proper course of action is in making individuals afflicted with such things, understand their condition fully. It also makes me realize I could play a vital part in bi-polar research as I can act as mania research without risking triggering an episode or depression. Thanks to my baseline being a few notches past neutral I primarily exist in a mild mania state but as it is a causality of bi-polar it’s obvious that the mania possesses the ability to go higher. For relativity’s sake I feel my mania in higher levels falls somewhere south of cyclothymic mania . Within The Core of the Social Theatre A few disclosures about my experience with mania has to do with masking and how mania is expressed in lower levels. As mania’s start within the body is the same regardless of the destination level shouldn’t mild constant mania be the focus of research? I mean regardless of mania level doesn’t it all start the same within the body.  My reasoning for stating this is a rather useful masking technique I’ve unknowingly developed over the last 36 years. When mania can be heard in my voice I am able to settle it down and make it go away. A technique I learned in cross country 20 years ago is focused on calming your heart rate and breathing. To me mania feels along the lines of when you're out in the sun all day and later that night your skin feels like it is radiating heat. That is what mania feels like to me. When I calm my breathing down that warm little feeling returns to the place from which it comes, the heart. Emotions and the Heart -- An Unexpected Theory Applying this realization to a few other polymathic thoughts, I theorize mania is a heart condition which is the result of too many neurotransmitters in your blood system.  I'm not a doctor or scientist so my understanding of physiology and psychology is limited to a few courses back in college. However, would this not be a way to explain mixed episodes? What if the neurotransmitters for mania and depression were released into our blood at the same time? The Value of Researching Eccentric Minds I believe I have dreamt up a way to monetize being me. Just me working on this project has real value in bi-polar research. My keeping my mania from fully exploding and resulting in emotional burnout could be priceless information on how it might help other people. Riding out an emotion instead of letting it consume me is what gives me another idea on suggestions for bi-polar management. Instead of trying to stop the mania, doctors should focus on getting it into a manageable level which you can use to understand the mania better. With more control over your emotions all bi-polar can do, as I mentioned, is alter your temperament.  My life has many experiences so I pretty much have 36 years of bi-polar research tucked away inside my head. I’m not sure what kind of research it is when you want to study yourself. I’m not sure if clinical applies to me as I don’t need to observe other people to understand something. Regarding The World of the Intellect Now, This next part did have its place in me understanding bi-polar more. I realize now that my insights are what might advance bi-polar research years. I possess a pretty great level of intelligence. Not caring about it in any superiority kind of way but rather in awe. I want to use it to do some really cool stuff. To me, intelligence is a thing which people have never really learned to understand.  Intelligence is nothing more than a characteristic of the conscious mind or soul . The thing which gives us life and tells our bodies how to properly function via the subconscious minds' network. Intelligence is that thing which makes the body work properly using nothing more than the innate characteristics of our bodies. Those processes which are a part of our genetic code such as what tells our bodies to breath and the heart to pump blood. It would take an innate degree of intelligence for your body to know to do everything it is supposed to. Furthermore, intelligence is our innate ability to understand. It is what lets us learn and apply what we learn to our lives. Your intelligence determines the degree with which you can understand things. Look at doctors for instance. They would have to possess some higher degree of intelligence to understand something as complex as the human body and mind. Why Humanity is Limited by Default Regardless I find myself at a standstill because I’ve been trying to find a person as intellectually gifted as I am. Even my psychiatrist's intelligence is limited by his education. Through happenstance I’ve gained the ability to sense and discern intelligence making it really entertaining to come across individuals who are pseudo intellectuals who came across as prideful. It is clear to me that people’s intelligence limit their ability to grasp certain things. Their thinking is limited to what they read in a book. The world’s intelligence is the result of nothing more than passing around the same genetics.  Not trying to sound like a dictator or egomaniacal person... but it has been proven that intelligence is attributed to genetics . If you take one average individual and they procreate with another average individual then odds are they will have a child with average intellectual genetics. Intelligence is what allows you to maximize your experience of things. Excessiveness Versus Moderation Moving along to circle back to mania. Heightened emotions can lead to heightened physiological features. Alertness and your brain firing faster than normal. I believe the cure to bi-polar falls in controlling your emotions. Mania can’t lead to episodes when you control how much emotion you feel. Importance of self awareness and dealing with things which stir up emotions. Emotions should not control us but rather be something we use to our advantage. Controlling the amount of mania you feel is nothing more than controlling the amount of emotion that you feel. To my original point about mania made me. I cycle between hyperthymia and euthymia (Normal state). Realizing that emotions are what causes mania to increase it only seems logical to me that mania is the result of too many neurotransmitters (emotional chemicals in the brain and blood) being released.  You realize a great lesson when you assess how mania behaves in smaller levels. Not only the ability to understand its origin but in that depression’s level is determined by the amount of mania you feel. A negative correlation. You went 6/10 into mania so you will go 6/10 into depression as it is your body's way of trying to balance out. That and it gets to the point where your body has produced too many neurotransmitters and the opposite of it will happen to try and balance itself out and return to normal. Being in this euphoric state the mania will still occasionally stir which due to my body not being in mania can come across as discomfort or irritability. So, typically, my projects remain incomplete as it is about this point where ADHD/mania burnout occurs. I’m working on a system to avoid this. Mania As But A Tool The too far ahead part is part of the burnout. Why do I want to do the tedious task of doing nothing but putting down what I’ve already gone over in my mind? So, we use this time to learn how to best utilize the mania.  Mania can lead to your brain performing at a higher level due to increases in chemical levels. In simple terms it is like your body is performing at a higher level because of them. Increases in neural activity resulting in racing thoughts . I stopped trying to keep up with them but enjoyed the instantaneousness of my thoughts. Find yourself an activity that brings about mild emotions . If you can’t think of anything, all you have to do is pick an object and apply an emotion to it by thinking about what it means to you. This mild emotional technique will let you learn to handle mania at smaller levels. It is also realizing this that you see mania is the same in smaller amounts as it is in larger. During a manic episode you are literally too emotional. This is the problem with bi-polar thoughts during them. It isn’t that they are good ideas. It’s this justified grandiosity that makes me realize what the actual danger is during times of mania. It is literally feeling good about a thought. When you feel good about something you are more inclined to do it. Control the impulsivity and apply this time towards creative projects. Nobody said you needed to stop what’s a part of your genetics. What you need to do is learn to understand it and use it to your advantage. Those great ideas should be compiled into a file for potential future projects. Bi-polar possesses the ability to get you to think about things differently. The problem with this is the impulsivity that accompanies it. If you can resist doing things while dealing with too much mania. Try using the time in your life to get creative with thoughts. Start by thinking about a part of your life and ways you could perform them better.  A Guide For The Bi-Polar My point here is you should use the time to create content and use your euthymic times to actually plan out how you can make it happen. Doing this you will also want to confide in a close personal friend or family member. Utilize them to determine the value of your ideas. See if they are a good idea to someone else. In the causality of my life, in terms of genetics, I find that mania might have made me but in understanding the existence of my genetics I can learn to use them to my own advantage. So, my advice is to make a list of problems or tasks and next time you have those creative good ideas. Use that time to think about your list. You never know what solutions you might come up with which end up being a good idea.  Mania and the Power of Change and Influence Mania has created a very rare unique situation in which I determine my future . Projecting what else it has made me find that I’m a natural born spy. Due to my temperament shifting I never developed just one personality of my own. Like multiple personalities, from shifting temperaments, except they are more like costumes in a changing room which I can choose from to meet whatever my needs are. Due to my personality changing so much from the emotional complexity of puberty, and a super early onset of mania, I take ambiversion to a whole new level. When you discover that your personality can be used to control other people you have an awareness that with great power comes great responsibility . If not for my upbringing, accompanied by some brain injuries, I find myself torn as to how to feel about this... Wishes For the Future Even that was south of hypomanic but high relative to what it normally is. It is this that makes me think there might be value to the typical expression it has. If anything, due to not dealing with depression, I find myself thinking I might make a good guinea pig in determining better ways to deal with mania.  I also futuristically want to develop customized help plans for people on how they might better deal with their own mania. To not get rid of the mania all together but put it at a more manageable level is the secret I believe. In a manageable level that you can use to your advantage. Mania is nothing more than another tool my brain can use and I’m in the research phase of putting it to productive uses.  Conclusion by Mr. Tomasio Rubinshtein "Mania Made Me" offers a unique perspective on bipolar disorder. Lasher's piece highlights the complexities of the condition and the potential for personal growth and success , not despite the disorder, but with its usage. Although further research might be needed to confirm Mr. Lasher's claims, his insights can contribute to a broader understanding of mental illness, as more than just a burden, and inspire innovative approaches to treatment and survival in this world. Also, the article teaches us that we can turn a liability into an asset.

(Philosocom's Subcategory Directory on Dilemmas and Problems) (Philosocom's Disability Directory) Alex Mos's Synopsis The audience often ignores the potential disabilities of content creators. The followers evaluate content using universal standards, disregarding challenges faced by disabled content creators, such as chronic fatigue syndrome , silent asthma , or adult ADHD. Many of the difficulties encountered by people with disabilities could be alleviated by increased accessibility and a greater understanding of their struggle. The author, who is on the autism spectrum, withdrew from society due to his hidden disabilities being frequently overlooked and ignored by others. Universal standards are absurd because humans and their experiences are diverse. People who deviate from the expected standards are often judged as inadequate despite their potential. Some disabilities don't limit skills or high intelligence, but can be hidden and require special accommodations. The author wrote, renovated, and edited countless philosophical articles despite limitations. We should move beyond rigid standards and embrace the diversity of experiences, including those of people with disabilities. We need to raise awareness about hidden disabilities and put an end to unjust discrimination against disabled individuals.  When interacting with a disabled person, it's essential to prioritize inclusion and show respect. See the person first, respect their independence, and make the world accessible for disabled people everywhere.  (Background music) The Hidden Struggles of Content Creation When it comes to work, including this very site, the problem with standards is not necessarily with the the people doing as best as they can, but with others who are not aware of the hidden aspects of their lives. Of course, this assumes that some people really do try to deliver the best result they can... Which is less than 10 percent of employees, according to Forbes . Why can't some of them have a disability, by the way? Despite the fact that only less than a quarter of the disabled (According to Fast Company)? Imagine a disabled content creator. Their disability may prevent them from reaching the same output or speed as an "average" person, as disability can hinder work. Yet, readers, followers, and customers might ignore or disregard these personal difficulties because they hold all workers and content creators to a universal standard. Hence why my philosophy on it is very ruthless, too , highlighting the increased, often unnecessary adversity disabled people need to endure. And whereas people choose to be intimidated by struggle, we can, even as disabled, confront them head on, gaining an opportunity at honing our spirit for greater strength! Regardless, this universality of standards breeds unfair expectations that not anyone has enough determination to overcome. Imagine a content creator facing condemnation for not complying with standard content creation, simply because they have a disability or any other challenge that makes meeting average demands difficult: People with chronic fatigue syndrome may struggle with content demand, and some could be too exhausted to even read without difficulty. People with silent asthma, like myself, may have difficulty communicating vocally. That is even though nowadays people prefer videos over writing , and human voice, over AI text to speech. Adult ADHD is known to decrease overall productivity and increased stress levels. However, why is the content provider expected to be at a disadvantage because of something beyond their control? Much of disability has to do with lack of accessibility. Increase relevance accessibility, and you can make some people's lives a lot more sufferable! According to the Social Model of Disability (Ulster University): It is society or the environment that is disabling the individual rather than their impairment or difference. For example, videos without subtitles disadvantage anyone watching in a noisy environment, but they disadvantage deaf people all the time. [For example] by raising awareness of the key barriers to information access and tackling these barriers at source, the [Ulster] University will make great progress in developing a fluid and accessible information landscape where information is accessible to all. If the social model of disability is correct, shouldn't standards be adaptable to individual circumstances? Shouldn't we value the quality of work over, and understand that some people struggle more than others? Understanding Stephen Hawking's quote is important for this article: “Disability need not be an obstacle to success” By acknowledging the unseen struggles faced by content creators, we can move towards a more inclusive and understanding online experience. This can apply to any work, and even outside the professional world. This benefits everyone: Creators and workers who can focus on their strengths, and audiences and other consumers who gain access to diverse, high-quality content/services. Why Disability Shouldn't Limit Your Voice People do not choose to be born with or to acquire any disability or disadvantage throughout their lives. Likewise, people do not get injured for the intention of becoming acquired savants. Yet, disabled people get unnecessary hindrances and "glass ceilings" in their way, despite their potential. To quote a COBSinsights article: Disabled people face a significant and enduring disadvantage in the labour market. They are over-represented in low-skilled and low-status jobs, are more likely to work in jobs for which they are overqualified, and have poorer access to career progression and training opportunities. They also report lower work-related wellbeing and lower job satisfaction than their non-disabled counterparts. This dismissal across organizations, unnecessarily ignores the unseen struggles faced by many, particularly those with hidden disabilities. As a writer with on the autism spectrum I understand this frustration intimately. Being a bit "lighter" on the spectrum, I act almost entirely like a neurotypical as my education instructed me. However, my "neurotypical" behavior can contribute to people's confirmation bias, decreasing success of them understanding my hatred for most human sounds and my partial face blindness. The response to such limitations can be disheartening, as well as tiring. I largely abstain from physical society because I've no desire to lecture people with basic info they can research themselves. Explaining my disability to justify falling short of perceived standards is a frustrating burden, and I derive no joy from it. It shouldn't be my job to constantly educate people about the invisible spectrum of disability . Blindness or wheelchairs are not the only qualifiers for one to be disabled in some way. Many seemingly "normal" individuals face similar challenges. This insistence on universal standards is absurd, because it's like expecting all birds to fly, only to scold at the penguins. Humans and their experiences are diverse, and so are their uses. Furthermore, communication limitations don't equate to bad writing, just like physical limitations don't make one a bad walker. As long as you communicate to an effective degree, and manage to reach your destination on time, there shouldn't be much problems, even if you may require the relevant "crutches" for each task. The root of the problem is the "one size fits all" mentality. Anyone who deviates from the expected standard can be judged as inadequate, unless they are deemed privileged, and therefore exempt. Hardships and disabilities are ignored or dismissed using the strawman's fallacy. The binary of social perception, then, becomes "normal/excellent" vs. "normal/awful." Let's consider the possibility that unseen limitations might prevent someone from meeting expectations, despite the skill, or even genius, that they have. Obviously, these limitations don't necessarily imply a lack of skill or intelligence, but rather hidden disabilities or special needs. When they are relevant to their struggle, they've no reason to be considered excuses. They may be "excuses" for bad behavior. They can be legitimate reasons for you to struggle climbing the stairs. Disability is a vast spectrum. It's estimated that around a billion of the global population is disabled , with population growth increasing its rate. Given that disability is not an active choice, and can come from genetics, condemnation should never be based on disability. That's regardless of how known or unknown it is in normative society. All it takes is a moment to consider the possibility of unseen factors beyond someone's control, and to inquire about it. Knowledge is power partly because it can help reduce agony. Developing a learning mindset could help break stigma and increase accessibility, saving much strife in the process, caused by ignorance. Despite limitations, I've written, renovated and edited countless articles, both by myself and by others. My journey, although shaped by disability, doesn't diminish the value I bring to the table. And in philosophy, it's the inclusion of ideas that matter, with people merely being their suppliers. Discard others for discriminatory reasons, ableism included, and you will hinder the productive exchange of ideas. Let's move beyond rigid standards and embrace the diverse voices and experiences that disabilities bring to the world -- both the offline and the online ones. I am genuinely exhausted from being blamed for things that are not my fault, such as being born with special needs. I understand the need to continuously improve, and as such I sacrificed much sleep to turn Philosocom more and more into the vision I have for it. The last thing I want to do is to use my disabilities as an excuse to not bring my readers the content I believe they deserve by coming here. Much of what need to be done is raise awareness of the "hidden" disabilities that exist in humanity. In return these unjust condemnations will hopefully stop over time, as we stop being so judgemental over things we actually know little about, or have more to learn. Bonus: Treat the Disabled Like Human Beings! When approaching a disabled person, the focus should be on inclusion and respect  rather than having a specific set of standards for people with disabilities. Here's a good approach: See the Person First:  Treat people with disabilities as individuals with unique strengths and needs, not defined by their disability. People are more than their disability, the same as they are more than their ethnicity or country of origin. Respect Independence:  Some people with disabilities want to be as independent as possible. Offer assistance when needed, but don't assume they can't do things themselves. Also, don't assume they don't want to be independent. Are you not sure if they require help? Simply ask them. Accessible Environment:   This applies everywhere - physical spaces, communication, and programs. Consider ramps, elevators, clear signage, and materials in multiple formats (large print, audio). In business, accessibility can not only help your own employees, but also help customers acquire your services. Investing in accessibility can increase profit in the long run, making it a financial potential for many companies. Mr. Nathan Lasher's Feedback Since when is having standards a negative thing? I mean I create them for people once I get to know them. I know what their potential is capable of. If someone isn’t living up to their own level of standards then that is where I see problems. I have first hand experience with pseudo intellectuals holding people to their own standards of how they think a job should be done. People who think they are super smart all because they are good at a relatively easy job: “If it is this easy for me it must be easy for other people" . The people who are good at simple jobs hold others to the standards that they should be good at as well. People hold other people to higher standards based upon how easy it is for them. Content creation need not be complicated. Really all it is, is recording experiences and getting what is in your head out into the world. Think about it. If your content can reach and change one person's life then it has done its purpose. Content creation is a form of information exchange. Don’t worry about bad feedback from individuals who aren’t in your target market. The naysayers who are criticizing content which wasn’t intended for them. Remember to ignore the negative people who aren’t giving quality reviews of things.  I don’t hold people to macro standards. I hold them to micro. Meaning I hold them to the standards I know they are capable of. I get a little surprised when I hear about someone, who I know can do better, struggling to complete certain tasks. Most of the time it isn’t because the task is hard. It usually has to do with them not understanding how to do it. So, I find it better to just live with this bias and remember not everyone is as gifted as savants, and as such, people generally don’t understand everything there is to understand. In the case where I have no idea, I have an attitude: “I have no idea yet let's figure this out!” The problem with universal standards is that they assume everyone is of equal intelligence and ability. Remember that life is diverse and involves knowing how to do a lot. Be more realistic with people and if you see them doing something wrong remember it is in an individual case and you happen to see them doing something they aren’t as familiar with. Even if it isn’t a successful attempt, remember the most important thing: The fact that they tried. Most people will scold people for their actions not being to the level of quality a person thinks they should be. They happen to catch them at times where they might be new to that particular thing. Where you must hold people to individual standards? Not everyone is going to be as good at something as you are, considering you have been doing it for way longer than that person.  You should never see yourself as disabled . All disabilities are roadblocks, meaning you have to try another way to complete the action. If you are in a wheelchair you might use a regular person to help you reach stuff on the top shelves of cabinets. A wheelchair might require you to start shelving things lower. All the disability did was make you find another way to do the same action.

Should we be more selfish or more altruistic? The answer as to why we should be more selfish is similar to why we should be altruistic. The first answer is because not everything revolves around others, so we matter too. And the second answer is because not everything revolves around ourselves, hence why other people matter as well as us. Therefore, because both answers are true, we should constantly juggle between self-interest and selflessness, because the universe, per se, does not revolve around any one entity, whether yourself or others. We all need to learn when it fits our plans to be egotistical, and when to lower it in favour of the environment. It is, in a way, a skill, a tactic that could become intuitive the more we practice it. In such cases, a " mistake " can be defined when we considered the " wrong " side of the interaction between the self and others. We can figure that out when our own choices hinder us in the conversation, or when our choices are counter-intuitive to our intention in said conversation. For example: We may put ourselves in higher priority to the point that the other side of the exchange may want to sever their ties with you, as they received the impression that you're a narcissist from all the self-interest you displayed. An opposite example: You're too altruistic for your own good that you've become a people pleaser . Then, connections that can be useful for you, may begin to use you for their own gain, with little to no regard for your own interest, as you lack the spine to assert your ego and resist their abuse of your good will. By being more selfish, we can prevent people from walking all over us, and by being more altruistic, we can prevent guilt from the possibility that we have mistreated and/or underestimated others. Therefore, there are times when we should be more selfish, and times when we should be more altruistic. There is no general way to know when each attitude is proper other than whatever helps your plans go in motion. As such, other than your ambitions, you'll have to " read the room " and figure out for yourself within each specific moment. As said, like with many abilities, from walking to playing a musical instrument, it can eventually be intuitive. You'll just have to experience interactions, and not be afraid of making mistakes . Use these mistakes to learn . I'd like to argue that every skill can eventually become automatic to a degree once you master it. It becomes part of something I would like to call, the minion self . The brain is a very adjustable organ. As such, you may understand when to consider yourself and others the more your brain learns this skill and wires itself in accordance. It's part of its neuroplasticity . So, don't worry so much if you do. Don't let your social anxiety stand in your way of your plans and ambitions. We need to cooperate for our interests to work. A good communication won't necessarily cut it. We need to prioritize self vs company in accordance to the situation at hand. And for that we need to have a strong grip on what is more important than otherwise. The objective existence of importance is why the Strawman Fallacy exists to begin with. For example, when interacting with someone you don't know on the internet, you should be more selfish, because that person might try to deceive you into paying them by telling you lies that will make you worry about them. Such occurrences have happened before, and as the saying, goes, " There's a sucker born every minute ". In this case, we should prioritize ourselves over them because in this case, the importance of not getting scammed is more important than the value of trust. We can thus see that importance has some kind of objectivity that does not depend on subjective perception . Here is another example of the opposite state. When taking care of a baby, you should put their needs over yours because they are way more dependent on the one responsible for them than you are on them. Since they need help in basic functioning, a functioning that you are not dependent on them in order to occur, then logic dictates that you should put their needs over yours. The being of "babyhood" gives them another importance in relation to you, a being of adulthood. Being more selfish and more altruistic doesn't have to be two things that contradict each other, by the way. With enough judgment, one can decide when to be more of the former and when to be more of the latter. It depends on whether or not you don't have something. One is egotistical because he lacks, and one is altruistic because they have something to give. The egoist may compensate for something he lacks, so he might be pompous as a result. The altruist can be modest simply because he or she do not have anything to compensate for. The egoist may look for love because they want to be loved, and the altruist may look for love because they have a need someone to love, more than be loved themselves. In love, submission is an altruistic act that gives one's partner something they want: trust and respect. Some people may feel compelled to be submissive because they want to give their partner the validation of loyalty, devotion and acceptance. The dominant may be such because they need to be empowered, and that can be done by taking charge. Having this mutual connection or deal means that one has to give something in return from the opposite side. It's how businesses work and why the state is also a business . Furthermore, I wouldn't say selfishness is evil . It can be used for good deeds as long as there is a personal gain, such as volunteering in exchange for a shout-out. It is called ethical/moral egoism , and that moral approach is always conditioned on the self to be benefitted from, eventually. Also, Altruism can ironically be used for bad intentions, such as when a fanatic sacrifices themselves in the name of religion or country. The Bushido Code , covered on Philosocom, was used to justify the existence of the Kamikaze pilots and the Salaryman philosophy , also covered on Philosocom. Since the self and others are both important, it should be okay to be egotistical as long as the egoist's deeds cause good in the world—and they definitely can. Because all and all, both moral approaches to our actions can be used for either good or evil. We need to make sure to appreciate consequentialism, and understand that there are times were the ends justify the means. As such, our philosophies can be just that.

The Directory https://www.philosocom.com/post/the-epicurean-smoker-exploring-hedonism https://www.philosocom.com/post/why-pure-joy-could-be-a-problem https://www.philosocom.com/post/the-absurdity-of-fun https://www.philosocom.com/post/why-the-truth-isn-t-always-interesting-the-bored-man-s-fallacy https://www.philosocom.com/post/philosophy-and-joy The pleasures of the flesh become ecstasies for the mind -- Mr. John Duran (Background music) Hedonism: A Critique Hedonism , the belief that the attainment of pleasure should be above all, lacks something essential for maintaining human civilization and its order: The consideration of other people's feelings, especially those who wish to either help or serve us. Hedonism is therefore problematic as a philosophy because it presents us with no other alternative to consider the existence of others. That is, other than the fact that they can either give us pleasure, unease, or nothing at all. In order to have compassion towards other human beings, we must be willing to participate in their suffering. This is what I also call the "fast food attitude": We mostly disregard the conditions of those who make our food, for we just care about having a good, tasty meal. So what if the delivery person almost collided with a tree on their way? So what if the workers at the fast food chain were too nervous they forgot a certain ingredient in your pizza or hamburger? In the end, for the hedonist, it is the product that counts, and not the wellbeing of others who made it for him/her, with pay or without. That is along with whether or not that product gives him/her the pleasure they seek. The same reasoning applies in what I call the contentist approach. This is also true, to be blunt, in online video games. It's a hobby that is filled with toxic communities that won't hesitate to tell you weirdly traumatic things if you did not play the way they wanted you to, because if you did, you would give them fun. The reality of such experiences is that the dignity of your fellow players is far more unimportant than the hedonist's zealotry towards having a good time with the game they play. In general, it seems that the pursuit of fun has become some sort of a "religion" for many people. Unlike our many ancestors, the value of joy has been put at a far higher priority than in any other time. Even when we work, we have many sources of pleasure that did not exist any time before the industrial and digital revolutions. It is no surprise, therefore, that some of us have become fun-seekers rather than depth-seekers or wealth-seekers. The possible reason for that being, that there is much to enjoy from, more than ever before. With our constant seeking of new and newer sources and content of fun, we basically feed a globally-entertaining industrial complex. It lives and prospers over our lack of satisfaction with what we already have. That, in itself, is not necessarily a bad thing. But it still doesn't answer the following question: why should one care about other people, if they do not bring one the fun they so desire? This "religion" could create a future where only the most entertaining shall prosper, while those who bore most would be cast aside. I guess you can call it a Hedocracy — a regime where only the most entertaining reign supreme. And indeed, dismissing someone or something because they are boring, is a fallacy of its on. You can also say that such "hedocracies" already exist, especially among younger audiences. As we lose patience, our attention span decreases as well, leading to the social and even financial prosperity of many content creators. People who know exactly what duration their content should be, what it should contain to keep the viewers from watching other content, and so on. This is why, logically, we could say that books are becoming more and more something that belongs to the past, as it is replaced by virtual content one can access without the need to pay or to go to the nearest library. Anyways, I have to mention that the shorter people's attention spans will be, the less successful sites such as this would be. That is because of the sad truth that, short-term spikes of joy are for most far more desired than a long-time reading whose worth will only come at the end of the piece. Perhaps we won't need to write anymore, as the interest in reading will significantly decrease over the consumption of videos , embedded with large words and background music made to catch your attention. Should we fail in giving the future generations a reason to enjoy extensive reading, then articles such as this, along with countless books , will be cast aside for content made to entertain more than to teach, educate, or make you contemplate. Of course, there are still those who read a lot, but when you are to ask a person of the far future, should they watch a video or read an article, the probable reply might be the latter, for it is usually much more entertaining than mere reading. Videos, after all, have music in them, and save us the effort required for reading. All we need to do is to listen — even when we can also do other activities while listening or watching said video. Because of all of these reasons, the mere pursuit of pleasure is often insufficient in justifying the existence or the worth of other things in our lives, which are more often than not, important by themselves. Thanks to this shift in perspective, those who have the time and education can find jobs that they truly enjoy. The suffering can justify the rewarding end. Furthermore, thanks to the help of liberty and secularism, some people at least don't have to fight against their families once they become adults, in the matters of profession, education, marriage, and bringing up a family. "Live and let live" is a very important saying nowadays, but it still does not answer this: If we can all live however we want, then what is the need for cooperation and caring for each other on a genuine level? With this great apathy to other people, there could be a great danger to our own morality, as if we're becoming "tribal" again; a step backwards in our sense of identity. In many countries, theoretically, being a fellow citizen of the same nation doesn't matter as much as it used to be when many people rebelled against imperialism and colonialism in favor of forming their own national identity as one, sovereign people. Look at your fellow countrymen or countrywomen: what do you feel towards them, just for having the same nationality as you? See what I mean? We are in an age of loneliness and alienation , and many of us just don't care when we can just enjoy ourselves. Who cares about participating in the struggles of those we care about, when feeling good feels far better? That, is the immorality of hedonism. If we wish, therefore, to preserve and improve human empathy and compassion, we must realize that fun, even if greatly rewarding, is insufficient for the preservation of a "humane" humanity. What kind of humanity do we want? One that cares for each other in distress, helps others without expecting anything in return, and asks children "what's wrong" and "why do they cry"? Hedonism by its very nature rejects feelings of unease and discomfort, even if they are caused by the suffering of others. It ignores the fact that these emotions deserve legitimacy because the desire to have a better time is a poor excuse to disregard our compassionate selves . I had to develop a neuroplastic method to murder much of my emotions, just to survive in such a hedonistic world. Conclusion Hedonism, therefore, while it can lead to a life of good wellbeing, couldn't care less for the good wellbeing of others. At least from a personal testimony, many people would prefer to "eat you alive" than considering the fact that you are an imperfect human being, like them. The constant ignoring of my condition, led me to conclude that my wellbeing is more important than their lack of "fun" while reading my articles. Wouldn't you do the same if you were as sensitive as I used to be? What distinguishes me and the hedonist, however, is my desire to contribute and not be totally invested in unproductive joy — hence why I resume writing. I decided to provide a link to a video showcasing a toxic online community. I'm not responsible for whether or not you'll click it.

(Philosocom's Directory of Choice and Decision) (Philosocom's Directory on Happiness) (Subcategory On Twisted Morality) (Background music) Article Synopsis by Ms. Gabbi Grace "The Power of the Granted -- Why I Choose to Be Unhappy" is a thought-provoking exploration of happiness and materialism , focusing on the concept of the "hedonic treadmill." Mr. Tomasio argues that the pursuit of material wealth and possessions often leads to fleeting satisfaction , urging readers to adopt a mindset of gratitude and appreciation for what they already have. This perspective is both insightful and relevant, offering a valuable counterpoint to the pervasive culture of consumerism. The article is structured coherently, with clear sections that guide the reader through the main arguments. The personal reflections and examples provided by Mr. Tomasio add depth to the discussion, making the theoretical concepts more relatable and engaging. The language is clear and accessible, making complex philosophical ideas understandable to a broad audience. Overall, "The Power of the Granted -- Why I Choose to Be Unhappy" is a compelling and thoughtful piece that challenges conventional views on happiness and materialism. Part I: Lambasting The Hedonic Treadmill The things we possess, including money, do not increase our happiness once we get used to them. Once we get used to things, they slowly but gradually become indifferent to us. We start to take their existence in our lives for granted, until we forget the value we once placed on them, at least empirically. This can make them, even, seem worthless in our eyes. The key to maintaining our happiness lies in maintaining a perspective that will nurture gratitude and appreciation we have for the things we already possess. Getting more and more things we don't need, just to be happy, is a waste of time and money, and is the fault of financial materialism. Instead, we can create a mindset of gratitude and appreciation, which is free of charge. This is the cycle of financial materialism: chasing after something that we think will make us happy, only to find that it doesn't once we get used to it. This leads us to buy more and more things, just to maintain the initial happiness. However, this is actually counterproductive , because it leads to addiction. And every addiction leads to short-term happiness in quantity, but not to long-term happiness in quality. Such is the case, for example, with coffee. This is why I know that even if I were to become rich, I would most likely become accustomed to it. I would be mentally the same way I was before I was rich. This would make the quest for wealth counterproductive. The return to point 1, the point of no satisfaction, is inevitable unless we develop a mindset of satisfaction, regardless of our financial and social status. In other words, happiness is not something that we can buy. And the best way to create happiness is to focus on the things that we already have, and to be grateful for them. Part II: The Granted: Subverted and Utilized As for myself I purposefully choose to be unhappy and unsatisfied, so I would get more work done on and for Philosocom. Ambition leads to suffering , and because I take suffering as granted, the same as I do with many of my achievements as a writer, I don't mind it as much. Taking things for granted helps me a lot to ease my daily agonies. From PTSD to skin hunger to that period I used to be a physical handicap due to post-trauma , and more. I choose to take my lack of satisfaction and convert it into a drive for work, hence why I undermine the idea of relishing in the fruits of my labor -- because I desire to make more "fruit". I take my quest for vengeance as granted as well because I know whatever I'll do, will never be enough to satisfy my heart and mind. Because I also take that as granted as well, I am hoping to construct the best philosophy blog out there, per my vision. Empires are built on the lust for more, and thus, on suffering. I might never be happy as I used to be back when I was a child in the 2000's. However I don't care, and take that for granted, too. I mentally survive by internalizing facts and possible facts as quickly and logically as I can. I discard what is too impractical to indulge in, and focus on whatever can be converted into the product of either a new article, or a revamped one. Part III: Contrasting Notes My ruthless path is not for everyone. It is not at all easy and I simply adopt a path I designed myself to be suited for, ever since the 2000's, where I forced myself listening to Eminem, and later on, sank into asceticism. Some methods may compel you to be prepared for. Likewise, on the path to philosophership , you should prepare yourself for the social risks involved. Therefore, depending on your capabilities and on what you want to become, maybe consider methods that appeal to you more individually, especially when it comes to your mental health. For example, if you want to become a party animal, maybe choose to develop empathy, social communication skills and common ground with those around you, far more than asceticism. Of course many of you would be puzzled by my decision to be unhappy. However, I am not you and you are not me. My ambitions might never be shared with you, and I might never fully understand the reasoning of your own ambitions. Either way, uniqueness can be bridged through communication , where people try to see where the other person is coming from. Do so, and you can greatly reduce your own biases. Conclusion For my plans, done in solitude , I have chosen asceticism over hedonism . The joy already exists within the potential of our minds, and even then, not everyone wants to be joyful and/or happy. Hedonists can live the way they do and rarely feel any joy beyond the immediate pleasure of costly things. Ascetics might as well disregard the topic of taking things for granted, completely, as asceticism has its own reasoning that may be irrelevant to this notion. Neither of these things are needed when you can teach your brain to release the chemicals that lead to your desired state of mind, through conscious thinking and alteration of your mindset. Everything else is extra, not the essence. You might be surprised to find that you are still unhappy despite achieving the things you achieved. Hence why, unlike many, I do not base my achievements upon emotions. I take it for granted that I shouldn't act on petty emotion , nor see it as "evidence" for my success, which depends on the external world, not my heart. For your own success, you might want to reconsider your pursuit of happiness, when it can bring much good to yourself and to others, independently of that subjective emotion.

Article Summary by Mr. O. C. Isaac and Co. "The Rubinshteinic Butcher" is an engaging article that presents a compelling argument about emotional detachment as a way to manage overwhelming content and improve efficiency. Mr. Tomasio uses a unique metaphor of a butcher who emotionally detaches from their work to illustrate the concept. The article also discusses personal responsibility for one's emotions and the societal implications of prioritizing personal liberty over emotional responsibility, providing philosophical depth and encouraging readers to reflect on their own beliefs. The article provides practical advice on applying the philosophy of emotional detachment in everyday life, particularly in professional settings , including the suggestion to expose oneself gradually to uncomfortable content to build resilience. The conclusion effectively summarizes the key points and emphasizes the importance of balancing emotional detachment with empathy, acknowledging its potential downsides but emphasizing its benefits for personal and professional growth. In conclusion, "The Rubinshteinic Butcher" presents a thought-provoking and bold perspective on managing overwhelming content through emotional detachment. (Background music) Beginning With the Main Course Being overwhelmed is a distressing emotional experience where your own intense emotions can cause you to feel uneasy, exhausted, and so on -- an overall negative experience. Since people dislike negative experiences, they would try to avoid having them in the first place. Therefore, people may be more than willing to limit the extent of their potential in the name of avoiding the uncomfortable feeling of being overwhelmed. Still, we should all understand that other people are not responsible in any way for our emotional problems , unless of course they happen to be our therapists. This lack of responsibility on emotions is one of the things that can easily make this world a cruel and harsh place to live in. Because the legitimate notion of "I can do whatever I want" can also be translated to "other people's emotional problems are not my own". And yes. They're right . As unfortunate as it may sound. That can even include friends and family. Don't expect emotional-moral responsibility in a world where personal liberties are prioritized far more. It isn't realistic to do so. And you can't choose for people their own priority of moral values. That's their own decision. As such, the responsibility of handling your own emotions lies on your own shoulders. For that matter, I decided to extend my help by explaining how I, mentally, use a certain philosophy in order to reduce unnecessary overwhelming.... On The Inner-Butchering Perception and How To Apply It “There is perhaps no psychological skill more fundamental than resisting impulse. ” -- Daniel Goldman As one who works with articles, I found out that treating them like a butcher, can help a lot. "The ideal butcher" is one that treats his or her job with emotional numbness . They may butcher animals like a woodsman may chop wood. With time, regardless of the "content" that's in front of them, they treat it like any other work. As inhumane as it may sound to vegetarians and vegans, butchering is just a job for many, and that attitude is possible by actively working to numb your emotions . Why? Because they are in the way. It is also one of the reasons why I dislike trigger warnings . My readership's emotional difficulties are of course not my problem, even though I may sometimes write on such issues (like in this very article). The idea that one should be sheltered from uncomfortable content whose discomfort they are able to solve, is impractical and counter-intuitive. The more they may escape from uncomfortable content, the more they will technically suffer, should they encounter this content once more. On the other hand, exposing yourself, even by small doses, to said content, can help one be less triggered by it. Being exposed to it might be an inevitable possibility... "You have power over your mind – not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength." -- Marcus Aurelius So, the same as the butcher butchers animals ruthlessly, I write and revamp the articles I possess, ruthlessly. The meaning behind them is important, for sure, but it would be a professional mistake to take said meaning to heart, as that's not the point. The point is to do this professionally in the name of optimal efficiency. Ruthlessness can therefore be regarded as virtue. The better professional is one that can handle things coldly and technically, more than warmly and intuitively. Because butchering animals for many is just a business, like writing and editing articles about sensitive topics is a business. Compare it to the business of hitmen . They make a living off of killing people they are contracted to . Many people may have difficulties doing it, so one has to have some sort of philosophy to handle such cruel, dirty business. It is not the responsibility of anyone to alter their mindset accordingly. No. It's their own. The Importance of Emotion and Empathy, Nonetheless.. Of course, butchering animals and assassinating people is not at the same level as handling emotionally-complex articles. Not even morally, and killing in general can be far more traumatizing than the latter... Of the total sample, 52% [of homicide perpetrators] met criteria for current PTSD. Reactive violence and reporting that the offence was traumatic were related to a current diagnosis of PTSD. -- Philip H. Pollock Still, the common thing between these categories stem from the fact that creating an emotional distance between ourselves and between these activities, can help us a lot in the form of reducing unnecessary suffering within us. Also, it's possible to understand others on an emotional level, without sharing their feelings. This is known as cognitive empathy. This can help you become a better professional. The moral thing to do to reduce unnecessary suffering in this world, and of course we are in this world as well. It's moral to do so for others. There's no reason as to why it wouldn't be moral to do so with ourselves. Because no one would necessarily have the moral capacity and willpower to do it for us. We should take care of ourselves more... Our health and physical/mental well-being is very important to our family , to the community and to the nation. If we fall in sickness, we will be the burden of our family, our community and to the nation. So to be responsible for our family, our community and our nation, we should take good care of ourselves. -- Ligen Yu Problems With High Sensitivity Sensitivity is a weakness when it makes you vulnerable and overwhelmed. B y reducing it, you can become less weak yourself. And it only makes sense to do so in the name of survival, even if that survival is purely in the realm of mentality . Take care of your mentality and you can suffer less, like a butcher may do in order to survive in the meat industry... One skill that you master while working at an abattoir is disassociation. You learn to become numb to death and to suffering. Instead of thinking about cows as entire beings, you separate them into their saleable, edible body parts. It doesn't just make the job easier -- it's necessary for survival . -- Ashitha Nagesh , BBC Be too sensitive for your own good, and you may hinder your ability to profit and be exposed to new content. It also means being less able to create new content yourself, if you are in the content creating world. That's because not all content is comfortable to make, as well. I treat my articles like a butcher treats cattle, like a hitman treats his targets, like a drug kingpin treats their products -- it's just business . Consequences of Not Developing Further Think of what you're losing when you refuse to handle with your own overwhelming. I'm talking about potential. About the person you can become . About the places in life you can find yourself in, by being tougher and more ruthless. About what you can earn, by either insight, profit -- and even both. Thriving is the best way to increase one's chances of survival for the long-term. Reduce your own chances of being overwhelmed, and even traumatized , and you can have a better chance at it. And thus, decreasing unnecessary emotional intensity can help you live -- and even work -- far better. It is expressed by being less distracted and more clear-headed, and that allows you to focus better on your job and thus become a better employee and/or employer. Of course, emotional intensity, when reduced, can ease your mentality and make you feel less pain. Mental, or otherwise... The Grimness of the Top Ever wondered why people at the top of an organizational chain are often psychopaths ? Because emotional vulnerabilities are weakness that stands in the way of greater power. Empathy and remorse -- even towards yourself -- stands as a filter for greater opportunities in life by influencing your decisions. Opportunities that can allow you to better survive, like psychopaths do. I'm not telling you to become psychopaths/sociopaths (AKA nurture ASPD) . We still need empathy to properly understand people and in order to be moral. Cognitive or otherwise. No. I'm encouraging you to become a better version of yourself. One that can be both moral and tougher , without having these values contradict each other. Why would they have to contradict when they can be in balance? As such, the butcher can still be a compassionate being . Not necessarily when he or she butchers animals, but as a human being. There is no hypocrisy in being able to repress one's counter-intuitive sensitivities in the name of survival, especially if that survival is not mental but/and also financial. Your path towards becoming tougher can begin by accepting the fact that you're emotionally weak, and can proceed by understanding that emotional/mental weakness is not a verdict you can't do anything about. Don't let that weakness kill you off. It stood in my way, so I was the one who killed much of it. Unlike many, I refuse to be weak. I also refuse being a less-than-good content consumer and creator. I did what's necessary for me. I did what's beneficial, for you, my readership. Conclusions While empathy is important , overly strong emotions can be a hindrance to personal and professional success. Here are the key takeaways: Emotional detachment can be a tool for managing overwhelm : The metaphor of a butcher to illustrate how separating emotions from work can improve efficiency and reduce suffering. We are responsible for managing our own emotions : Others are not obligated to shield us from discomfort , and exposure to challenging content can build resilience. Desensitization can be a path to growth : Reducing emotional vulnerability can lead to greater opportunities and a stronger mental state. Strength and empathy can coexist : It's possible to be emotionally intelligent while also developing a thicker skin for specific situations. There may be downsides of emotional detachment, but also benefits for survival and thriving   in a world that prioritizes personal freedoms over societal wellbeing. For greater emotional management, we should develop responsibility for your own emotional well-being, and nurture a balanced approach that allows one to be both empathetic and resilient. I would like to suggest the training of one's cognitive empathy skill to do just that. Mr. Nathan Lasher's Feedback Best way to handle emotional content is to let it be emotional for you. Doing so will tell you how you are supposed to feel by reading any given part. Remember though that emotions are like built-in warnings for us as to how we should psychologically respond to things. Just don’t let it control your response to people and events. We should avoid negative emotions in our actions. You can have those emotions all you want. Just remember: are they the emotions you want other people to see? How negative emotion gets spread so easily.... People feel something, go demonstrate that feeling and it makes an additional person feel it.

(Disclaimer: The guest posts do not necessarily align with Philosocom's manager, Mr. Tomasio Rubinshtein's beliefs, thoughts, or feelings. The point of guest posts is to allow a wide range of narratives from a wide range of people. To apply for a guest post of your own, please send your request to mrtomasio@philosocom.com) ( Definition : : [Matrix is] something within or from which something else originates, develops, or takes form) (Philosocom's Directory On the Virtual Realm) (His articles: https://www.philosocom.com/post/insights-to-understand-social-engineering-by-mr-o-c-isaac https://www.philosocom.com/post/a-tale-of-the-silent-hour-5-poems-on-the-philosophy-of-the-heart-by-mr-ogbule-chibuzo-isaac https://www.philosocom.com/post/how-to-cope-with-war-like-a-stoic-by-mr-o-c-isaac https://www.philosocom.com/post/how-to-become-a-more-logical-being-by-mr-o-c-isaac https://www.philosocom.com/post/the-vibrational-energies-in-humans-by-mr-o-c-isaac https://www.philosocom.com/post/philosophical-complementary-on-silent-hill-2 https://www.philosocom.com/post/trying-to-understand-pre-socratic-african-philosophy-by-mr-o-c-isaac https://www.philosocom.com/post/7-issues-arising-from-assisted-reproduction-bioethics-by-mr-o-c-isaac https://www.philosocom.com/post/how-to-detect-good-and-evil-using-the-alignment-system-by-mr-o-c-isaac https://www.philosocom.com/post/dr-s-radhakrishnan-s-legacy-once-a-philosopher-no-return-after-by-mr-o-c-isaac How To Examine Human Activities -- A Collection of Guides (By Mr. Ogbule Chibuzo Isaac) The Quiet Triumph (Poem by Mr. O. C. Isaac) How to be Highly Practical/Pragmatic -- Short Story Analysis (By Mr. Ogbule Chibuzo Isaac) https://www.philosocom.com/post/karl-popper https://www.philosocom.com/post/social-engineering https://www.philosocom.com/post/cynic-philosophy ) (Background music) ********************* Article Synopsis by Mr. J. Igwe and Co. The article "The Philosophy of the Matrix" by Ogbule Chibuzo Isaac provides a comprehensive exploration of philosophical themes within the Matrix film trilogy. It covers a broad range of themes, such as epistemology , metaphysics, existentialism, determinism and free will, ethics, and the Allegory of the Cave . The article's clear explanations of complex concepts make it easier for readers to grasp the nuances of these ideas. Relative analogies between The Matrix and Plato's Allegory of the Cave illustrate the film's exploration of perceived reality versus true reality, making the philosophical discussion more relatable. The engaging introduction sets the stage for the subsequent philosophical analysis, inviting critical thinking by raising questions about reality, free will, and the nature of existence. Introduction The Matrix  is also a science fiction film trilogy  that explores the concept of a simulated reality controlled by machines, while humans are kept unaware and trapped in a computer-generated world. The main character, Neo, discovers the truth and joins a group of rebels  fighting to free humanity from the machines' control. The story delves into themes of reality, identity, and the nature of existence. The philosophy of The Matrix draws heavily from various philosophical concepts and ideas, weaving them together to create a thought-provoking narrative. The film explores the concept of a simulated reality controlled by machines, while humans are unaware and plugged into this virtual world. Neo discovers the truth and becomes part of a rebellion against the machines. At its core, the series presents a simulated reality controlled by machines, with humans unknowingly trapped in this artificial world. The protagonist, Neo, embarks on a journey of discovery, challenging the boundaries of this reality and questioning the very fabric of existence. The film's integration of complex philosophical concepts makes it a compelling narrative, inviting viewers to ponder profound questions about knowledge, free will , and the human condition. The film's innovative visual effects and philosophical themes have made it a significant cultural icon in the science fiction genre. By weaving these philosophical aspects into its narrative, The Matrix creates a rich and intellectually stimulating experience, inviting viewers to contemplate profound questions about reality, identity , free will, and the human condition. It has become a thought-provoking work that continues to resonate with audiences and spark philosophical discussions. Epistemology and Skepticism : The film raises questions about knowledge, truth, and skepticism. It challenges the characters and the audience to question what they believe to be real and whether their perceptions can be trusted. Epistemology is the philosophical study of knowledge and its acquisition. In the context of The Matrix , skepticism plays a significant role. The film challenges both its characters and the audience to question reality and the reliability of their perceptions. This theme is poignantly illustrated in the scene where Neo takes the red pill offered by Morpheus , leading him to see the world as it truly is—a simulated reality controlled by machines. This moment serves as a powerful analogy for the epistemological journey from ignorance to knowledge, echoing the philosophical skepticism seen in Descartes' Meditations . Just as Descartes doubted everything to find an indubitable truth, Neo's experience prompts us to question the certainty of our own knowledge. The characters in the movie live in a simulated world, and their perceptions are manipulated by the machines . This challenges the certainty of their knowledge about the world around them. Skepticism is evident in the characters' doubt and questioning of the reality they experience. Neo's journey can be seen as a representation of skepticism, as he seeks to uncover the truth and questions his understanding of the world. Additionally, Morpheus' famous quote, " What is real? How do you define reality?" encapsulates the philosophical skepticism the movie delves into, urging us to consider whether our perceptions are mere illusions. Metaphysics and Reality The Matrix  is a science fiction film that explores complex themes related to metaphysics and reality. It delves into the concept of simulated reality, where humans are unknowingly trapped in a simulated world created by artificial intelligence. It presents the idea that what we perceive as reality might be a simulated construct, blurring the lines between the physical world and the digital one. The movie raises philosophical questions about the mind-body problem , and the existence of a higher reality beyond the simulated one. The pivotal moment when Neo awakens in the real world, after being disconnected from the Matrix, serves as a metaphor for Plato’s Allegory of the Cave . Just as the prisoners in Plato's cave mistake shadows for reality, the inhabitants of the Matrix are deceived by the simulated world. Neo’s journey out of the Matrix mirrors the philosopher's ascent from the cave, representing the struggle to understand true reality beyond the illusions. Moreover, The Matrix can be seen as a critique of Cartesian dualism , the idea that the mind and body are separate entities. The film suggests that the mind's perception of reality can be manipulated , challenging the distinction between mind and body. This raises profound metaphysical questions about what constitutes the self and how we define our existence. The film's metaphysical aspects serves as a thought-provoking exploration of the boundaries between what is real and what is perceived. Existentialism and Individual Freedom The movie touches on existential themes, particularly through Neo's journey. He grapples with questions about his purpose, identity, and the freedom to choose his path. The Matrix explores themes related to individuality , free will, reality, and existence within a simulated world. The movie presents a scenario where humans are unknowingly living in a simulated reality created by machines , raising questions about the meaning of life and the choices we make. The concept delves into the struggle of the characters to find their authentic selves and embrace freedom in a world that appears predetermined. Neo’s struggle to break free from the Matrix and discover his true self resonates with Jean-Paul Sartre’s notion of existential freedom —the idea that we are condemned to be free and must take responsibility for our choices. Neo's realization that he has the power to shape his reality within the Matrix reflects Sartre’s belief that individuals have the freedom to define their essence through their actions, despite external constraints. Determinism and Free Will The concept of humans being controlled by machines raises questions about free will. It explores whether individuals have the ability to make authentic choices or if their actions are predetermined by external forces. The Matrix explores the theme of determinism and free will through its central concept of an artificial reality controlled by machines. The film suggests that humans are unaware of their true reality and live in a simulated world, where their actions seem to be a product of choice, but are actually predetermined by the machines. Neo's journey represents the struggle between determinism and free will. He is initially confined to the rules of the Matrix , seemingly without control over his actions. However, as he learns about the truth and gains awareness, he begins to exercise his free will and challenge the predetermined fate imposed by the machines. The film raises philosophical questions about the illusion of choice and the possibility of transcending predetermined paths. It invites viewers to contemplate whether true freedom lies in accepting the constructed reality or in breaking free from it to shape their own destinies. The Oracle’s prophecy adds complexity to this theme, suggesting that while some events may be predetermined, individuals still have the power to make meaningful choices. This duality invites us to ponder whether true freedom lies in accepting the constraints of our reality or in defying them to create our own destiny. Ethics and Rebellion The resistance movement led by Morpheus and Neo raises ethical questions about power, control, and the value of human life. It explores the moral implications of fighting against oppression and the consequences of one's actions. The Matrix also raises several ethical questions, particularly regarding the use of technology. The use of technology to control human minds within the Matrix brings up ethical questions about the limits of technological power and the importance of preserving human autonomy. The rebellion against the machines can be seen as a metaphor for the struggle against authoritarian control in the real world, raising issues about individual freedom versus societal control. The rebellion aspect centers on the struggle of humanity against the oppressive machines that keep them imprisoned in the virtual world. The film's themes prompt viewers to contemplate the balance between individual freedom and societal control, and the consequences of challenging established norms. Allegory of the Cave The film parallels Plato's Allegory of the Cave . In the allegory, prisoners are chained inside a cave, only able to see shadows on a wall, which they take to be the whole of reality. Similarly, in The Matrix , humans are trapped in a simulated reality , mistaking it for the true world. Neo's journey can be seen as a metaphorical escape from the cave, seeking to understand what reality really is. The allegory of the cave, first presented by Plato in The Republic , shares similarities with the concept portrayed in The Matrix . Both explore the idea of reality being an illusion and humans being unaware of their true existence. In both cases, a character (Plato's philosopher and Neo in The Matrix ) discovers the truth and must confront the challenge of returning to the cave or the simulated reality to help others escape their ignorance. The central theme revolves around questioning what we perceive as reality and how knowledge can lead to enlightenment and liberation from illusion. Conclusions The philosophical central idea of The Matrix revolves around the concept of reality and perception . It explores the notion that our perceived reality might be an illusion, created by a sophisticated virtual reality system. This raises questions about the nature of existence, the self, and the importance of free will versus determinism . By drawing on classical philosophical concepts like Plato’s Allegory of the Cave and Descartes' skepticism, the film invites viewers to engage in a deep and critical examination of reality and truth. Ultimately, The Matrix is not just a science fiction story ; it is a philosophical journey that encourages us to wake up from the illusions that bind us and t o seek out the truth, no matter how uncomfortable it may be. As Neo discovers, the path to enlightenment is fraught with challenges, but it is through this journey that we find our true selves and the freedom to shape our own destiny. The John Duran Bonus (Added by Mr. Tomasio Rubinshtein) The simulation is designed in such a specific manner as to preclude any proof of its own existence, and our true status inside would defeat the entire point of its existence. So for us, the only true question is why? Did we actually choose to be trapped here? Are we prisoners, or vacationers and/or gamers? Mr. Nathan Lasher's Feedback As machines do not possess a soul they are not capable of free thought. This raises one fundamental problem with the Matrix. Machines can only do what they are programmed to. This means in the Matrix history some dumb a** had to program the machines to be able to harvest humans. Who hates humanity that much they would doom everyone to that fate? How we do not know we are in a matrix? Is not everything we see the results of someone taking action? We follow the herd mentality and become a herd of followers instead of leaders. I think that is the imagery the Matrix is trying to show: Many followers and only a few free leaders. Is the concept of any movie about conflict, giving into something versus fighting against it? We as people love to pick sides, explaining the separation in politics. I wonder if people in the matrix also had to win by election or were those victories pre determined as well? The problem with the world today is they train people to ask for permission before taking action. What if we were all responsible for our own actions? Neo changes the way he views reality, the matrix, by starting to discover he has the ability to change reality; he after making this discovery had the ability to move through reality because he understood it. Isn’t that the message in the Matrix, well one of them? To make people realize they have more control over their own realities than they previously believed? Jobs are a good example of actions. Think about it in a macro sense. What are you actually doing for a company? I think the point of the matrix was to make people stop living in the simulation of life. To wake up and realize the only way things will change is if you take responsibility for understanding that, if you want change you must invest something into getting it, either time or money. If you ever wake up and can’t understand the life you have, [then] you are a representation of Neo before he woke up. That is the message I think the writers were trying to get across. People need to wake up to the flaws in the system and do something to get rid of them.

(Background music) A World Transformed: Modernity's Impact on Traditional Societies The grand grip and dominance of the modern world on us is undeniable. Technological revolutions have fundamentally reshaped our lives compared to those of our pre-industrial, pre-media ancestors. Much of what makes this world vastly unfair, for example, can be attributed to modern development. However, remnants of these traditional societies still exist – not just isolated tribes, but also communities that have maintained a sense of their cultural "purity" in the face of westernization and globalization. From the Roma people to the Samaritans to tribesmen and tribeswomen across Africa , the effects of modernity, positive and negative, have yet to fully influence the world to really make it a global, diverse " universal culture " where all members of the globe are entailed. Whether that globalist notion is positive or negative by itself, is a different topic worthy to be pondered upon. Yet, as technology and science continue to develop, the future of Influence of Modernity On Traditional Communities communities becomes increasingly uncertain without the partial embrace of modernity. According to Kyle T. Mays : "We should embrace what Anishinaabe scholar Scott Richard Lyons calls “indigenous modernity.” Lyons writes, “to embrace [indigenous] modernity is to usher in other modern concepts (not all of them necessarily, but some of them, and I’d say the ones we want), including the concept of decolonization ”. Exposure to the modern world can threaten those who wish to preserve their ancient way of life without adjustment. Even today, many jobs may require you to use a smartphone . However, the problem with contemporary technology is that it leads to isolation and thus to a greater reduction of social cohesion. Traditionalists' passion for conservation may struggle to hold back the tide of modern-day technology, which constantly marches towards new discoveries and inventions. That is often done without much consideration for local environment. After all, technology is made to be used by people worldwide, due to the fact that globalization allows the expansion of companies' target audience . As such, and will be discussed later, the expansion of profit is what allows the reduction of social cohesion within more-traditional communities, seeking to preserve their way of life. Let's explore how advancements in science and technology, often associated with " western hegemony ," have impacted, are impacting, and could further disrupt the preservation of these traditional societies. Faith's Fate Religion, with its shared belief in deities and supernatural forces, has long been the glue that binds communities together. For millennia, it has fostered cooperation and prosperity, though not always fairness, or even truth necessarily. However, the rise of scientific inquiry and experimentation is challenging some core religious principles. Scientific discoveries have cast doubt on concepts like the literal existence of souls , reincarnation, a young Earth, or unchanging/non-evolving species. This doubt, increased by technological advancements and by scientism , have led many to move away from creationism towards atheism or agnosticism . This growing secularism presents a threat to traditional societies built on religious foundations. Consider the Jewish Haredim , a collection of highly religious sects. They fear that exposure to outside information and technology will erase their zeal and fracture their community, which is the expanse of their identity . This fear sometimes leads to self-imposed isolation and a rejection of what some religious folk in general may consider an "impure" world . Education, Economics, and the Erosion of Tradition The relentless march of progress demands a skilled workforce. In today's economic landscape, traditional communities face immense pressure to abandon their ways in pursuit of new forms of education and professionalism, mainly involved around the tech industries. Ever wondered, for example, why many Indians work at tech support? It's because India has a large pool of skilled workers at a lower cost . That gives them an advantage over the western world as populations in third world countries are in greater need of job security According to Lio.org: As expected, the poorer developing economies of Asia and Africa head the list of countries with low levels of labour market security. This is driven by the rapid irrelevance of old professions ( like sword-making ), replaced by more specialized, times-related roles. The mantra of "staying educated" becomes a necessity to survive in a globalized, ever-changing world. Companies have to spot trends if they don't want to become irrelevant in their industries. And since going global is more profitable than staying local as a business , an even better way to be profitable is to spot global trends and market your products and services in accordance. This can and does lead to a global consumerist culture, where many people find common interest not through regional identity but through contemporary icons, from memes to popular culture. This distribution of product on a global scale, which creates a global audience, can also strengthen your brand, by allowing people to connect through greater accessibility to shared interests. What connected people during the foundation of NationStates , like a shared ancestry and cultural art, has been largely replaced by games, movies, the English language and pop icons like the Joker. Within the professional world, those lacking the necessary credentials may struggle to thrive. Traditional communities, often geographically isolated and lacking access to modern infrastructure, are particularly vulnerable. Poverty and limited opportunities within their current environment often force them to migrate to urban centers, exposing them to new ways of life. Increased work hours and a rising expanse of living may require them to work more and be less available for socializing or to spend time with their families. This, of course, presents a challenge to the preservation of traditions. Advancement necessitates change, and the lure of economic stability can pull individuals away from their cultural roots. The Industrial Revolution offers a historical example. As factories boomed in the late 19th century, many men left their communities to earn a living in big cities, sacrificing traditional life to support families back home. The Allure of Modernity: Social Disparity and the Future of Tradition Traditional communities, despite garnering respect for their customs, often face significant socioeconomic challenges . Compared to the general population, they may experience higher rates of poverty . Poverty often leads to higher rates of crime . Limited access to education and technology further disadvantages them. These socio-economic disparities can be grim – more education, security, and wealth are concentrated within mainstream society. Growing in a poor neighborhood myself, I often stood in a remarkable contrast compared to the rest of local society merely because I'm an auto-didact, or a self-learner . According to Slate: Most people are not autodidacts. In order to learn effectively, they need guidance provided by teachers. They need support provided by peers. And they need structure provided by institutions. This harsh reality of not having proper guidance nor structure can create a powerful pull for younger generations, away from many opportunities. The allure of a better life, with greater opportunity and job security, may lead them to disassociate from traditional ways and embrace the dominant culture. That might be done merely to survive. This can be seen in the case of the Aboriginal Australians, the native inhabitants of Australia before European colonization. The Aboriginals exemplify the struggles faced by many traditional communities. Lower educational attainment, poorer health outcomes, and limited economic prospects often plague these many groups. However, advocating for complete urbanization and abandonment of tradition presents a false dichotomy. While doing so may help them integrate more into the wealthy Australian nation , there are ways to improve these communities while still respecting and preserving their cultural heritage. Summary: Finding a Balance The future of traditional societies lies in finding a balance. Can they embrace advancements that improve their lives without sacrificing their cultural identity? After all, culture has a role as well in human life. Technological innovations in communication could connect these communities with the wider world while allowing them to share their traditions. Educational opportunities that value their cultural knowledge could empower younger generations. Advocating for pluralism could also help integrating such minorities without alienating them from the rest of society and vice versa. The story of tradition in the modern world is not one of inevitable decline, but of adaptation. By embracing change strategically, these communities can ensure their survival and continue to enrich the tapestry of human experience. The same applies in philosophy as well. Western philosophy may dominate discourse to this very day, but voices of more philosophers deserve to be heard, just like I attempt to do here in Philosocom through the preservation and enrichment of the Guest Posts category. Alex Mos's Feedback: Tradition is a double-aged weapon. It reinforces tribe mentality and belonging while setting us apart from other groups and their traditions. People seek to belong because a community provides security, values, and mates. A profound negative aspect of traditions is that they set us apart from others in a firm conviction that our traditions are correct and justified. Traditions, in that sense, lead to bias, superiority, and discrimination. Also, traditions are rooted in spiritual beliefs and ancient wisdom, often outdated and twisted by time. It clashes with the modern world because its meaning lost its practical value and is merely emotional. I see traditions as a reminiscence of a mysterious and mystic past that will eventually disappear, assuming the world will follow the path of innovation and not destruction. I see the sacrifice of traditions as an inevitable step into total globalization, a new world where all humans belong to one secular tribe led by science and technology. I'm unsure if this will be a blissful reality , but it might be a step towards the following evolutionary change , and our species will adjust as we did before.

The Subcategory's Directory https://www.philosocom.com/post/valentine-s-day-and-undesired-uniqueness https://www.philosocom.com/post/how-to-become-more-unique https://www.philosocom.com/post/bittersweet-satisfaction-settlement-with-the-inevitable-a-unique-emotion External Vision and Identity -- How Perception and Identity Has To Do With Truth and Survival My Philosophy on Being an Outsider https://www.philosocom.com/post/eccentric-realities-how-to-embrace-eccentric-minds-by-mr-nathan-lasher-co-authored-by-mr-t-r https://www.philosocom.com/post/alienation-as-natural https://www.philosocom.com/post/importance-of-individuality Flight of the Ruby Tomato's Seeds https://www.philosocom.com/post/but-no-bubble-was-created-in-defence-of-escapism https://www.philosocom.com/post/accept-others https://www.philosocom.com/post/qualia-why-our-experiences-are-unique-by-mr-nathan-lasher https://www.philosocom.com/post/being-young https://www.philosocom.com/post/eternal-outsider (Background music) Why Being Ordinary Feels Like Oblivion Truth be told, without any condescension , there's a spectrum of uniqueness in the human experience. Some have attained a special form of vibrancy , like those with a high charismatic presence. That is while others remain so average, that their average-ness can be seen as their uniqueness . However, for a specific segment of this spectrum – the distinction seekers – there's fear lurks beneath their ambition: the fear of being "like" everyone else. This fear can also be regarded as the fear of being forgotten, or Athazagoraphobia. We can deduce from this that some people have a psychological need to fit in, while others feel obliged to stand out . Both needs stem from our individual mentalities. The claim that "We all Want to Fit In" is therefore a product of the generalization fallacy. For me, the notion of being indistinguishable from "the crowd", is a more disturbing fate than death itself, for in death I can still be remembered. In today's virtual world, the need to promote ourselves is also done for the sake of the content we're creating. In other words, the more we're known online, the likelier we'll be read/viewed more. That's known as having a unique brand identity. Without it, our contributions can be so insignificant, they would vanish with the passing moments, undermined by our many competitors. By this philosophy of self, similarity isn't just about belonging, but also about fading into the background. Is it really beneficial to sacrifice our distinction in favor of belonging? This can terrify those of us with a large amount of ideas that must be expressed and marketed in order to even be regarded as relevant. Whether we're correct or not, some of us believe our perspectives are so distinct, they're capable of creating a new ideology, like I did with Political Rubinshteinism , or even create a significant change in people's lives. The thought of being remembered simply as a name , can deter the value we can give to humanity. Thus, importance can be regarded as a tool. This fear fuels an unrelenting drive to be good and, most importantly, to produce, for our time in this world is limited as well as it is uncertain. As such, many of us strive to leave a mark, even more than we feel a need to belong to a bigger collective. Do the best you can, and becoming/staying as another nameless cog in the machine of existence, can decrease in its probability. When Standing Out Demands Explanation Uniqueness, while often seen as a virtue, possesses a hidden cost: the constant burden of explanation to those you depend upon, and refuse to accept you for who you are. This applies not just to outsiders, but also to those who know you well. Not all families will accept you for who you are. Your friends won't necessarily support you all the way. They might not be "true friends". Your partner's love for you might be conditional. Complexity, inherent in unique individuals, demands extra effort – effort not everyone is willing or able to give. As presented with people with disabilities, being different from the ordinary is not always something people like to be, as they can hinder you from meeting standards. Furthermore, unique people aren't always easy to understand. In relationships, understanding your loved one is key to a successful relationship. According to Betterhelp: Love may involve empathy, sympathy, or compassion for those you care about. If you can only think or act from your point of view, you may struggle to relate with others or show love in a way someone else understands.  In a romantic relationship, do your best to understand your partner's motivations and goals. They might come from a different background than you or have a different love language . They might approach a relationship in a way you do not understand. For example, if they show love to you through physical touch , but you only understand love through words of affirmation, you might feel your partner has never shown you love, even if they have been trying to.  Knowing your differences and considering how your partner feels might allow you to reduce conflict. Love may feel invisible when a couple isn't willing to compromise or try to understand each other. Trying to empathize with your partner might make it feel easier to get along with them and lead to a smoother relationship. Now, some might argue, "Isn't a little similarity enough to be unique?" Similarity and identicality are distinct concepts. Even slight variations between similar individuals create differences. In that sense, we're all inherently different. This is why I started the article with "There are people who are more unique than others.: Distinction and separation are the tools that forge true differentiation, which allow us to navigate existence more effectively. As such, not all forms of double edge of uniqueness are universally positive. Would you say that being a psychopath is a good thing, just because they're unique? Here's where objectivity comes in: Objectivity implies universal truth, which can lead to a trap of absolution . As such, objectivity's a concept I challenge, and I disagree with the proverb of " HaKol LeTova" ("everything is for good") : Some individuals are born with rare mutations that severely limit their lifespan. It's hard to see a positive spin on a condition that cuts one's life short, robbing them of the opportunity to experience life fully. I do not see how being abused can be part of a bigger plan for good, compared to those who haven't. The same goes for cycle of abuse. Can we really say that nuking an enemy nation is moral, when nukes could lead to humanity's extinction? This can be traced back to the cost of significant uniqueness. When it outweighs similarity, it often demands a higher price: the relentless need to be understood. Unless you choose the life of a full hermit, being understood becomes crucial for a healthy existence, especially for public figures like writers who must communicate in some way. For those who aspire to a public platform, the need for explanation becomes a necessary cost of entry. Otherwise, they can be considered madmen, and their uniqueness become a professional liability. Can We Be Too Unique for Our Own Good? Individualism can come at a price that paradoxically limits your individuality's self-actualization.  It's why I criticize Nietzsche's Overman. Humans are inherently complex, but some possess an extra layer of intricacies, both positive and negative. This complexity can create a wall between you and the "External World," leading to frustrating miscommunications, and thus to a reduction of your potential's accomplishments. How come?  We rely, and often thrive, on shared understanding. To truly connect, we need common ground, often established through labels and words.   The question, then, arises: is there a point where complexity becomes a barrier? How to Reduce Your Misunderstood Complexity Imagine a world filled with individuals who spoke entirely in private languages. While their self-expression would be boundless, communication would grind to a halt.  This highlights the importance of a balance between individual uniqueness, and the need to be understood in the name of survival and success . While embracing your unique qualities is crucial,  ensuring some level of clarity in your communication is vital for fostering healthy connections.  This doesn't necessitate sacrificing your individuality, but about finding a way to bridge the gap between your inner world and the world of others. Finding the Bridge: Communication as a Tool Terms and labels are powerful tools for building bridges. They provide a shared vocabulary, allowing others to grasp the essence of your experiences. But remember, labels are just starting points – they don't capture your entire story. However, it's better than having people reject you as insane. The key lies in using these terms alongside open communication.  Share your experiences, the features that lie beneath the label.  Offering a window into your unique perspectives.  Create a space for genuine understanding. Work on your charisma. As unique people, the challenge lies in finding "the sweet spot" of embracing your individuality while fostering competent connection methods. Remember: an effective self-expression isn't just about being unique. Rather, it's about sharing your unique voice with the world, in a way that it would understand, if not learn!

(Philosocom Directory on Work) Alex Mos's Synopsis: Philosophy can be practical, and the rightly chosen logical thinker can be an asset to your company. A subordinated philosopher focusing on financial business structure and human behavior can help you maximize profits by using rhetoric skills and providing evidence-based advice. They can optimize business strategies like cost cuts and expansion plans. Philosophers are dedicated and ethical counselors who can also provide mental support and even restore faith in life. Hiring the right thinker for your company can be the key to success. Note: By "philosophers" I don't necessarily refer to people who are professional philosophers, but rather, people with good characteristics that often define a philosopher (Like being good logical thinkers or being able to find unique connections between concepts through creativity). It's possible therefore to become a philosopher when these characteristics are well-developed. After all, to quote Mr. Nathan Lasher: " A business owner is not going to post a wanted sign asking for a philosopher." (Background music) **************************** Can Philosophers Really Help Your Business? While some may discard the idea, philosophy can have a surprisingly practical impact on the world , especially within your own company. However, not all philosophers are created equal. That is due to three reasons: Impact and Contribution:  Not all philosophers have the same impact on the field of philosophy. Some philosophers propose ground-breaking ideas that change how we think about the world, while others contribute more in-depth within existing schools of thought. These school of thoughts have different relevancy to the world we live in today , with stoicism being a great example for a popular thought movement. Quality of Ideas: Not all philosophical arguments are equally strong or well-reasoned. Some philosophers present logical and well-supported ideas, while others might rely on fallacies and/or unclear arguments. As such, part of what makes it hard to understand Nietzsche's work lies in the need to read several of his works. Otherwise, it would be unnecessarily difficult for you to properly understand what he means in specific contexts, leading to an unnecessary degradation of understanding, and even misuse of ideas. Here's what you need to know before bringing a brainiac on board: The Right Philosopher for the Job Forget Karl Marx and his economically-harmful ideas. The philosophers you want on your team are those with a focus on financial benefit and a deep understanding of human behavior. Essentially, you need someone who can: Turn Arguments into Profits:  Their philosophical musings should be grounded in logic and lead to actionable insights that boost your bottom line: Making profit. Utilitarianism is such an example, as it seeks maximization of actions and choices. Master the Art of Persuasion:  They should understand human psychology and how to use it for your company's success. Many philosophers throughout history actually served in politics. And of course, a good politician is a good rhetorician. Rhetoric can help you as a business leader to increase the impact of your influence. Offer Sound Advice:  A profitable philosopher could also be an excellent advisor. Their recommendations should be based on clear reasoning, solid evidence, and maybe a sprinkle of well-founded speculation. Respect Authority:   While eccentric behavior might be expected , it shouldn't disrupt your workflow. Those, however, who use their intellects to intimidate, as intelligence often intimidates nonetheless , may struggle with subordination. That's because intellects often challenge social conventions, and a good philosopher can lambast anything. However, philosophers have perks of their own, making them a unique asset when said perks overcome their potential shortcomings. The Perks of Hiring a Philosopher So, what can these specially selected thinkers bring to the table? Flawless Flaw-Finders:  Philosophers are natural "logic detectives", adept at spotting fallacies in reasoning. This translates to well-thought-out advice, and to a potential increase of a strategy's benefit. They can fix a plan's theoratical failure, thus preventing that failure from occuring upon execution. At the very least they can significantly reduce chances of a plan's failing. Motivation Masters:  Many non-nihilist philosophers are driven by a strong belief system. This translates to a fierce work ethic and a dedication to your company's success, especially if they believe in your mission. A strong leader could use strong supporters. Wise Wielders of Wisdom:  Need help navigating a sticky business situation? A philosopher can offer invaluable advice, particularly when complex reasoning and clear communication are crucial. A "council of advisors" approach could be especially effective in enabling a successful deal to come into fruition. Cost-Cutting Champions:  Philosophers often value efficiency, as efficiency is the logical priority to attain. By analyzing your processes, they might identify unnecessary steps, saving you money in the long run. It's the same money you can invest elsewhere, and invest wisely. Proficient Perspective Providers:  As trained thinkers ( whether by life or academically ), they can bring unexpected solutions and expand your vision as a leader, propelling your business forward. Helpers of Hope:   If nihilism isn't their philosophy, they can act as competent guardians against employee hopelessness and even prevent tragedies of the mental kind. It's all through well-reasoned arguments and support. Yes, philosophy can be used to restore one's faith in being alive. If anything, that is the most practical asset a philosopher can be. Choose Wisely The key takeaway is that not all philosophers are created equal. Stay clear of impractical philosophers, and focus on those who can contribute to your financial success. After all, you're running a business, not a philosophy club ( Unless you have a philosophy blog? ). By carefully selecting a philosopher (or a team of them!), you can tap into a hidden wellspring of practical wisdom, propelling your company to greater heights. So, the next time you think philosophy is just pretentious pondering of unpopular people, remember: The right thinker could be the key to your success.

(Philosocom video game subcategory directory) (Background music) **************************************** Introduction One of the biggest industries in the world today is the gaming industry. Probably more than ever before, gaming has become not only used for entertainment purposes, but also as a way to make a nice profit even if you don't make video games for a living . With so many video games out there, much content can be created simply by playing them and recording your gameplay. However, there are still a few video games out there, known or unknown to the general public, that can also offer deeper meanings and explore deeper themes of wisdom humanity, the universe, and so forth; games that can even be enlightening in a sense. Games with depth compared to other fictional works. Although I am in no way a gamer, I do enjoy watching videos of video games. This is not necessarily because I don't want to play them myself, but because I am not as interested in playing games like I used to as a kid. I enjoy laying on my bed and seeing the gameplay pass through my eyes, hearing commentary, and investing my energies on Philosocom instead. As a philosopher, I do enjoy exploring the deeper meanings of video games, and those which usually have them the most are usually more esoteric, in a sense that they are not well known like mainstream games such as Fortnite and Counter-Strike (which are horribly shallow, along with many other games). Here are a few games I have watched and which have helped me in my philosophical endeavors (Massive spoilers for said games are included) : 1. Silent Hill 2 (The Villain Is Inside You) The Silent Hill games have revolutionized the horror genre, similarly to how Earthbound/Mother revolutionized the JRPG genre. In other words, no longer are you, the player, fighting scary monsters that are scary for their own sake; the monsters you encounter, along with the world you find yourself trapped in, are in fact your own personal hell, in the form of your repressed subconscious, or at least of the character you control. James Sunderland is the protagonist of the second game in the series; a confused and depressed office clerk who wants to find out the whereabouts of his dead wife, Mary , after he received a letter from her, inviting him to Silent Hill's hotel, where they visited once on a romantic vacation. As Sunderland descends into madness, he realizes that he in fact killed her. Accepting this fact, he fights the final boss of the game, a monstrous version of Mary , and kills her, thus ending his escape from the truth, and instead, accepts it, as his wife's own murderer. Silent Hill 2 is about accepting the disturbing, painful truths some of us may deny due to many reasons; from pride to fear to immaturity. Should we embrace our faults or at least recognize them, we can become more open, honest beings, thus giving ourselves a chance to move on and live a better life. Repression, after all, has its own consequences. Consider reflecting on the things you've done, and redeem yourself through good actions, and by avoiding the very things that might've made you a bad person. 2. LISA: The Painful RPG (The Long Term Effects) A game intended for adults, it covers grim themes such as trauma , addiction , existential despair and insanity. After the world has lost all womankind due to an unknown event simply called " The White Flash ", it has fallen into anarchy after there was no hope for humankind to survive. In addition, drug-addicted body-horrors called " Joy Mutants " have begun to appear due to a pill simply called " J oy " that helps people feel nothing (thus eradicating their suffering with each dose). Despite all of this, Brad Armstrong , whose class in the game is literally "Nobody", discovers a baby girl in the wasteland, and decides to take care of her while he tries to hide her from being discovered. His prime motive to do so is his belief that "she is my second chance" , referring to the despair of his sister whom he failed to prevent. Nonetheless, Buddy , the only known female, is kidnapped for the sake of the human race to repopulate once more. In the end, Brad, whose class is now "Failure", fails to convince Buddy to come with him, becoming himself a joy mutant. Buddy tried to escape from Brad because she too wanted to cooperate with the intentions of her kidnappers to reproduce. And so the sequel begins after Brad had killed every chance of Buddy's will to cooperate with the world she now hates. A heavy game indeed, but what I think we all should learn from it, is the fact that we should not put our own desires at a higher priority than those of others all the time, because the world is interconnected , similarly to what happened in the real world with the COVID-19 lockdown. One man's mistake can influence the whole world, even if they are not in a position of authority, and as such we should remember that the result of our actions can often have a bigger impact than we might currently imagine they have. And indeed, the name of that game, LISA, is named after Lisa Armstrong, who killed herself because of the abuse she recieved from her father, Marty Armstrong. Although his presence is small, he is known to be the overeaching antagonist of the entire LISA franchise. All because of his abusive actions. This also teaches us the importance of not abusing people, especially our children. After all abuse can turn them into human monsters who lack remorse and empathy. 3. Suikoden IV (Life and Punishment) The Suikoden series are probably one of the most underrated video game series out there, even though most of them contain interesting plots to follow, mostly of political nature but also of emotional nature as well. Suikoden IV is the only main Suikoden game I've played, and as a kid it was extremely immersive for me. However, I'd like to talk about one of the game's most controversial topics, which is the main character -- mostly a silent protagonist that follows orders even when he's in control. Nonetheless, that nameless hero, whose canonical name is Lazlo, possesses one of the more philosophical magic powers in the franchise -- a rune on his hand that is called the Rune of Punishment; a power of which when used, consumes the life of its user more and more, until they are dead, and then proceeds to find another handler to haunt for the reminder of their days. It is a parasitic entity that, once chooses its master, drains their lives with each use of their power. It is but an exchange. For either bad or good, its destructive use is forever a personal sacrifice, like with leading a life of serenity. Lazlo received this double-edged curse during a normal assignment as a marine soldier, when his ship was attacked by pirates. This raises the fear that can be obtained when pondering about the uncertainty of life. No matter what you do, even the most mundane of tasks could have a permanent, incurable effect on your condition as a human being. You could be walking down the street one moment, at peace with your thoughts, and in the next moment find yourself injured in a car accident or in a hit-and-run case. Arguably, nothing is certain, but we should also consider the following insight: some of us receive punishment or verdicts we do not deserve at all. Therefore, we are forever the "fools" to hands of chaos and the vague possibilities it has in store. Likewise, Lazlo did not deserve to have the Rune of Punishment, given that he did not do anything sinful that required him to deserve it by a force such as Karma . He was simply at the wrong place at the wrong time. Some may claim that it is common feature of real life as well. Lazlo/Razro is a silent, relatively passive hero who is generally a good person who managed his paramilitary faction like he was told to. The order we create in our minds can at any moment collapse into chaos, and isn't necessarily part of the World Beyond the Mind . The question is, are we ready enough to embrace the uncontrollable and the unfair, against which we are technically too weak? Are we ready to try and understand the long term effects of our and others' actions? Are we ready to accept the fact that we are not completely good people -- in the name of either good, truth, or both? Thank you for reading thus far. If you enjoyed this article, consider sharing it.

(Subcategory Directory: On Law Enforcement -- Why It's Necessary Demonstrations: Transparency, Common Goals, Power and Influence: (By Mr. M. Svartgold) The Philosophy of the Galactic Empire -- Why Oppression Isn't the Way to Rule On the Importance of Rules -- How They Effect the Human Mentality Rules For Commenters and Guest Writers From Mr. Rubinshtein (PIN) 9 Ways Social Harmony is Preserved Dystopia || 21st Century Socio-Political Critique by Mr. Kaiser Basileus (Part 1) The Rubinshteinic Realization of the Kindergarten https://www.philosocom.com/post/why-you-shouldn-t-murder https://www.philosocom.com/post/the-neurodivergent-sovereign ) (Background music) During his imprisonment, Socrates had a chance to escape his arranged execution thanks to his followers. However, he declined their proposal for him to escape , citing the importance of the law of the state to the formation and preservation of society, so going against it would be wrong and inconsistent with his morality. He argued that if everyone did whatever they wanted, especially if their actions were against the law, the institutions of society would be futile, leading to anarchy and the dismemberment of the state. This raises the question of whether the law should be obeyed at all costs, simply because obeying it will ensure the functioning of society. Do we need to obey the law, even when obeying it plays against us and, at times, our values? Here is my proposal on the topic of the law: I believe that the law should be obeyed at all times, except when the law plays against your very own survival. This is, of course, the exact opposite of what Socrates would think. That's because Socrates put the law on a pedestal, and seems to forget that not all law is moral or even beneficial. For example, rules that encourage or lead to genocide can for sure be regarded as immoral, correct? The reasoning behind my proposal is as follows: The state, after all, was created for its individual citizens —to provide them with safety, education, and reasonable living conditions. Any country that does not adequately, or at all, take care of its individuals, the same individuals that serve, even with their very lives, is ultimately a morally-incompetent country that lacks the power and resources to ensure its social contract, or does care very little of its citizens. It would only be beneficial to mutually care for each other when it comes to the state and its citizens. The taxes we pay should be there, ultimately, for the state to provide public services, a national defense budget, and so on. In a situation where obeying the law would put your survival at risk, it is my belief that you have a moral obligation to disobey the law. Why obey an authority that goes against your very interest to live? More specifically, why obey an authority that tries to weed you off? The law is not an absolute authority , and it does not supersede your right to life. In fact, the law itself is supposed to protect your right to life . Alongside other rights, of course, especially in a country that is supposed to be democratic. The exception for that can easily be in the fields of security and military. It is then when you are, in theory, obligated to protect the lives of your fellow countrymen. Then, you become an agent of your country; an extension of its arms. Police officers, for example, are but an extension of the law. Of course, there are many factors to consider when deciding whether or not to disobey the law. It is important to weigh the risks and benefits carefully, and to make a decision that is in your best interest. However, I believe that, in general, it is better to disobey the law when it puts your survival at risk in an unjust way. Not when it uses your protection services. It can be said that the relationship between a person and their country is one of " all for one, one for all ." In other words, all citizens give the state its power by obeying its laws, and in return the country provides them with certain services. However, if the state does not provide its citizens with the essential things all human beings require, such as safety and access to food, even if that country is a dictatorship, then it is technically reasonable to disobey its laws when the very act of disobedience contributes to your survival. It is why some revolutions and rebellions are justified by the very fact that the people at large need food and shelter, but do not have them, and live in poverty regardless of their efforts to live. Should one be able to overthrow an incompetent government in favor of a more efficient government... then why not, if it's beneficial for the people? Why would you obey someone who is intentionally starving you, locking you somewhere where you cannot sustain yourself, or exposing you to disease without providing medical care? After all, survival comes before the state. The state is a business that is there to provide for you, and you technically, work for it. Therefore, according to this logic, there are some countries where you should obey the laws completely and other countries where you should not obey the laws at all, even if disobedience puts you at certain risk. For example, if you are to escape from a country like North Korea, you put yourself at the risk of being shot. However, by attempting to escape, you can increase your long-term survival by having a more reasonable life in South Korea, where you can have not only greater freedoms but also greater access to food, money, and shelter. Wouldn't it be more reasonable to live the rest of your days in peace than in constant jeopardy of whether or not you will be able to see the light of day? To live in a future where you won't get beaten up by the authorities for very minor offenses? The authorities that should be there to care for you, not to oppress you? The most extreme example of when the law should be broken is in WWII concentration camps (and of course, escaping meant better survival). It is interesting to consider what Socrates would do if he was imprisoned in such a camp. Would he actually promote the same argument about the law of Nazi Germany as he did to the State of Athens ? Why would you stay when you can attempt to run, given that you are brave enough to do so, have a strong willpower, and so forth? Of course, there are also cases when you may be forced to break the law in order to survive. For example, if your business is ordered to be closed due to a COVID lockdown, and you have no other reasonable source of income to help you survive, you are then left with two options: you can either suffer in hunger with the risk of dying because of it, along with other state-enforced consequences; or you can try to gain money in any other way, even if that way is illegal. Of course, some people become thieves simply because they have no money and they need food. Not all thieves commit theft wholeheartedly. As previously mentioned, given that survival comes before the state (unless you are in service of the state such as in security or in the military), then things like theft or black market businesses are actually justified if it means you won't be able to sustain yourself -- to live, even -- in any other way. Would you prefer to die, when "above-ground" employment is absent for you? In such cases the ends justifies the means, unfortunately. Breaking the law should be the last result before your very death. It should be a product of desperation. And some of us do not only live for ourselves, but for others, too.

(Background music) (Corruption Directory) (Directory on Rectification and Help) (Philosocom's Directory on Sacrifice) (Kingdom Directory) In the perceived moral landscape , a truly good person can often be seen as a tireless activist, a social healer who sinks deep into the chaos of the world to rectify its wounds. Conventional wisdom dictates that the virtue of a good man is measured by his engagement, that to be good is to be present and participatory. However, in a world that feels increasingly corrupt, chaotic, and hostile to genuine virtue, a difficult and paradoxical question arises: What if the most ethical choice is not to engage with the world, but to strategically withdraw from it? The notion of isolation as a beneficial preserver of one's good nature, gives rise to the philosophy of the Benevolent Fortress. It is the idea that to preserve one's goodness, one must first build a sanctuary, a moral stronghold from which to interact with the world on one's own terms. The foundational premise of this philosophy is the acknowledgment of the outside world as a potentially corrupting force . Modern society, in all its unfairness , often operates on a set of values that are antithetical to a deep and abiding virtue—a relentless chase for profit , a celebration of superficiality, and a demand for social conformity that can destroy a unique and honest soul, or at least bring it to despair. To engage with such a world on its own terms is to risk a slow, inevitable erosion of one's own principles. It is to be stained by the very moral depravity one seeks to rectify. The Benevolent Fortress, then, is not an act of cowardice , but a necessary act of quarantine to protect a pure moral code from a sickened world. Building this fortress is therefore not an act of selfish isolation, but a profound moral imperative, meant to preserve one's good nature. It is the work of a guardian who understands that one cannot offer a light to the world if one allows the world's winds to extinguish their own flame. This act of separation is a recognition that true strength and virtue are precious and fragile resources and are therefore things to be guarded away from corrupt influence. They must be cultivated and nurtured in a controlled and protected environment, free from the toxic influences that would see them wither. The ruler of this internal kingdom, AKA, the truly good person, understands that his first duty is to the integrity of the realm itself, for a corrupt and compromised fortress can offer nothing of value to the lands beyond its walls. The laws of this fortress are, by necessity, strict and unforgiving. Its primary function is to strive creating a perfect, stable ecosystem where goodness can thrive, and the eternal battle over darkness be fought far more effectively. This requires a ruthless and unflinching management of one's own life. It means consciously sabotaging connections that bring darkness, discarding relationships that demand compromise, and limiting engagement to a small, trusted inner circle of allies and loyal subjects, fostering a small community based on mutual help and altruism. The peace of this kingdom, of a world within the world, is bought at the high price of connection, a price the sovereign ruler pays willingly, knowing that a vast and chaotic social life is a direct threat to the quiet and order his virtue requires to exist. Yet, this fortress is not a sealed tomb. It is a base of operations. The interaction with the outside world is not eliminated, but it is transformed. It becomes a factory in which a series of deliberate, purposeful, and highly controlled contributions, are given to the world, as means to rectify it. Imagine a single, well-guarded bridge as the only connection between the fortress and the world. Across this bridge, the ruler sends out his gifts—his art, his philosophy, his aid—as a benevolent offering for world rectification . Yet, the gates of the fortress , where its mastermind resides , remain closed. He or she contributes to the world without allowing the world to contaminate them. This is the very essence of ethical isolationism: to help, but from a necessary and protected distance. This difficult path is often the necessary destiny of the wounded healer. It is the man with a heart too big, a highly sensitive empath, who is most profoundly wounded by the world's injustices and is therefore most in need of a sanctuary. The fortress is a necessity for the eternal outsider , who is more often than not a writer or artist, who feels the world's suffering too deeply to bear constant, unfiltered exposure to it. The walls are not just to keep the world out; they are to hold the broken and beautiful heart of the ruler together. In the end, the philosophy of the Benevolent Fortress offers a new and challenging definition of what it means to be a good person. True virtue in a fallen world isn't necessarily about being a social martyr, bravely fighting until you are inevitably consumed by the chaos. Another option is available: the greater, more difficult, and more enduring form of goodness is the quiet, solitary, and courageous work of building and maintaining one perfect, small kingdom of light. That option is all about offering the fruits of that difficult labor to a world that may never understand the immense sacrifice required to create them, and from a distance. It is not a loud or celebrated heroism , but it is a deep, powerful, and lasting form of rectification, both of the world outside the fortress, and of the world within the fortress.

(Void directory) (Kingdom Directory) (Background music) No amount of articles will ever satisfy me, No amount of people saved shall as well save me. No amount of power will finally free me, No amount of goodness done shall give me peace. No amount of insights shall enlighten my emptiness, No amount of rectification shall fill my nothingness. No amount of achievements made shall make my void fade away, No amount of success shall make my day. My emptiness is vast as the sky itself, I'm the gift that keeps on giving for your behalf, For your behalf, for your-- No amount of poems written shall ever cure the inner rotten, No amount of art crafted shall deem the void ever lasted. No degree of empire building will save this sinking feeling. No amount of help done shall make the day won. My eternal void is never ending, But my empire is not merely self-serving, My void leads me to commit benevolence. No amount of dance shall give the chance, To forever free me from an empty day or month. The only answer to this menace is to face this internal cancer. My emptiness is vast as the sky itself, I'm the gift that keeps on giving for your behalf, For your behalf, for your-- I am empty as Eggman, Robotnik!

(Background music) Kramer and Newman dabble in quantum physics technology that would allow them to summon pizzas from the multiverse for their new pizza enterprise. However, their incompetence summons different philosophers from the original timeline. Furthermore, Kramer and Newman are transported back to the past. But because no one really cares about them, they just stay there and are never heard from again during the episode. They return in the next episode because that's how sitcoms work. Because there is no demand for philosophers in the nearby philosophy factories, it is up for Seinfeld to help Kant , Hobbes and Nietzsche to hook up with New York's ladies so they could find a place to live and continue their respective legacies.... And maybe even true love? For being the spineless man he is, Seinfeld allows the 3 philosophers to stay in his apartment. However, their constant discourse prevents him from making the terrible jokes no one really likes. So, he devised a plan with Elieen to hook the 3 men with her seemingly infinite inventory of female friends. Meanwhile, for the idiot he is, George eavesdropped on their scheme and honestly believed the philosophers are lesbians. Simping for chromo XX kind, George plans in solitude how to use his irresistible Constanza charm, which definitely worked in the past , to convert the "lesbians" to his "home turf" like a catholic priest. The attempt to dispose of the existential good-for-nothings are set in a restaurant called " Cabaret Caboose". On their way to the event, Seinfeld argued with Elieen over how overly sensitive lactose-intolerant people are. "At this point, I can't even make jokes about cheese, Elieen!" Impractically offended by this , because she had a stray cat who hated cheese and escaped her basement, Elieen whines in normalized infantility and abandons the group. For the profound mastermind Seinfeld is, he is now left with the three stooges on his own with the ladies. At "Cabaret Caboose", the date goes horribly awkward . For the profound intellects Elieen's girlfriends are, none of them were ever introduced to actual philosophy . Because they are flat in mind, not necessarily elsewhere, they think the 3 geniuses are in fact executives from "Philosophy", a skincare company. When their Platonic Cave-Like conception is revealed, Seinfeld tries to subvert their ignorance to his own interests, promoting their collective deception. However, the philosophers get mad as they begin inquiring about the horrible pain of not being understood by society. Collectively, they intend to leave and look for a way back to their own respective historical periods. You know, like the geeky killjoys they are. Unfortunately, the women were triggered because now they think they were talking about their periods. For god's sake! Remembering the one time he read Sun Tzu's "The Art of War" back in Florida, Seinfeld actually makes a smart decision and convinces the discouraged ladies to calm each other in the bathroom. Anyways, while the diversion tactic was in effect, Seinfeld asks the philosophers what's wrong with them. "What's wrong with you guys? I thought you were supposed to be smart!!" The philosophers then threaten Seinfeld that they will create an intellectualist syndicate solely for the degradation of his already-degraded material if he won't let them go. They told them that their combined wit will bring him much financial misfortune, so the categorical imperative is to let them set free. Degreeless, but not in a Rubinshteinic type of way , Seinfeld takes a deep zen breath and just tells them to be themselves with the ladies. That, the moral thing to do is to apologize for causing them grief and have a little bit of fun before both parties part ways. Further amused by his usually misused mind, the philosophers agree in unison. The ladies return from the bathroom, also trying to try and have a decent night out at the Cabaret. Their efforts are ruined by George, who enters the Caboose institution with over-the-top attire. He used all his savings just for that attire. He also bought a cane with a diamond and a top hat because he is "a philosopher". Ignoring the actual philosophers in front of his eyes, George introduces himself to the ladies and begins philosophizing with horrible logic in order to charm their brains. Kant, being a deontologist , begins fixing George every time he makes a fallacy in his arguments. Triggered by this, George begins to confront the little man and asks him what "he" does for a "living", that he "dares" challenge his rationale. Kant says that he's a deontologist. Having no idea what that means, George says he would break his teeth with his cane if he won't shut up. The philosophers laugh hysterically. Seinfeld left the scene thanks to Sun Tzu's wisdom, undetected. "Visiting my annoying parents does pay after all", he said to himself as he left. "Hmmm... Maybe I should return there as my personal conclusion to this episode... Seinfeld, you're the man with the plan!" "He is not a dentist you underutilized untermensch! " Nietzsche mocked George. "He is a deontologist!" "Yeah.... I knew that." He laughs awkwardly. "A teeth historian". Both the philosophers and the women laugh at the poor man. George begins to cry in distress. "I'm never going to get out of my parent's, aren't I?" Feeling sorry for his misfortune, one of the ladies offers to get to know him better.... personally. George gets excited and she commands him to wait outside, which he does without question. "I'm so glad I bought my shackles in my purse... Well, see you around!" the lady leaves with a joyous grin on her face after she turned around for the door.. "Well, Thomas, I guess we're just the four of us. I detect a plot hole in this flawed reality, because Kant is somehow gone too. And God is dead, so this is not even a cruel joke from a script writer from Olympus." Awkward silence. Hobbes finishes with a philosophical, punchline pickup. "Tonight, let us forge a social contract. Surrender your powers to me and my associate, and in return we will bear your company on our leviathans!" The ladies leave in disgust. Nietzsche leaves too. Hobbes lives the rest of his life as a New York homeless man.

(2023 Note: Now that I compared myself to other autists, I've realized I have Asperger's Syndrome, which can be considered part of ASD, or the Autism Spectrum Disorders. I, however, am no longer sure if I am indeed an autist, even though I was diagnosed with both Asperger's and ASD. Please, take this article with a grain of salt, as I expect you to do, with any of my articles). Introductory Poem by Mr. John Duran... For the Loonies: Welcome to insanity friend, We hope you enjoy your stay. You here with us, and us with you, What a wonderful day! Don't concern yourself with ugly terms like madness, These are just nonsense words after all, certainly nothing concerning you now nevertheless. Here you are free to be yourself, irrational, illogical, and lunatic as ya want! In fact, that's what we want you to do, after all Lets not consign your psyche to a mere shelf! So does the white jacket fit well? Snug enough we hope. Can we make any adjustments for your comfort today? Don't concern yourself, you'll be here awhile, I'm sorry to say... Part 1 I do not know for sure how the general population sees psychologists, but as someone who went to psychologists for more than a decade, I can confidently say that psychologists are not the same to the mind as medical professionals are to our bodies. Unlike medical doctors, psychologists don't heal. They might help us solve problems or better understand ourselves ; however, if you want to be mentally stable, the solution is not to pay loads of cash to psychologists, but to destroy the roots of your problems instead. I wrote how I did it personally in a certain miniseries on Philosocom called Accepting Reality. No matter how many meetings I had with that professional, psychological assistance did not help me to cope with my sensitivity to noise at all. Later on, I got into a personal phase I'd like to call the Reaping Fatigue Era . No psychologist helped me solve it. I instead had to solve it on my own, despite, at last, becoming a physical handicap for a year. I thought psychologists would help me. They didn't. I thus no longer take pride in my intelligence , but instead see it as a necessary way to mentally survive this world. Take my advice: Don't abuse children . I made sure all those who abused me are no longer present in my life. They do not deserve the honor. That is why I decided to stop going to psychologists . It isn't that they are not good at their jobs; it's just that they offer advice and don't necessarily heal you like medical professionals do. And of course, it isn't the job of medical professionals to heal you mentally. Psychologists merely help you to find possible solutions to your problems; it does not mean that these solutions would be effective, no matter how much you talk with them about said issues. I solved much of my issues myself, by going deeper into my psyche, and understanding the roots of my traumas. You basically pay a lot of cash just to speak with someone for around an hour. You could do so with anyone else who wants to talk with you. It isn't to say that psychologists are disposable; they're, in theory, just problem solvers on the personal/intimate scale. There is no guarantee that the money you will invest in their services will eventually pay off. Therefore, it is sort of a gamble, with the only price being your time and money. I am, in a way, glad that I don't go to psychologists anymore. I have realized that, if I take action and eliminate the roots of my problems, their [the psychologists'] functionality in my life would no longer be necessary. Why choose to suffer when you can eliminate the source of suffering ? Accept reality, and the truth can set you free. At the very least, it can relieve you of some of the unconscious passions that lead you to suffer. Because when you are abused in some way, your desires may be distorted permanently. And when my former love of my life calls me irrelevant and discards me without struggle, I may want to build an article empire to prove to humanity that she was wrong. Understanding the root of our problems can bring us clarity and thus, a little bit of calm at the very least. We might still suffer, we might still take medications . But we can still save ourselves tons of money that would otherwise be wasted on ineffective expert help. It is far better than remaining unaware of our origins. For our traumatic origins are also the origins of our wants and needs . For we are defined by our memories , conscious or otherwise, and as such we deserve to know it and not repress it under the metaphorical rug. The root of your mental problems might stem from the past. Explore them through contemplations. Do not escape, or they will resume governing you from the back of your mind. Analyze them. Understand how they manage you, how they shape the being that you came to be. You don't necessarily need an external hand for that process. You just need to reflect. Despite the pain you may experience, mental or even physical, covering it from the shadows it is embedded in, can set you free from it more. And for free, too. Part 2 The thing about psychology is that it cannot cure you of mental disorders like doctors can cure you of diseases. Many people don't realize that, once you have a mental disorder, there is no going back. In other words, there are no cures for mental illnesses , and the pills you may take are merely delayers, not medicine to heal your wounds. This is why the consumption of therapy would burn a hole in your pocket UNLESS you actually solved the root of your problems yourself (or with help, I guess). In my case, it won't matter how much I speak with the professional I used to visit; I will forever be sensitive to noise because it is a part of my Asperger's, and that service will not make people stop tormenting me with yells they are legally allowed to make. The state does not care if I suffer. Society does not care. Therefore, with their lack of empathy, they are hostile to me. The only practical solution would be to move somewhere quieter. Now I can tell you that, two years of living somewhere completely different has been a far, far more practical solution than going to a psychologist for years on end. Now that I am aware that I will have these disorders for the rest of my life, unless there is a cure for them, I will have to learn to live with them, even if it means making compromises. For people like me, it is unfortunate to say that compromising is sometimes the best solution, if not a complete escape. There are no rules in my country that forbid people from screaming during the appropriate hours; I just had to find somewhere else to live where people would be more tolerant of my unwanted sensitivity. I sure hope that I will not have to see a psychologist ever again. It's not that I hate psychologists, which I don't; there are just better alternatives to solving issues than just talking about them and hoping for the best. It was my decision to move elsewhere, and who knows how much money I saved by doing so; money that would otherwise go to weekly sessions... Conclusions Psychologists are like modern-day sages , but that does not mean that they can cure you of your disorders or solve all of the problems that come with having them. When are psychologists at their best? It's when you're, highly depressed , or are in any kind of state that requires short-term consultation in a state of distress. They can be there to calm you, listen to your thoughts, and even cheer you up. Ultimately, they are people you hire to listen to you and provide feedback that MIGHT help you. Their ultimate contribution comes when they prevent taking one's own life or make you more mentally stable, even if the illnesses of your mentality are still there. I also wrote on mental health before. More specifically, mental illness.

(Philosocom Igal Sh.'s Articles) (Philosocom's Directory on Beauty and Art) (Disclaimer: The guest posts do not necessarily align with Philosocom's manager, Mr. Tomasio Rubinshtein's beliefs, thoughts, or feelings. The point of guest posts is to allow a wide range of narratives from a wide range of people. To apply for a guest post of your own, please send your request to mrtomasio@philosocom.com) Mr. Emmanuel David's Synopsis: "Painting a Hologram" explores the concept of finding meaning in one's craft and introduces a new dimension of art: holography. It introduces a technique called "materialistic holographic painting," which combines traditional materials to create holographic effects. This method is accessible, less expensive, and made by hand, making it intriguing for traditional artists. The article emphasizes the importance of understanding light, optics, and the periodic table to create desired holographic effects. The author emphasizes the importance of passion and time in mastering this new art form. (Background music) INTRODUCTION In Art, regardless of the medium, there is no right and wrong way, there's only creative expression, and how its perceived -- John Duran You can never find the meaning of life, but you can understand the meaning of what you do. Only by mastering your craft, you may understand its true meaning. I feel that I have accomplished a fair understanding of what art is and what it will be in the traditional sense. However, I also believe that there is much more to it than meets the eye of even the most knowledgeable art critic. In this book, I will take you to a different and barely touched dimension of art: holography. Some scientists claim that "the universe is a big hologram.” For a normal human with a physical perspective on reality, this can be hard to believe. However, holography in traditional art is possible to make, as you will see. I have found that the materials we use in paintings have peculiar and distinct properties. They react to light in many ways, and each has a code. This means that they can be used in a certain manner to make a certain effect. Understanding these materials and their effects is the key to unveiling the purpose they have to serve. Different light conditions can contrast different notions of the painting. Some holographic techniques are better than others in some aspects and worse in others. However, I have used a totally different approach to those techniques, ironically using old traditional ones. The name for this technique is “materialistic holographic painting " and it derives from the combination of materials rather than singular one like in holographic photography which uses certain crystalized film that captures laser light from different directions deflected from an object, which rearranges the crystal formation with in the film to form a reflected copy of this object. This method is wonderful, and it even gave its inventor Dennis Gabor the Nobel Prize. But still, it has limitations, in terms of depth of space, colour, angle of view, distance, and the light conditions to see it properly. Also, it is an expensive setup to make at home and it's created not by a human but a machine which makes it less intriguing to me as a traditional artist. Materialistic holography painting, on the other hand, is made by hand with fairly cheap materials, it has no colour limitation, and less lightening conditional problems, also in the sense of distance and view angle limitations it can prove to work better in some cases because there is no limit to the width of a layer like in the holographic film. What is also interesting is the connections this new technique has in regards to how materials behave in nature, how they are layered and how they react to light. Most people tend to believe something only when they see it, but do we really understand what we see there? The sight in a sense shows reality which our mind has retrieved from data that our senses collected, but it is powered by light and it may also illuminate illusions. I found that light can be bent and captured in a way and also controlled to show us what normally we cannot see. The means serve the purpose, and therefore we will be concentrating on the technique layer by layer showing the research behind it, I must note that there are lots of ways to do it properly and with good results but every painting has its own set of rules. I established these techniques and rules through long research and we will see other ways to do it but they have more to do with style, like, realistic verses expressionistic and others, they have a different set of effects but the rules are basically the same. There is a lot more to it than I can point right now because there is lots more research to do, and I hope we together can continue this mission and bring the holographic painting closer to tradition. Last but not least, to make such a painting you need passions, it may take a lot of time, and as I will show you it actually can be endless… Light Holography is the science of making a hologram, the meaning of this word comes from Greek which mean Holos- whole, and Graphe means drawing, but this description does not fit to what it is today. To begin, we will start by trying to understand basically the role of optics in this technique. Light is an energy which has speed and direction, it can be deflected from an object or absorbed in it, those two negatives, give us the ability to control materials to make a huge spectrum of reaction to light. Light has also a direction and therefore when it is deflected from an object it may change its direction depending on the angle of the impact. You can notice that when we look at a painting or a print from different angles we will see less of the image than what is seen from the front side, and that’s because the surface deflects light virtually blinding us. But we can notice something in that situation which we can’t notice otherwise like matt layers, just like dirt on the floor, or fingerprints on the table, this shows us other opposing factors which we will discuss and use later. Light has the ability to go through layers and change its output, from cold to hot and from one colour to the other. As we established, light can be absorbed and deflected, we will notice that these characteristics are controlled by the type of matter we put on a certain layer. That creates a phenomena in which we can see illumination of light above the surface of the painting under some conditions (in my theory this happens by the slowing of light “particle”). What is most important to understand is that making a painting is basically playing with light in every way possible by the medium that we work in. MATERIALS The materials that painters have used and still use are, in some way, too traditional. What I mean is that in a painting, we will find a different set of materials that have a certain effect, like the medium presents, but only to give a certain feel to the image in the painting. That's only one part of the story I will tell. Of course, we need the traditional understanding of geometrical, color, and tonal perspectives, as well as different compositions and other basics. However, this book relies on the painter who reads it to know those traditional rules and rely on them as well. This specific technique is not specific to using only one type of material. In fact, it will use many of them simultaneously on one painting, because each material has its own characteristics and they will be helpful somewhere along the process. In fact, we will use mostly varnish and fixative, but their role is much different from the role of the other materials, like color spray, oil colors of different sorts, ink-based and alcohol-based markers and pens, acrylic, watercolors, tempera, and we will discuss more potential materials like chalk, glow-in-the-dark colors, and nail polish. We will also see and try to understand the periodic table and see how different materials react to light. It is important to understand that the pigment of a colored material has only traditional meaning in this holographic technique. Traditionally, paintings are done on many different layers depending on the material used. For example, oil paintings are mostly done on a canvas covered with gesso or acrylic at first so that it will not be exposed to moisture underneath. Watercolors or ink are done on a certain paper to soak up the water, and alcohol-based colors are done on plastic or polymer-based paper. However, in our technique, we use a thick cardboard board! This is because we need the sheet to absorb up to a certain point. This creates a contrast between the absorbed material and the one laid on top of the surface, which also adds to the 3D effect that is noticeable from the beginning. Materials are categorized by their solution content, but pigmentation is a more general additive. Therefore, we may also use a material with no additive of that sort (oil pastel with no pigment). Materials substitute reality, meaning that varnish or fixative replaces air, metallic replaces light, and normal colors replace natural objects, as in known traditional art. For example, we can see the use of metallic colors in iconography and many forms of classic art, which were meant to replace light as well as other needs. They are also used in their original sense, such as in painting jewelry. We can also see on some of those works the use of wood carved bumps and holes to make the painting seem more 3D. LAYERS We can describe visual nature as a three-dimensional space, as each object in that space is known mathematically to have three coordinate systems: x, y, and z. Therefore, this object can be viewed from many angles. Two-dimensional (2D) space, on the other hand, consists of a maximum of two coordinate systems and represents part of a 3D object. It is made of a single flat surface. There is a big misconception today in which actual 3D objects are seen as 2D. For example, a sheet of paper is actually a 3D object. This abstraction makes us see reality in a narrow point of view, and it is still considered to be true enough for the naked eye to see. In this book, we will make a distinction and show that actual 2D objects only exist in theory. From a great distance, everything seems two-dimensional. Therefore, we will try to amplify reality to show that it is actually 3D. Any object can be split into a number of 2D layers to a certain extent. We will see that creating a holographic painting is amplifying this 2D object to make it look 3D. I call each layer "2.5D" because it serves me well to treat it as part of 3D. If we take a closer look at a real classic oil painting, we can actually see the effect created by a combination of layers. Because it is oil, we can actually see through it, in some cases more and in some less. This is due to the number of layers, their thickness, and color. It is just like seeing the veins under the skin. The actual purpose of a certain layer is to give additional information to the layers beneath and to serve the ones above. If you try to establish all the information on one layer, you will lose most of the effects we need to create on a holographic painting. Although the potential is there, it will be lost completely to the naked eye. Another interesting thing to notice in drawings and traditional art in general is that creating an object inside the painting was always done by making sets of strokes. In the classic sense, they provide information about the object. For example, round or diagonal strokes can be used to create a round object, as if we were sculpting it with our hands. As we collect more and more sets of strokes from different directions, we make the shape seem more uniform and smooth. We will see how this technical part helps us to create a real form by creating an illusion of it. That is why I believe that traditional art serves us greatly here. We will also see how each layer theoretically casts a shadow on the bottom layer depending on the light direction. This interestingly serves us a great deal with creating the holographic illusion, enabling us to see it from different directions. We will examine this closer in other chapters. VALUES Values are basically tones, and we can see any picture as a collection of values. Any colored image can be seen also in black and white, the same picture but only in values of light and dark. This understanding serves us greatly in the creation of a holographic painting. Values from white to black are not absolute, because the white and black colors are not absolute in terms of the materials we use, due to the effect of light on them, just like in nature. However, an astronomical black hole is totally black, and sunlight can be absolutely white. So, we will use materials that may get us closer to absolute values, such as matte black oil, chalk, or ink. Silver materials can show real light, which can be lighter than the white color we use. The matte effect has a unique signature, but it can be measured on the same type of scale we use for values. However, it is harder to identify the effect and control it. Only if we look at the painting from an angled viewpoint to the light can we see it in full scale and understand the true meaning of this holographic layering technique. Metallic colors are also hugely important. They can change values under different conditions. Sometimes they will appear lighter, and sometimes darker. This change creates movement. We need that movement both from the perspective of an observer and from the changes in the surrounding light. Mid-gray is a very elusive tone. The viewer will always find it hard to pinpoint it. That is because the contrast lies between black and white, and mid-gray is like the zero between them. It is important in cases where we want to make something fade out or disappear. Values give us the ability to see objects and judge their form. In 2D traditional art, values create the illusion of form. This concept is also very important to us because it gives us the ability to flatten 3D objects. As contradictory as it may sound, it actually helps us to compress the layers enough to make a hologram, not an actual 3D object. This is similar to many epoxy layering techniques, which are essentially sculptures. That's why the compression of layers in this new technique relies on old traditional techniques. These techniques give us the knowledge of compressing real life into one 2D object: a painting. PROGRESSION To me, the balance we try to find in each painting must not only have good balanced compositions (color, geometry, tone, etc.), but also have a good balance between the effects of light that we build up in the layers. These effects can actually be seen appearing and progressing on the painting. First, let's divide all the effects we see into two main families: primary and secondary. primary effects are the intense family of effects that are present in color, tone, reflective, matte, etc. We cannot use primary effects all over the painting, otherwise we will kill the balance we are looking for. For example, in traditional art, we never use primary effects in the background of an important object, so as not to draw attention. Secondary effects are the family of effects that we recognize visually later and are there to represent space and depth of field. We can always hide primary effects and make them secondary, under a new layer of varnish or other material. If a primary effect is covered by another layer, its effects are reduced and it becomes secondary. We have two ways of detecting this. One is from a frontal view, where we can see the reduction of brightness and the tinting of the bottom layer. We can also notice the lower temperature of the color than before. The other view is from a side angle to the painting, any side angle. There, we can see the reduction of matte effects and the saturation of the image. In some stages, when the cardboard can still soak up varnish and water, we can identify the matte that originates from the cardboard. Later, when it can no longer soak up, we need to recreate it with the materials in hand, such as oil-based or matte varnish, for example. We keep the primary effect always on the last layer we make, with the right intensity we are looking for. THE IMAGE I went through many stages in my art career, trying to taste all styles and all techniques I could. I found that a style fits to some ideas, but a subject cannot be subjective to a certain style alone. I always felt there was something bigger going on. Throughout history, art has progressed with people, and it has always told stories of religion and history. It teaches us not only about those things, but more importantly, about the world surrounding us. Traditional art to me is a science , a subject of slow evolution , constructed brick by brick. My book is about combining those bricks and others to create a whole new reality of what painting is to me. The first step is understanding the process, and through that process, we will learn what is behind it and what lies under those bricks, the foundation. An image is a collection of geometrical patches, they both carry information of light and form, which our mind rebuilds to describe in details. Details are mostly what our mind concentrates on, and therefore it cannot see the whole picture at first glance. This is due to a selective process we go threw to understand the hole image. This process can take a long time and it is called adaptation . New images usually take longer to adapt, as well. Basically, what happens is that our mind burn the image bit by bit to form it, in such a way that the longer you look the longer this image will last in memory, as an example, when we look at a bright patch of light for long enough it will burn and attach the patch on top of a current image like when we look at the sun. Our eyes are the operator that passes that info, but it has certain limits, it cannot focus on the whole image at once and therefore it moves, the closer to the centre the more clear the image will be. In addition, we concentrate on movement, traditional art describes movement as angular lines in opposition to static structures that are orthogonal or horizontal, and therefore we will remember them better. As I said, an image is a collection of patches, each image is a collection of huge amount of patches, some of them carry the same values and colour, and if we reduce an image to those alone we will see a spread of patches on the picture surface, it is easily done on the computer using Photoshop or other photo editing programs. Most of the layers we will create in the holographic painting will be a reduced collection of patches, and they will carry only bits of information about the final image.

For more on this rationality, click here . (For Philosocom's directory for articles on money, click here) "The world would be a far happier and better place if we learned to live on less instead of always pursuing more" -- John Duran (Background music) The True Nature of Wealth Wealth is not a destination, but a journey. It is not measured in possessions, but in the mastery of one's resources.  The foolish chase after the latest trends , the extravagant, and the unnecessary. The wise, however, cultivate a lifestyle of efficiency and frugality. Wealth is a tangible force, a tangible reality. But it is not found in the accumulation of possessions, nor in the pursuit of material excess. Wealth, true wealth, lies in the efficient allocation of resources, possible through effective decision-making methods. The Trap of Hedonism The extravagant, the hedonistic, they are beings whose foolishness is a resource of bigger corporations. They chase shadows, and grasp at shallow marvels. They waste away their fortunes on fleeting pleasures, on momentary indulgences and on love interests who do not share the same feelings as they do. They are like moths drawn to a flame, doomed to perish in the heat of their own desires by failing to criticize the passions they follow. The Rubinshteinic Way: Optimization Over Excess Seek not the excessive,  but the optimal . Replace the costly with the clever. Free games can rival the grandest titles  and also the "casino" transactional games found in your smartphone.  As such, free knowledge can surpass the most expensive courses, sparing you money.  The internet, a vast archive of information and entertainment that can compete social interactions,  offers a treasure trove of free resources. You just need to pay the relevant bills to access it, of course. However, the Rubinshteinic way is this path which demands discipline.  Sacrifice the immediate gratification for long-term gain.  Resist the hypnotizing corporate songs of consumerism.  Find financially healthier ways to heal the frustrating feeling of boredom and FOMO that motivates it (also possible using the internet).   For in the rejection of excess lies a hidden treasure. A fortune forged not by endless spending, but by mindful consumption, necessary to carry out a more rectified world , and a better life. Strategy and Simplicity Researching the power of frugality in empire-building video games.  I have discovered that true wealth is not measured in possessions, but being able to device plans to the point that the mastermind who devises them , gains or retains his/her peace of mind. Embrace the simplicity and  live a life of abundance. With depth and meaning, not with shallow extravagance.  For in pursuit under a monotonous framework,  you shall discover, and even execute, the formation of the extraordinary. The Power of Free Knowledge Consider the humble library as a case example. A world of knowledge awaits within its walls. Borrow books,  magazines, and DVDs. Immerse yourself in different worlds, expand your horizons, and learn new skills without spending a dime. Must everything in life be monetized? Online courses, tutorials, and webinars offer a wealth of educational content.  From learning a new language to mastering coding, the possibilities are endless, and some of them are free of charge, like Philosocom itself. The Art of Living: Dining, Commuting, and Style When it comes to entertainment, explore free options. Watch movies and TV shows on streaming platforms with ad-supported plans. Listen to podcasts and audiobooks on places such as Youtube and Spotify. Discover (or-rediscover) the joy of reading. In your daily life, seek out free activities. Visit parks, museums, and libraries. Explore nature trails. Enjoy the simple pleasures of life. Even the simplest of teas, spent on a romantic evening with your partner, can give you much joy and further cherish your relationship. When it comes to dining, cook at home.  It's healthier , cheaper, and will help you depend less on expensive food distributors. Plan your meals, buy in bulk, and cook in large quantities, if you have the time , to spare yourself the stress of hunger, and to bring forth the joy of appetite. When it comes to transportation, walk, bike,  or use public transportation whenever possible. Carpooling and ridesharing can also help reduce costs, but try not make enemies out of those who try to help you. In your wardrobe, focus on quality over quantity. Invest in timeless pieces that will last for years. Shop second hand stores and thrift shops for affordable clothing. Stop buying expensive branded clothes just to win the validation of your peers. When it comes to hobbies and interests, explore free options. Join clubs, groups, and communities. Participate in online forums and discussions. Partake in peaceful exchanges of ideas to learn about new things without spending much money on degrees. Becoming the Sovereign: Frugality as Freedom Remember, that frugality is not about deprivation.  Rather, it's about utilizing the power of choices to maximize your resources without excessive investing. Frugality can help you find joy in the simple things, and to be living a more meaningful life, while reducing financial concerns. It's about making conscious choices that align with your values and goals, without resorting to unnecessary compromises of your fabric of happiness . By living a more minimalist lifestyle, dictated not by restraint but by the intellect, you can free yourself, more and more, from the tyranny of debt and create a more sustainable future. A future where you become the Sovereign of your own life. Discover the hidden wealth within yourself , and use that wealth as well, not just money. By using your inner light for the greater good, you can live a life of abundance, without extravagance. Peace doesn't always have to be found in over-extensive conflict, but in the success of the calculating, long-term mind

The Directory on Freedom Death, Freedom and Intersubjectivity - The Philosophy of Shared Perception On Freedom -- Understanding The Complexities of Freedom As Humans The Internet, Modern Technology, Materialism and Freedom -- How To Better Use Our Assets External Detachment For Internal Freedom -- How To Develop an Inner Core Limiting Freedom In the Name of Freedom -- How Limiting Corporations Can Increase General Freedom My Philosophy on the Freedom of Choice -- Why It's Fine Making Mistakes (In General) How Cancel Culture Influences Freedom of Speech (By Mr. E. Peter, Mr. J. Igwe and Mr. E. David) Childhood's Absent Element The Dark Side of Liberty -- How It Breeds Sociopathy What Should You Do With Your Life (I Think) -- How To Become A Self-Sovereign The Paradox of Modern Liberty: Examining Freedom's Hidden Constraints The Hymn of Expression The Fourth Philosocom Day Speech -- Building A Beacon of Intellectual Freedom Together The Rubinshteinic Guide to Deal With Longing https://www.philosocom.com/post/shadow-woman https://www.philosocom.com/post/mortal-kombat-2 https://www.philosocom.com/post/enemy-weakness-poem https://www.philosocom.com/post/free-thinking https://www.philosocom.com/post/equation Article Summary by Mr. Lucien Sage The Prison of Freedom: A Philosophical Experiment, Story and Directory" is an article that explores the paradox of absolute freedom and its potential to become a form of imprisonment. It uses a philosophical thought experiment to explore the consequences of living without accountability , arguing that such power could lead to moral corruption, detachment from reality, and loss of meaning in actions. Drawing from philosophy, religion, and fiction, the article explores how unrestricted freedom can erode one's moral compass, making individuals susceptible to nihilism and ethical decay. The concept of "The Prison of Freedom" is introduced as a state where excessive freedom can lead to isolation , purposelessness, and psychological entrapment. The article also includes a fictional allegory to illustrate how the pursuit of limitless freedom can result in servitude to one's desires. Mr. Tomasio concludes by suggesting that intellectual discipline can help mitigate regret and make more conscious choices.  (Background music) The Prison of Freedom Going free is not only physical, it is first of all mental . -- Mickey Eilon What if you had all the freedom you could have as a choice-maker? What if all your choices won't have any permanent consequences, as long as you can restart reality, and render them from ever existing? What if you could make these choices over and over again without the need to have any remorse whatsoever, no guilt and no shame? What would you do if each of your external actions could be undone in an instant in this philosophical scenario? People who lack a strict code of virtue, and with subpar critical thinking, can easily be corrupted by such immense power over reality In Judaism , it is said that a person's life is like an entire world. What if you could take away that world and all the things contained within it, only to restore it as if the very taking had never happened? In reality, some amount of fear or caution is required in order to live wisely and honorably. If you discard someone aggressively, most chances are that they will not come back. If you loot someone's house, they might lose their belongings and even become penniless. Both actions can get irreversible implications. In this philosophical scenario, however, all actions are reversible. When the actions are reversible so are their consequences, either positive or negative. If this philosophical scenario was applicable to real life, many would find themselves as corrupt as the nihilistic villain from Final Fantasy 6, Kefka. Thus, we can deduce from this that most humans are easily prone to corrupt trends, and that the ability to restrain oneself, always has to come from within the self, not necessarily from others. This of course reflects on the weak moral nature of most of humanity. In such omnipotent scenario, which I call "The Prison of Freedom", The average person could easily become an awful, manipulative megalomaniac in the name of validation from others and in the name of immense wealth and so on. This also implies that it is not lucky to trust most people . A prisoner of your own immense freedom over time, like the time titan Kronika or the Greek God Chronos, you might realize that you're not as godly as you might think. The more you restore time over and over again, your actions could be perceived by yourself as utterly meaningless . The suffering of many wouldn't matter to you, as your brain would be hardwired to just reverse back the their misery over and over again. Many evil deeds that you may act, wouldn't matter to you the more you do it ( compare this to a butcher whose deeds are elementary to them ). This is the dark side of enlightenment: When you reduce events many would consider historically significant, to mere data. People with such darkened wisdom can do much malice in this world if their morals are not strict and/or sufficiently determined. This is what made me create the hypothetical idea that I'd like to call "The Prison of Freedom": The idea that even in such power over reality, one is not free from their own immense loneliness... In actual prisons, you are physically confined and can't do much. In such confinement, especially when it is solitary, mastery of mental survival is quite imperative... Now, when you are in the prison of this philosophical thought experiment, you are basically sucked into a pocket dimension where you can play God by having control over time. However, when you leave the dimension's territory, you lose all your godly powers forever. As such, the prison of freedom is a subverted, unconventional concept of what is traditionally considered freedom and confinement... Sometimes, there is a lot of freedom inside of small rooms and hermitages. Sometimes, the freedom is only within an environment where you are allowed to be yourself. To quote Alex Mos: "There is a lot of freedom in the house." Bonus: The Tale of Razor the Blackguard And the Undead Sage The torchlight casts a series of shadows and lights across Razor's grim features. He stood before the sage, a figure surrounded by mist and mystery. As the air of the sage's lair, hung thick with the scent of fatigue and despair, a constant reminder of the voices that echoed in Razor's skull, urging him to wreck destruction across the lands . Driven by a desperate need to escape from such ill voices, he sought redemption from the sage, a figure of unconventional research , whose words held a chilling promise. "You seek redemption , barbarian," the sage intoned, his voice a low hum. "But redemption comes at a price." Razor, haunted by the voices urging him to commit horrible acts, barely paid attention. He craved an escape, a way to silence the whispers echoing in his skull. As such, the strange, troubled man asked with no critical thinking: "What price?", with a rough voice. "A town but not just any town..." the sage offered, his voice smooth. " A place where the value of a life has no concrete meaning . There, you may slay as you please, and I will restore . You will gain your voices' tempt, without guilt or shame. " Hope flickered in Razor's weary eyes. "And the lives I've already taken?" he asked, his voice trembling in fear and in regret. "Those, I cannot restore," the sage replied. "However, in this town, your future killings will be… inconsequential. A cycle of death and rebirth, as eternal and meaningless as they come. That town is forsaken by the law, for even the common law of the land respects a being as wise as myself. Thus, this town is only my own... " Razor, desperate for release from the fear of being locked up, didn't see the trap that shall imprison him in a different type of prison. After all, what the mind cannot conceive, it cannot achieve.. The runaway blackguard agreed, eager to escape the torment of his inner demons. As he entered the sage's portal, Razor became a prisoner in his own paradoxical paradise , a butcher in a pocket dimension he could never leave, even if he wanted to. There, he was absolutely safe, but at what cost..? The sage, watching from the shadows, smiled in malice. He had acquired a powerful weapon, a warrior bound to his will, trapped in a gilded cage of his own innovative creation. Razor, the barbarian, had sought redemption, but found only a new form of servitude. In a way, Razor was never free to begin with, and always a subordinate to the tyranny of circumstance... Years passed. Razor, a ghost of his former self, roamed the streets of the town, a hermit in a place he once called his own home . The voices, once an internal explosion of rage , now whispered of boredom, of the monotony of endless slaughter and resurrection. A weaker mind, the enslaved warrior struggled with boredom greatly. The sage, meanwhile, watched, his patience enduring hard as iron. The time for his execution of his grand design was drawing near. ... Personal Commentary If I were in a "prison of freedom" of my own making, I would replay the same conversations I had with Ms. Chen, my perceived antagonist , and see what she would say if I chose different responses to her responses. I will do so over and over again until I better understand her fully beyond my current theory of mind on her. As such, a practical prison of freedom would be a place ideal for endless virtual simulations. After time after I'd finish a certain route, I will restart and learn more by trying a different path. Then, when I believed I had all the information I needed, I would discard this godly ability, simply because I didn't need it any further. Things are necessary until they are necessary no more. From devices to entire organizations. Questions for Reflection Do you have things you regret doing, or at least, things you would've liked to have gone otherwise? What if we could "load" and "save" from our past, make different decisions, and thus create and live a different route? Then, regret will not have to be necessary for those who feel sorrow for their life decisions. Life isn't a video game or a "prison of freedom", although it can be seen as similar to a role play game. Every action has the potential for irreversible consequences, or "points of no return". Is that a risk you're willing to take? Can you truly "save" your life from the consequences of your choices, as you might in a video game? Perhaps, if you're intellectual enough , you can live your life as if you were confined to such a prison of freedom. However, it can make you come off as very eccentric by this world, and even by your own dear ones. What is the ultimate lesson to be learned from this realization? Remember, all lessons are personal. Look within yourselves and see what you make of such an article.

(Articles on the philosophy of names: https://www.philosocom.com/post/what-s-in-a-name-names-as-rewards https://www.philosocom.com/post/the-ballad-of-tom https://www.philosocom.com/post/name-as-identity-rebranding-yourself-by-ms-panama-dusa ) The Rubinshteinic Philosophy of Names (Background music) Commonly, names are simply combinations of sounds we use to address one another. At their most fundamental level, they serve as utility tags—tools to distinguish individual A from individual B. However, if we choose to view names as more than mere identifiers, they begin to hold a heavier significance. Could a name potentially reflect a life's purpose or destiny ? While this idea often lives in the realm of superstition or unconscious bias, it is a possibility we should not dismiss outright. The Logic of Fiction : Names as Prophecy In fiction, names almost always carry a teleological weight—they symbolize the character's function within the narrative. Scar  ( The Lion King ): Named not only for his physical disfigurement but for the emotional scarring he inflicts on the kingdom. Darth Vader  ( Star Wars ): Alludes to "Invader" and the Dutch word for "Father," foreshadowing his role long before the plot reveals it. Lazlo  ( Suikoden IV ) : The name means "Glorious Ruler," and he becomes exactly that—a commander and leader of nations. In stories, names are promises. They are clues left by the author about who the character must  become. The Chaos of Reality However, reality is rarely as neat as fiction. Life isn't a structured plot with a clear beginning, middle, and end. Many of us lead ordinary lives that do not fit the grandeur of our names. A man named "Victor" may lose every battle he fights. A woman named "Grace" may be clumsy. Our lives unfold in chaotic arcs, indifferent to whether our next chapter is worthy of being written down. We do not all have clearly defined villains or definitive conclusions other than death. When a relationship ends, the curtains don't descend; life simply carries on. Therefore, it is difficult to conclude scientifically that names determine our fate . Surely, a few letters on a birth certificate are not enough to alter the laws of physics or economics, correct? The Cosmic Writer Hypothesis However... what if they do? The question of whether names influence destiny depends entirely on whether there is a "Cosmic Writer." If the universe is random:  Names are just sounds. If the universe is authored:  Names might be the script. As long as we remain in the realm of the unknown regarding God or cosmic forces, we cannot deny the possibility of Nominative Determinism, or the theory that people are psychologically predisposed to pursue occupations or interests that resemble or evoke their names in some way . If we cannot disprove the existence of a higher power , we cannot disprove the existence of a fate prescribed in our given names. Maybe the universe is one big stage, defined by a writer unseen by us, but recognized through our sense of logic and pattern recognition. The Philosopher as Heretic Consider the name Thomas . It refers to Thomas the Apostle—the doubter. If one bears a name linked to doubt or heresy, does that predispose them to the life of a philosopher? To philosophize is, by definition, to doubt. It is to be a heretic to the status quo. Spinoza  and Solomon Maimon  were considered heretics by their communities and persecuted for their questions. Socrates   was executed for "corrupting the youth" with his constant questioning. Ludwig Wittgenstein  was so skeptical he attempted to solve ( and end) philosophy entirely. There is no good philosopher who is not skeptical. If your name implies questioning, perhaps your destiny is to dismantle the illusions of the world. The Power of Renaming This leads to a crucial realization: If a name is destiny, then changing your name is an act of rewriting your fate. Many cultures practice name-changing to alter a person's luck or character. If a person feels their birth name represents "naivety" or "innocence," and they wish to acquire wisdom, they may feel a psychological compulsion to change that name. To lose one's innocence is imperative for wisdom. You cannot understand the world's flaws if you remain purely innocent. Therefore, adopting a name that reflects " maturity " or " sovereignty " might actually change how you interact with the world—not because of magic, but because of Self-Perception . Conclusion: The Causal Fallacy? Is this the Causal Fallacy ? Are we confusing cause and effect? Do we become our names, or do we simply fit our names into the narrative we want to believe? If my understanding is not impaired by this fallacy, it is possible that names affect the course of our lives by dictating how others see us, and more importantly, how we see ourselves. I suggest you look at your own name. Look at its meaning, its history, and its sound. Does it align with who you are? Or are you fighting against it? Perhaps knowing your name is the first step to knowing yourself.