(Background music) Do not be afraid to use your own thinking when you have a decision to make. Always relying on other people and sources may result in the decrease of one’s ability to think and compose independently and more freely from external influence. Society deserves critics so it won't solidify its own herd mentality. 2. On the other hand, always consider the opinions of others. The advancement of the mind and of the intellect is built on controversy and skepticism. Try to not dismiss their opinions so easily when you can use them to further understand reality and/or yourself. Even when there is a disagreement, it is nevertheless possible, and the realistic option, to accept that other people think differently from you. Their different viewpoints shouldn't threaten you when both them and their opinions can become beneficial to you becoming a better person A controversial opinion shouldn't be condemned just because of its mixed perception. It might as well be controversial specifically because it can contribute more exceptionally. You cannot tolerate other opinions under the majority's tyranny of cancel culture . Do not shut out resources that can potentially contribute To you and the ambitions you wish to achieve in this life. Other viewpoints could also be seen as such. 3. Always respect the authorities, even if you find them and their policies irrational. That is unless they're actually threatening you . Even when there is a possible clash, it is always important to remember that the authorities are there to serve the citizenry, the public order, and the security of the country. At least in theory, that is their business interest . It is possible (if you live in a democracy) to state your disagreement with the law by words of complaint, and violence is not recommended if you wish to stay free from imprisonment and harm. It would be recommended, however, if they are actively violent towards you, and seek to kill you or your people (ethnic group, family, etc.). Then, freedom is to be fought for, collectively, in the name of a better future. For there is no greater irrational policy than a country that seeks to counter-intuitively dispose of its own people in the name of maintaining power ( See the Cambodian genocide as an example ) . 4. Revenge on others is futile when it is possible to accept and acknowledge the issue, take responsibility, grow up mentally , and forgive the one who made you resent them. Even if forgiving is hard , you might find out that there are times where it is beneficial for your interests to do so. Gradually, you can find other things to occupy your mind. Try to appreciate your limited time, instead of killing it through pointless pursuits (AKA, pursuits that yield no benefit). 5. Fun does not always ensure health, security, or any other benefit beyond itself. This is what makes fun absurd . Be careful not to give in to fun temptations and seductions if they may unnecessarily hurt you or others in the future. Even agony has its benefits . Back to fun -- there are alternatives for it that are harmless and safe, allowing you to enjoy your time without unnecessarily making your experience risky or expensive. If we want to respect and tolerate all forms of fun we better also understand the downsides of each form. Traveling abroad, for example, could make you end up in prison in a foreign country if you accidentally break its rules. In Laos, for example, some drug dealers may turn you in to the police if you buy their goods. You can have a fun time doing something else in that nation, without resorting to practicing extreme caution. 6. Always be thankful for those who have helped you and promoted you in life. Human beings are not tools of chess. They are entities with thoughts and feelings of their own. They may either make you pay or cause you to feel shame and regret in an attempt to restore their honor in their own eyes and/of others. You don't want to create enemies unnecessarily as those can eventually make it hard for you to fulfill your hopes and dreams. The very same people who could've been assets for your cause can make you feel paranoid and not safe. As such, it is often wiser to do good and to be moral for the intention of being able to live and work in greater, inner peace . Personally, I may disable commenting in some platforms online just so I could con delivering to you the high-quality content I believe you deserve. After all I have no use for petty disputes by those who are easily tempted by hatred. 7. Some things are indeed unfixable, and therefore out of one’s control. Attempts to change the unchangeable may result in useless misery, resentment, and suffering. We need to have the Beneficial Words of Wisdom to accept what we cannot change, recognize what we can change, and work towards the life we want, by working on the latter, instead of being miserable, by the former. That's only possible by achieving the required power for the individual matter-at-hands. And in a way, power is everything . 8. Let go of shame and guilt when the deeds you have done do not deserve atonement. Tiny mishaps, for example, are not necessarily as severe as you might think. While it is wrong to murder someone , it is not shameful to be fat, short, ugly, or unattractive. The ideals of normative perspectives should be challenged in order to develop beyond the limits they impose on you. While they may be normative, they are not necessarily logical nor moral. Whether if they are or aren't depend on each individual case. 9. There is no shame in loving someone else who does not love you in return. Your emotions always belong to you and to you only. You decide what to do with them, if at all. A society that condemns emotions as either right or wrong is one of weaklings. It is one that condemns emotions which makes it too uncomfortable, and praises emotions it finds comfortable and/or enjoys from. But to be there for others in their dark hours, we must be strong ourselves. The weak can't help the other much for it lacks the strength to do so. As such we shouldn't enable weakness, but work towards the cultivation of inner strength so others would suffer less unnecessarily. People need not to be condemned for having emotion, if we want to live in a more altruistic, compassionate society. But until then, if it will ever happen, we need to be ruthless towards ourselves merely to survive in the absence of such strong people. Ruthless, to become stronger with or without them. 10. The desire to “be like everybody” is a sin against one’s individuality and unique characteristics and set of merits each one of us has to a certain degree. Similarity leads to mediocrity because diversity of skills is what makes a successful society/organization. In fact, some CEOs would tell you that diversity is imperative for a company's success. 11. Passion, in theory, stems from the desire to escape from one’s lack of satisfaction with oneself or with a situation. Self acceptance and acceptance in general could help you be more productive. That's because it allows you to desire to escape less , and try to make the best use out of what you already have, and of who you are. Who knows, maybe other people can benefit from your uniqueness, and not only yourself. Align your passions with reality, AKA with what you are really capable of doing, and you might be even more useful than before to others and to yourself. Reality deserves to be fixed, to undergo a "tikkun" , in the name of improving our and others' lives. As such, a passion is most useful when something can come out of it. Not when it is merely used for daydreaming. 12. Don’t put your full trust in anyone you meet. Regardless of whether they hide something from you or not, you first need to trust yourself that you are strong enough when your expectations do not meet the outcomes of reality. If you lack this self-trust, why make friends with new people if it has the potential to damage you in some way in the future? To endure betrayal , inner strength is a must. And the weak would backstab you more for they lack either the integrity or loyalty to appreciate your own usefulness. They would not pretend that they care about you, and won't deceive you just to use your help. To reduce your grief, you must learn to see beyond their false presentation. 13. Use the insights and words of wisdom you have gathered throughout your life like a warrior in a battlefield who uses the equipment and armor which are scattered around. Do not let them go to waste when they could serve you upon closer inspection. Not only can anything symbolize something bigger and even philosophical, but every little piece of information can be used in the name of benefit, development, and, at times, even survival and protection. Since power is everything, the production of insight from these resources can make you a wiser being. And knowledge is power as well. **************** Feel free to share this article so those who are important to you would become wiser as well. Thank you for reading.

Subcategory Directory: (This is the sequel of this article) (The extra addition) The Childish Philosophy of Philosocom Article Empire The Tales of Dusts -- My Challenge... To You! https://www.philosocom.com/post/master-your-mind Article Synopsis by Mr. John Igwe and Co. The article "Becoming A Master" offers a profound exploration of the concept of mastery, emphasizing the importance of persistence and dedication. It also asserts that mastery is accessible to anyone with sufficient persistence and determination, making it relatable and attainable for a broad audience. The article acknowledges societal perceptions of self-proclaimed mastery, highlighting the delicate balance between self-recognition and societal norms. Real-life examples like Mozart, Beethoven, Newton, and Tesla enrich the article by illustrating that mastery in one area does not imply overall superiority. Personal reflection adds authenticity to the narrative, making the article more engaging and relatable. In conclusion, the article effectively challenges conventional notions of mastery and encourages readers to pursue their passions with dedication. (Background music) *********** Part I: A Wide Access, Domain Specific The paths to mastery may vary from one to another, even if the practiced art or field at hand is the same. However, one common aspect in these paths is the same, in most if not all of them, and that is the practitioner has to be persistent in their training even after optimal mastery has been acquired. Mastery is no longer the sole property of the elderly and the highly-educated, nor to those who have an immense amount of followers. In this world where much knowledge and wisdom are available to be attained, even often without the need to exit our houses. Everyone with enough persistence and determination can become a master of literally anything that can be studied and practiced, regardless of the way it is done. Whether it requires certification in order for one to be deemed worthy to practice it, is something else. This includes being an expert in certain video games, to the point of being able to finish it faster than most of those who play it , to writers like me who have, truth be told, the ability to write long and concise articles in less than an hour or even half an hour. When Expression of Mastery is Stupid The problem with admitting one is a master, however, comes from societal reception. People largely prefer others to compliment them , than hearing others compliment themselves (or, you know, admit their own virtues). That's especially true when the people in question have yet to either witness or fully realize the merit of the other. In that case, anyone who calls themselves a master in a genuine tone can either be seen as condescending, delusional, narcissistic , or egoistic, even if in reality they are not... Even saying that you are very smart can be considered arrogant, even if you indeed told the truth. Hence why the authority of norms expects you to be humble about yourself and praising anyone who isn't you, even if it will entail keeping what you are convinced is the truth — to yourself. Part II: The Perceived Stigmas "In both directions, our mutual realization highlighted a line of thought embedded in society: the best parts of our lives, selves, bodies, careers, and identities should be squished into a single decade, the narrow window between age 20 and 30 when we’re neither “too young” to understand or “too old” to be relevant ." -- Rainesford Stauffer Honesty is more preferred when admitting your faults than when praising your merit, most especially when you are considered too young, as the younger you are, the more of a beginner you will likely be seen, even if you are not. All because of the stereotypes associated with those who think good of themselves "too much" for their own good. The young are regardless considered novices because of ageism . The "He Knows What He's Doing Because He's a Genius" Stereotype It's hard to say whether his quirks are mere eccentricities or true indications of madness -- Eggman enjoys playing around with his opponents..... In some ways, it seems as though Eggman is trapped in the mind of a child, and that he views life like a game . -- "Dr. Mechano" One of these stereotypes is a common misconception, that those who believe to be of great merit, believe they are greater than others in general. History has produced many masters of their craft who were, practically, inferior than the "common" men and women of their time, in many common fields. From Mozart and Beethoven to Newton and Tesla, many great masters had extremely poor social intelligence, and had great trouble socializing with others, making friends , and even engaging in romance and sex. Activities that arguably were done skilfully by the large majority of humankind. (This source may suggest why) We can also learn from this the following, that even masters can be terrible in some practices, and thus are obviously far from perfect, if there ever was a perfect human being. Part III: The Self Beyond Society "But no matter how harsh the journey, you must realize that there are no trials that you cannot overcome. Friends will help you along the way . Surround yourself with strength, the strength of many..." -- Leknaat The recognition of one's merit is often imperative to discovering who they really are beyond the glasses of society, to their self-confidence, and to the foundation and preservation of their legacy. In this day and age, we have already decided that some forms of positive self-recognition are acceptable without descending to the association of negative traits, notably on the orthodox social platforms such as Facebook and Instagram. People showing their beauty, their financial prosperity, their romantic partners, and their massive amount of followers; such self-promotion is most often common amongst younger audiences, but could be an indication that in the future, such praise would be desired and appreciated in the next generations of humankind. Because no matter how good we are at what we're doing, the strength of others is always even more useful when done right. Thus, for you to recognize them, they must recognize you first, often. Hence why displays of mastery at a certain field/s fulfil a very important social, if not political, role. The Dynamicity of One's Own Mastery None can destroy iron but its own rust -- Ratan Tata And still, the public recognition of self-expressed mastery, especially in more esoteric fields, are either viewed with suspicion or with condemnation. This also reveals that mastery can be compared to a muscle. Despite your endeavors, if you will not practice in your craft enough, your skill can be decreased as if you have done nothing to increase it, both practically and in the eyes of others. You can even forget skills. This is also one of the reasons why I've been spending years writing books and articles in 2 languages. That's even though, technically, most of my life is before me, rather than after. I've missed quite a lot... of regular life, philosophizing in solitude. Personal Reflections "One creature's immaturity is another's absolute revelry!" -- Mr. John Duran Having dedicated much of my short lifespan in my attempt to perfect the art of written philosophy, I believe I have reached a point of being a master in said art, to the point of a specific follower (whose privacy is kept) calling me a master from time to time. Nonetheless, I think of myself as inferior to most people rather than its expected opposite. I will probably never experience other people experience so easily... I am not a social being , and the shallowness of this world brings me sadness. To many people, my lifestyle would make them feel imprisoned, frustrated, and lonely, as if they are actually prisoners, and would attempt to restore their original lifestyle. Knowing the life-limiting power of my disabilities , I have turned to writing philosophical content and providing it to the world, simply because I wish to be satisfied, productive, and contribute to the world in my own way. Now you tell me if I am condescending , when I am to admit the truth: That I've been practicing philosophy since 2013. People are free to delude themselves that I've been doing my first steps in philosophy in the 2020's.. No. It's just that I did much of it in isolation, without teachers, guides, advisors or even much reviewers. I've built my skill up by myself . Rejected, and alone. Even without my personal example, the point is clear: with enough dedication, practice, and at times, sacrifice, anything can be mastered, and anyone who has truly mastered something, should be worthy of the title "Master."

( Disclaimer: These are merely my thoughts. To philosophize is, after all, my job. As you can see, I am against peer pressure, as it can lead to dangerous consequences, from violent TikTok trends to electing and supporting a dictator. I strongly believe that subjectivity is not above reality, hence why I justify it when philosophizing). Article Synopsis by Mr. C. Kingsley and Co. "Peer Pressure, Evolution and the Future" is an insightful article that explores the concept of peer pressure through a philosophical and evolutionary lens. It discusses the evolutionary roots of conformity , the potential for technological advancements to reduce our dependence on social interaction, and the possibility of shaping future generations to become more autonomous and less susceptible to peer pressure. The article begins with a personal disclaimer, setting the stage for an honest and reflective discussion. The article connects the concept of peer pressure to human evolution, emphasizing how social conformity was a survival mechanism for our ancestors. This perspective is both insightful and accessible, providing a solid foundation for understanding why resisting peer pressure can be such a deep-rooted challenge for humans today. Mr. Tomasio envisions a future where technological advancements could potentially lessen our need for social conformity and increase individual autonomy. This forward-thinking analysis encourages readers to think critically about how modern technologies might shape human behavior and societal norms in the future. The article conveys a sense of empowerment by suggesting that individuals can shape their own evolution through conscious choices and actions. By proposing that we can train ourselves to resist peer pressure and forge our own paths , the author offers a hopeful perspective on human agency in a rapidly changing world. The article also explores loneliness and social isolation , acknowledging the psychological consequences of social isolation and the paradoxical nature of modern society . This theme is relevant and resonates with contemporary discussions around mental health, social media , and technological impact on human relationships. In conclusion, "Peer Pressure, Evolution and the Future" offers a refreshing and stimulating perspective on a topic that affects us all. It successfully combines evolutionary theory with contemporary philosophical reflection, while also engaging with current technological trends. (Philosocom's Philosophy of Environment Directory) (Background music) ****************** Why We Struggle with Peer Pressure: A Philosophical View As the writer writes and the farmer farms, the philosopher contemplates the fundamental aspects of human existence. True philosophical work delves into deep thought concerning existential topics. But what if facing conformity is an inherent human challenge, related to our genes? Peer pressure is a powerful force precisely because it exploits an evolutionary legacy. Our genes hold the experiences of our ancestors , those who survived by fitting in with the tribes, nations and other collectives. For them, defying the group could have meant ostracization, even death . This primal fear of being cast out lingers within many of us , making it difficult to resist the pressure to conform, even when on a conscious level we know it's wrong. This connection between our genes and our social behavior offers a fascinating philosophical perspective on peer pressure. As such, resisting conformity is deeply rooted challenge with connection to our evolutionary past. Understanding this connection can empower us to overcome it. The Lingering Fear of Ostracism While the consequences of non-conformity have drastically lessened in today's world, we still grapple with a primal fear of being ostracized. This fear, a legacy from our ancestors, doesn't align with the relative safety of modern society. Evolution is often a slow and reactive process. It learns through past and present experiences, shaping our DNA to reflect those lessons. As such, remote or isolated places, such as the Galapagos islands or even the London Underground subway, allow unique growth of genetic material, based on said environments , whose environment is more unique, and thus lead to different conditioning. This information gets passed on, but evolution can't predict the future. So, while the dangers of ostracism were very real for our ancestors, our bodies still carry that fear, even when it's not entirely relevant. We may fear defying peer pressure as if it meant complete exclusion, even though the worst-case scenario today is far less severe. The rapid evolution of our world, through technology of our own making, may often require us to adapt in accordance. Traditional communities may have a bigger struggle , compared to tech-savvy enthusiasts. We can still be afraid of isolation and abandonment, even though the penalties are much milder than in the past. That is despite the impact of social isolation and rejection on our mental health . However, as our DNA gradually adapts to the current environment, the fear of defying peer pressure could, in theory, lessen in future generations. The Dawning Age of Autonomy The rise of technology and AI may further weaken the dominance of these primitive instincts. Should we, for example, replace our friends and lovers with AI lovers , some of us may be completely okay with it. Should we research more through search engines , we could be fine being alone even further. Finally, with the rise of VR technology , some of us may even desire to live more virtually than physically, traversing virtual worlds like literal digital nomads. Now, given that our experiences go to the next generations through our DNA, we can technically shape our own DNA by living life in accordance to the environment and to our ambitions. With the success of our ambitions, we can either alter or preserve our current external conditions. As such, through their success, we might be more powerful than we might think, capable, through hard work and dedication, to shape the life we want. Not only for ourselves, but also for our future generations! Imagine genes promoting individualism and independence taking hold. Future generations might be naturally less susceptible to peer pressure and, and thus, will be able to become more-independent thinkers. Thinking independently is a quality potentially crucial for survival in a changing world. Be prone to peer pressure, and you might do things that are not necessarily good for you, nor for the environment around you. Alcohol misuse, for example, can harm not only you but people who have yet to be born (children). As developing this habit now, can make them develop that habit too, later in their lives. Embracing Solitude to Forge a New Humanity Can we really expect other people to tell us what's good for us when society at large doesn't really care, let's appreciate us, as individuals? You see, society at large isn't exactly a pure meritocracy , and for good reason. To keep itself afloat, it requires many people to be average and to work in boring jobs they don't like. Uniqueness can therefore be pretty dangerous to social stability. As a result, many people, especially intellects, may feel alienated from society. That is known as intellectual loneliness for that matter. Society does not expect you to say you're an intellectual. That would deem it not modest even if it's true. In a way, society creates its own separatist sentiments in its members towards itself , and the intellectual case is merely one example. This is contradictory to its educational attempts to do the exact opposite. This challenges the idea that humans are inherently social creatures, as the need for social interaction is gradually reduced by technology and the substitutes it presents to us. Those who may struggle with loneliness, may struggle with an emerging "Age of Alienation" – a future dominated by technology, entertainment, and marked by urban living, industrialization, and a sense of greater isolation. In this age, social conformity and interaction might become less necessary, even a fading desire. As we head towards this future, we become the seeds of a potentially solitary generation, where the tasks and entertainment currently fulfilled by social interaction might be usurped by advanced technology. AI apps, VR and the like are examples for that. The thing about these substitutes is that they can eliminate much of the pain and suffering included in meaningful human relationships ( AKA social pain ), thus giving them an advantage over them. Summary: From Social Creatures to Architects of Our Own Evolution The lingering fear of ostracism exposes a dissonance between our evolved instincts and the realities of the modern world. We could utilize this understanding to break free from the shackles of peer pressure, and forge our own fate, and not only for ourselves. Our solution lies in consciously defying these outdated social urges through the practice of enduring solitude, or the art of being alone. As technology advances, isolation may become a defining feature of our future. By embracing solitary endurance ( and perhaps even asceticism for the strong-willed ), we can actively shape our own evolution. That could be done by the success of our ambitions, capable of either changing or preserving our environments, thus influencing our DNA independently of societal pressure. Of course, we'll have to make a habit of denying that pressure, first. Imagine influencing our very DNA by demonstrating that social conformity is no longer paramount for survival. This shift will propel humanity towards a new nature – one where solitude is not a burden, but a natural way of life. Social desires and the urge to succumb to peer pressure will diminish, replaced by a powerful sense of solitary individuality. By being the change we want to see in the world, and make others follow our example. By consciously choosing solitude, we can become the architects of our own evolution, forging a future where humanity thrives not through conformity, but through the strength of the independent thinker. Human beings are not entirely passive instruments to be pressured by the external world and be moulded in accordance. Many of us simply choose to be. To quote Mr. John Duran : The human species is of magnificent design! We are memorable not because of the great deeds we do, but the exquisitely infinite ways we can express ourselves. For mankind, evolving becomes an art.

(Philosocom's Directory on Sacrifice) Alex Mos's Synopsis Offerings to the gods reflect the human desire to influence forces beyond our direct control. In addition to pleasing supernatural deities, we try to satisfy people in power, friends, and romantic partners to gain their favor. The sacrifice rituals give us hope to alter our uncertain existence; instead, we should become mentally stronger. Sacrifice as an accepted cultural ritual increases our self-confidence in the effectiveness of such practice and becomes a fallacious delusion of certainty. Bribes in politics and business are examples of normalized modern-day sacrifices, creating corruption . None of the favor-tipping rituals can influence the future's outcomes. The Sacrifice Assumption offers comfort but is ultimately a delusion. The author became himself to stay calm, focused on building a philosophical blog, and chose to help others in psychological distress. We grow stronger when we conquer our insecurities, persevere through hardship, and prioritize altruism. Then, the followers will follow, and the strong leader will lead out of care for people, not ego. Live and die by the power within you. (Background music) How and Why We Seek Favor Before there was prayer that did not burn anything dead or alive, there was the sacrifice of countless animals to both pagan gods and the Abrahamic god which most of the world's population worships today. Where the slaughter of animals was justified from a religious standpoint, our ancestors believed that by doing so we had the power to tip the odds in their favor by offering the gods what they were allegedly pleased to have. This practice reflects a deep-seated human desire to influence the uncontrollable, by pleasing forces whom we have no direct control on. And I am not only speaking of cosmic entities. I am also referring to organizations stronger than us, like the state , our friends , our bosses and our romantic partners. You know you matter as a person when people strive to please you. Their attempts at pleasing you derive from the same reasoning people throughout history used animal sacrifice: To keep you at their side, thus preventing you from turning on them, or forsaking them. It is no wonder then, that many narcissists are at positions of leadership. Their motivation to be highly engaged in organizational politics is the need to gain "fuel" from their followers. The sacrifice done in their name, can be regarded as narcissistic fuel. Hence the psychological need of some people to be in positions of leadership -- so people would sacrifice for them. To quote Mr. John Duran: The wisest beings would never rule of their own volition or from their personal ambition. Hence the reason they are considered wise in the first place. Leadership is for the greedy and power mad, not the enlightened. Whether it be wars, holidays, weddings, or other events, it is believed to this day that certain actions, especially those connected to religion , superstition, or plain luck , can alter otherwise- inevitable possibilities. These rituals offer confidence, or at least hope, that the extent of our power in this uncertain existence does have some agency over the unknown, even if it's indirect. Should we give up on being weak, and start working towards greater strength, we wouldn't feel so compelled to please other beings, nor seek others to please us and put us on a pedestal. The path of the philosopher is advanced when he or she uses logic to convince others to cooperate. They will not seek as much to please others , nor use mafioso manipulation tactics such as extortion and coercion. No. They will convince through reason and morality. Should they lead, they will convince their followers in the same manner, while overcoming the temptation of depraved, power-hungry methods. The Delusion of Certainty The habit of increasing self-confidence through such appeal to emotion, which is a fallacy , can become a delusion of certainty. That occurs when the "sacrifices" we make to whatever we believe in (Gods, a sentient universe , luck, etc.) will necessarily result in our favor. Once the feeling of certainty sets in, sacrifice can become a normalized ritual, embedded in a society's culture and tradition. It is no wonder, then, that bribes became commonplace in politics as well in business environments. They can be seen as the financial counterpart to the historic animal sacrifice religious settings, continuing to this day . They're capable of creating new norms, despite the corruption that is being increased as a result. To quote Northeastern University, exemplifying former soviet republics: The burden of corruption weighs most heavily on entrepreneurs, who are the engine of growth and employment in most transition economies. A central assumption is that the only corruption and coercion associated with bribery are on the part of the public officials demanding bribes and bribe paying is portrayed as necessary for survival. However, entrepreneurs can also choose to bribe public officials in order to gain preferential treatment for their businesses. Such entrepreneurs are not only influenced by corruption, but also shaping it. . You might legitimately ask why this is a delusion. As that university's quote suggests, sacrifice, whether stems from immorality or genuine dedication to a cause or to someone, does not have to be a necessary feature in life and in organizations. It is only "necessary" because we enable such a culture, and enable those who thirst for it with their greed. Imagine a time machine. Let's say that, after you had made your "sacrifices" and gotten the outcome you wanted, you returned to the past, before your favor-tipping rituals. What if I told you that the outcome you had could be the same nonetheless? What if your favorite football team will win regardless of your hope, that the surgery will succeed, that your crush will hit on you regardless of your wishes? What if much of the sacrifices you make are there simply to reduce your own insecurity towards the future? If this theory makes sense, then it could be that favor-tipping actions have indeed no agency over the world beyond your reach. They might provide comfort, a sense of control, or even a focus for hope, but the outcomes themselves exist regardless of your own significance. The Sacrifice Assumption, though offering comfort, can ultimately be a delusion. Inner Strength as the Morally-Better Means I know that no prayer, and of course no animal sacrifice, will necessarily aid me in living in a more stable future. Instead, I choose practical methods that save me money and keep me away from superstition: I mentally trained myself to remain calm during stressful times (like war). I focus on building the philosophy blog I want to see in the world. I chose to help others during their own distressful times (like during suffering periods) using philosophy. In dark times like these, instead of reducing our insecurities using rituals and other forms of self-affirmation , we can regard insecurity as a force to be reckoned with and to be overcome. By emerging victorious, we can become stronger, instead, thus allowing us to focus less on our own disadvantages, and more on helping others, which is the highest form of morality -- altruism . Then, the follower will follow by the love of being alive, and the leader will lead out of genuine care for whom he or she serves! Psychological safety isn't to be normalized when it is low! It is to be improved on, so it will stay strong regardless of the adversity we are confronted with! Much suffering can be reduced not if we escape from our sources of concern, but if we decide to endure them head-on, with no mercy! Then, by choosing strength, we can demonstrate our worth through action and logic, not through boot-licking! Then, we can lead by vision, not by the need to have our egos pat by our supporters! One can be fuller inside, through moral means, through self work. Live and die by power, and you'll be able to live despite the struggle , by your own power. The one within you! Alex Mos's Feedback No scientific evidence shows that sacrifice to God results in the expected outcome or that the omnipotent God cares about humans, their misfortunes, and offerings. Otherwise, God would care for the well-being of people born in places prone to natural disasters, born into pain , and with genetically less favorable predispositions. Sacrificing and praying to their deities or not, people suffer unnecessarily throughout their existence. Believing in supernatural power can't change the statistical randomness of specific outcomes due to the physical laws of nature and human actions. Instead of waiting for help from the heavens, we should take responsibility for ourselves and the world. A wise saying goes, " God helps those who help themselves ." We can live better lives and improve the world by self-improvement, learning, making smarter choices , altruism, and protecting ourselves and others from preventable harm. Instead of just praying for a better world, let's take action in our human hands and help those in need. Let's share a meal with a hungry person rather than offering it on a sacrificial altar.

(The Directory: The Philosophy of Facial Surgery -- The Two Sides of Beauty The Case Against Pure Beauty -- Why Beauty Isn't Enough Nonsense and Uselessness In Art Painting a Hologram -- Article By Igal Shenderey (Philosophy of Art, Metaphysics) Recognizing A.I.'s Revolutionary Legitimacy -- Guest Post by Ori Sindel Health, Body and Delusion -- How Your Body Image Depends On You On Physical Cover-ups -- Exploring The Functionality of Aesthetics https://www.philosocom.com/post/memento-mori https://www.philosocom.com/post/power-of-love https://www.philosocom.com/post/the-last-craftsman ) Beauty is a result of having a specific feeling that's known as awe. Awe is " A feeling of great respect sometimes mixed with fear or surprise " . Witnessing something like the Niagara Falls can make you feel awe due to its immense beauty, for example. This action, of being "beautified" by something, as a noun, is also an emotion. The Hebrew connection between awe-ness and beauty indicates how beauty is related to ideas we won't necessarily be aware of completely, such as respect. Even being called pretty or beautiful is considered a mark of respect and a compliment, while being hideous and being called out for it, is considered disrespectful. As such, beauty has to do with virtue ethics , for it is a virtue itself. So, everything that is beautiful must make you feel "beautified" or awed. There isn't something that is beautiful that cannot make you feel awed or anyone else. If it fails to make anyone awed, it cannot be beautiful. We can compare this to the word "disgusting." Disgusting simply means something or someone that makes someone else, or even themselves, disgusted, or repulsed. That as well has to do with ethics, because a morally depraved person can repulse like a significantly disgusting one. And while beauty attracts, disgusts repulses. Attractive people as such may receive more interest from the world, while the hideous will face rejection far more for their verdict of being . That is true not only visually but in their behavior as well. Normality is "beautiful" because normal behavior is viewed as desired, while eccentricity makes others keep their distance. The same normality applies literally in the form of looks. Beauty can be also associated with familiarity and common affiliation , while the "overly" unique might not make us feel psychologically safe ( think of monsters as example, who are usually ugly ). Therefore, technically, beauty is an action, or more specifically, a reaction. It is a trait that leads someone to a specific reaction, either in their behavior, feelings, or thoughts. And that reaction has to do not only with our specific taste, but also our own ethics and biases , conscious or not. Because different things and beings make different people react differently, beauty is indeed subjective. However, there are also things that we can agree on a collective level that are indeed beautiful, just as there are things that many of us find disgusting. I disagree with the association of objectivity with collective agreement. Just because a group of people agree on something does not make it true or false. This is how democracy works -- through intersubjectivity , but not how logic works, through objectivity. If we all agree that there is a tomato behind a locked door, but there is not, will a tomato suddenly appear in the room just because we are all convinced that it is there? Collective agreement cannot cancel the fact that some would find the odd, and even the ugly, as having beauty of their own. And thus, even the unattractive can attract. Mr. Nathan Lasher's Feedback Take the example of a security guard at the Empire State Building. That building might have been beautiful when they first started but as time passes it loses some of its awe. So, the guard might not see it as quite so beautiful anymore yet a tourist might be amazed the first time they see it. This is also proof that all actual reality only interacts subjectively with each other. Take a plant growing under a tree. Perhaps when the tree is younger the plant doesn’t notice it at all. Wait till the tree grows up and blocks all the sunlight from the plant. What happens to that plant? Is the tree not subjectively interacting with it? That is the thing about being beautiful or handsome, it really doesn’t matter if you are or aren’t on a superficial external level . That isn’t going to be what people remember for very long. They will remember the beauty of who you are as a person on the inside. People will be more attracted to who you are rather than what you look like. Always seek to be greater than the stereotypes which accompany you . Prove people that they are not true of every kind of person. You know, internal beauty.

Screenshot Credit: Dr. S. K. Pachauri (Subcategory On Memory, Nostalgia and the Unconscious) Unconscious denial is a defense mechanism that some of us use to resist reality. Our unconscious mind keeps us from being aware of our thoughts and experiences, so we may unconsciously deny the facts, supporting evidence, and even the truth itself in order to protect ourselves from mental harm and discomfort. Philosophy is about unlocking the truth, and as long as we deny the truth, we will never be able to understand it as well as philosophers. This is because philosophers are trained to be honest about the truth, even when it is uncomfortable. The truth can be painful, so it is understandable why we might try to deny it. However, it is important to remember that denying the truth will not make it go away. In fact, it will only make things worse in the long run. It is a way to avoid what Czech writer Milan Kundera described as " Litost ". And I quote: "Litost is a state of torment, created by the sudden sight of one's own misery". We might not always understand the consequences of repressing the truth. On our lives, on others, and on ourselves. And yet, the wounds this truth creates might govern us for the rest of our existence, until we confront it and stare deeply into its abyss. Into the abyss where our true beings are buried in. Beings oppressed by denial, by normalcy and by pathetic distractions, as we pretend to be fine and well. As we pretend that we do not need therapy, despite our trauma. As we pretend that we are good people, even if we abused others physically. As we pretend that we did nothing wrong because of normalcy and other, easily disputable logical fallacies. Fallacies that decrease the clarity of reality's understanding. After all, cognitive dissonance is uncomfortable, and we may unconsciously wish to not feel uncomfortable. We need to question everything if we want to find the truth. Because even if the truth is right in front of our eyes, we might not understand it properly due to the blinders of our denial. People who refuse to challenge the tyranny of their own denial are not worthy to wear the mantle of philosophy. They are too unworthy to have mentees or apprentices, as their ability to teach is compromised by something that can be handled with self-awareness and open-mindedness. That includes our very own identities. If we think we are good people, we should question our own morality. If we think we're smart, we need to question our intelligence and thus work to overcome a possible example of the Dunning-Kruger Effect. For denial only breeds biases. And the more biased we are, the more blind we are to reality. We need to embrace discomfort as a feature of life. We must not be so quick to escape it. If we escape it regularly, we will only let the fear of it control our lives. Like a puppeteer in a backroom, our fear of discomfort can be responsible for our own actions, without us even knowing it. We can earn our mental freedom by confronting our shadows, our darker sides, which reside within us. By meditating, we can convert content from the unconscious realm to the conscious. Meditation can be regarded as a mission where we delve into the darkness of ourselves in order to gather intelligence. The more we sink further and further, the more we might begin to feel less physical pain. We might feel freer, even at the cost of our own serenity. Because reality is not always what it seems to the biased eye. Confirmation bias is a very powerful force when it comes to our understanding of things. If we strive to always confirm our assumptions, we will blind ourselves and others from a possible truth, a truth that says otherwise. Here is an external source on this very subject. Personally, I have no desire to live in denial, even if that denial has the beneficial functionality of helping me live a comfortable life. Why? Because it is comfort that stands in my way towards seeking the truth. Philosophy is not the purpose. It is but a means to an end, a tool, a research method . And I'm using it for the betterment of humanity and of myself. I am a disillusioned man who is not afraid of the dark anymore, where one unlocks reality. The dark that lies within and outside of me. Because I am not afraid of what is known as litost. Tormented or not, what matters to me is understanding reality. And I will pay the necessary price on my mentality for that endeavor. Source: https://www.wordsense.eu/l%C3%ADtost/ Because unlike cowards whose cowardice is reinforced by normalcy, I am capable and willing to admit reality. And that includes my own faults and misdeeds. A quick search. I will fight against normalcy through my work; normalcy that justifies disgraceful acts by reinforcing them with conformity. For it is the norms that can turn people into sociopaths. And not the other way around, necessarily. For they are uncaring, and they are a barrier, used for denial. Tear down your innocence. It's in your way. It blinds you. Reality is worse than you might think... You, might be worse than you think. Your innocent self might as well be an unconscious facade, used to hide yourself from you. Hail Philosocom

(Background music) (Philosocom's Directory On Emotions) (Philosocom's Directory on Heart) Article Overview by Mr. C. Kingsley and Co. The article "The Philosophy of Emotional Epistemology: Should We Always Listen to Our Heart?" explores the tension between emotions and logic in understanding reality. It challenges readers to think critically about their own emotional responses, emphasizing how emotions can distort our perceptions of reality. The article's central question is compelling and framed well to draw readers into a deep reflection. One of the article's strengths is its clarity on objectivity vs. subjectivity, which highlights how emotions shape and filter our perceptions. By contrasting how different individuals might experience the same event differently based on their personal, cultural, or ideological backgrounds , it adds depth to the philosophical inquiry and makes the topic accessible for readers without philosophical backgrounds. Mr. Tomasio's examination of emotional bias and how it shapes perception is well articulated, addressing how emotions are intertwined with cognition. By addressing how emotions are intertwined with cognition, this piece helps readers reflect on how their own biases may cloud their judgment of reality. The article's philosophical depth is evident through references to meta-cognition and self-criticism , encouraging self-awareness and rational reflection on emotional experiences. In conclusion, the article offers an insightful exploration of the limits of emotional epistemology, reminding readers that emotions, while deeply ingrained in the human experience, can lead to distortions in our understanding of reality. The Treacherous Lens of Emotion: Why "Feeling Real" Doesn't Guarantee Reality Our emotions are powerful motivators , but when it comes to understanding the world , they can be misleading. We often fall into the trap of assuming that something is "real" simply because it "feels real." However, this is a recipe for error. Our emotions and opinions exist in a separate realm from reality. Reality doesn't care how we feel about it. It's the sum of everything that exists, independent of our interpretations of it . Our interpretations may affect the world, but only by proxy -- through our actions and behaviors. Our actions can be, even, powerful enough to serve as circumstances for others to be confined in. Emotions act as a filter, shaping how we perceive reality, and also what we're doing and not doing in it. That's especially true when we're not logical beings , for logic is also there to govern emotion. But reality itself is unconcerned with this interpretation, as long as we don't act upon it. It has no consciousness and is a product of actions being done. Practically, your emotions do not mean much if you don't use them. They will forever remain in the shadows of those strong enough to dare to express them. Emotions shape both our perception and behavior. But what is worth is a perception that isn't expressed, either by voice or by behavior? There's a fundamental difference between the subjective and the objective. Subjectivity is colored by our individual experiences, while objectivity exists beyond the experiencer, even though the experiencer can influence it using their experience. We can strive to understand this reality, but it's a reality that can only be filtered through our experiences and interpretations. Using meta-cognition and self-criticism, we do however have a rational way to be partially out of our mental cages. These interpretations, however, are inevitably influenced by our emotions, our cultural backgrounds , and our ideologies . They never exist in a vacuum. Researching our local environment could in theory reveal more on how we see the world, and be more able to understand that it's skewed, not objective. That's beside our confirmation bias , possibly telling us otherwise. That bias could also make us undermine our affiliation bias, which also has to do with emotion and with perception. In essence, our attempts to grasp reality are like looking through a lens that's constantly being warped by our feelings and cultural conditioning. Logic, and its improvement, allows us to better examine our currently flawed understanding, and thus improve upon it towards a clearer understanding of the truth. The Moviegoers: The Paradox of Opposing "Realness" Emotionality's distortion of how we process and understand information, becomes evident when we consider how subjective experiences can lead to vastly different interpretations of the same event. An inability to associate interpretation and its subject, as seperate, is how we mislead ourselves and our false confidence of knowledge. Imagine you and a friend are watching a movie. The film contains scenes that might be considered provocative. Your cultural background might make you find humor in these scenes, while your friend interprets them as offensive, perhaps due to their religious upbringing. When the movie ends, you share your thoughts. "I really enjoyed it!" you exclaim. Your friend, however, cancels out your experience, and claims, "That was disgusting!" Here's the key point: both your statements are valid. They stem from your unique experiences and cultural perspectives. There's no objective "good" or "bad" when it comes to this movie because your enjoyment hinges on personal opinion. A "Good movie" is one that yields profit, and that depends on the ability to appeal to as many people as possible. This financial methodology is not about the truth, but about maximising profit. Therefore, a personal liking of a movie is just as correct as a personal distaste. Claiming that popularity is objective, sins in the ad-populum fallacy. This is a prime example of how emotions and personal background influence our perception of reality, whether we actively choose that perception, or fail to distinguish between it and the external world. Recognizing this bias is crucial for making informed decisions, and even grows towards greater inclusivity of perceptions. You might counter-argue, "But wait, how can something be both 'great' and 'disgusting' at the same time?" Logic dictates that A cannot be B if they're entirely different concepts. However, emotions defy logic, in a way that they can deter you from doing the logical next step of a plan . They're shaped by our unique journeys and perspectives, but much of emotion is impression, subjective to associations of biases and fallacies. They're not facts. For a greater understanding of the truth we must not confuse impression with reality. What one person finds repulsive might elicit laughter from another, especially among the truly evil. Similarly, something inspirational for one person could be utterly dull for another. Logic may discard our emotions for a reason, and may even compel you to lose your emotions, as in my case. Seeking Meaning in Shared Experiences While emotions are undeniably subjective, philosophy encourages us to delve deeper. It's not just "feeling real" or "rings true to me" that matters, but the potential for a greater truth and reason hidden within the subjective experiences of others, as the indicators of the external world. As such, reading testimonials , can indeed increase our general understanding of a product or company, unless they are lies covering ulterior motives. To truly learn and grow, we must understand why someone feels the way they do, even if their response stems from a personal lens. This applies not just to supporters, but also to critics and even those who dislike us. Consider the analogy of the color gray. It contains both black and white, yet it's not simply black and white combined. This can be regarded as The Colour Paradox, a term I invented long ago. Similarly, a movie can evoke diverse emotions. It might have comedic aspects alongside serious themes. However, the analogy breaks down when applied to a single scene, such as one containing nudity. That scene can't be inherently "good" or "bad." It may have both positive (artistic) and negative (exploitative) qualities, but it can't be both at the same time. That is unless exploitation is a form of art? This highlights the limitations of judging solely based on emotion. The movie, or the scene in question, existed independently of your or your friend's perception, but without further reasoning to back up one's perception, it doesn't hold much ground beyond its legitimacy to exist. True love, for that matter, proves that all aspects of one's being, including irrational emotion, are legitimate. But true love is irrational for a reason, as rationality is capable of ruining and industrializing the human experience, then let it blossom. The legitimacy of true love is not on the same grounds of epistemological reasoning. From an epistemological lens, emotion is a source of knowledge, with a chance of being unreliable due to emotional bias. If your friend asks why you enjoyed the movie, simply replying "I enjoyed it" lacks depth. Further understanding is not possible without the necessary depth required to explore and examine it further. It doesn't explain what resonated with you. Logical reasoning isn't about emotions themselves, but about the reasons behind them. And if reality is based on the logical chains of events, then your emotions, a product of reality, are of the same methodology. After all, emotions and reality are in a constant interplay of mutual influence. Your enjoyment stems from your personal experience, which is a product of some inherent quality of the movie. The event "joy" cannot occur from the movie if there was no movie being experienced by the mind. The same applies to your friend finding it disgusting. The nudity within the hypothetical scene isn't inherently bad, but one's personal and cultural history have the power to render their emotions as completely different than yours. Embracing Reason in the Pursuit of Greater Clarity of Reality Understanding different societies could also help you understand the biases different people from different societies, could in theory be prone to. However, keeping an open mind, and being prepared to be proven wrong , is how you can avoid concepts such as racism and sexism from clouding your assertions. As such, saying the pornographic material felt "great" simply means it sparked positive emotions in you, not that the material itself possesses some objective greatness. Attributing your internal experience to the object itself, as a necessary part of that object is a logical fallacy of mis-attachment. Distinction between the different actors of reality, your emotions included, can give you the capacity to understand reality better, independently of your emotions. The "inhumane" part of logic occurs when your emotions are compelled to be canceled and rendered irrelevant to the general context, when they are too unreliable to improve the accuracy of objective reception of reality. As such, in Rubinshteinic Content Theory , I've found that our emotions are weak. And all emotions are, by nature, biased, as they are fleeting and prone to constant shifts of change. Even your bodily functions, such as being hungry, can alter how you see reality. Our emotions are powerful motivators, but when it comes to understanding the world, they can be a treacherous guide, deserving of constant doubt. While acknowledging our feelings is important, mistaking them for objective reality hinders our progress for a clearer understanding. This is where philosophy comes in – it encourages us to delve deeper, seeking the reasons behind emotions, both our own and those of others. This relentless examination can help you understand the bigger powers at play in our perception and emotion, like in the proxy wars of the Cold War Era as an allegory. What if your judgement of something, for example, has to do with trauma? What if you feel like you're being attacked, even though you're not, because of your personal history with violence? Does your trauma with violence is a good reason for a non-existing threat in the world, to come out of thin air? Relying solely on emotions to determine reality is ultimately self-deceptive, and a "good" way to shoot yourself in the foot, as you delude yourself from understanding not only reality but also other people, who exist independently of you. This is why an intense feeling can easily lead us down a path of illogical conclusions and disregard for evidence through fallacies such as the Strawman's Fallacy and Whataboutism. Philosophy offers a path forward by overcoming the emotional aspects of the self. It encourages us to move beyond the initial emotional response, explore its roots, and understand that the roots do not have to have that much of a power over us. Why did this movie scene evoke disgust in your friend? What made the humor resonate with you? By understanding these underlying reasons, we can build bridges between subjective experiences and objective reality. This requires a healthy dose of reason, the ability to analyze our emotions and the evidence before us. The Dance Between: Embracing Complexity for Growth The relationship between our emotions and the world is intricate. Emotions aren't useless, especially when they are actually right. They are signals that can guide us. However, relying solely on them as a compass can lead us astray. Philosophy teaches us to better understand the complexity of this dynamic, extensive interplay between reason, emotion, perception and action, in the grand theatre of reality, whose scenes are unfolding every second. Acknowledging the power of emotions while using reason as a guiding light, allows us to embrace both, thus enhancing our learning efficiency and growth. That is while fostering a clearer understanding of the world that exists beyond the confines of our minds. Mr. Nathan Lasher's Feedback Isn’t everything real if given the right context? Are emotions always in the shadows? Mr. Tomasio forgets the fact that the world has a very high EQ by nature. Humans are emotional creatures. I believe emotions are the true culprit to every war we’ve ever had. Look at the American revolutionary war. It was based solely on the emotions Americans had about the British. Isn’t every war the result of someone being upset about something? Human beings have a whole history with experience of emotions. Once we learn how to feel a way about something it is almost engraved in us to feel that same way about all related things. "Due to the brain’s proclivity to form habits, repeated focus eventually yields rigid sequences of conditioned responses, which we experience as habits. These shape the day-to-day experience that forms the fabric of our lives by default." (Psychology today) . We miss out on so much as a result of how something else makes us feel. Part of the subjectivity Mr. Tomasio talks about is the fact all humans have different cognitive features and history with emotions. It should also be noted that subjectivity can be a family trait where an entire family can feel a certain way about one particular thing all because that is how your family feels about it. It does raise a question. Is the reason for emotions being so subjective, because of personal preference which you pick up from your family? Like, "I shall feel this way because my parents do" "Just as we like to share opinions with the rest of the herd, we also tend to match our emotions to those expressed by others around us."

(The Undead Metaphor's Directory: https://www.philosocom.com/post/a-new-type-of-undead-and-my-background-story (Philosocom's Directory on Illusions) (Subcategory Directory on Darkness) (Background music) Part I: A Paradox of Hope Life is a complex interplay between the forces of illusion and reality. As such, philosophy, the path of the truth-seeker, often presents a paradoxical challenge: While illusions provide a comforting sense of purpose and meaning, a deeper exploration can lead to a profound disillusionment. Personally, a depression of 16 years have began since the success of my first philosophical experiment. To navigate this potentially counterintuitive path, one must possess a strength capable of enduring the shattering of illusions, and be able to embrace the feelings of the power of the avoid, and reality's true emptiness. The Illusionary Nature of Existence Illusions, the projections of our consciousness, serve as the scaffolding upon which we construct our lives. From ambitions and personalities to plans and social constructs and religions , these illusions shape our perceptions and experiences, regardless of the World Beyond the Mind . While they may offer comfort and direction, they are but a mirage we hold dear in the vast desert of void. Of course, those who seek to shatter these deeply-held illusions, will have to face social risks upon their philosophic enlightenment. Be rejected as madmen, and might even find themselves romantically lonely, like Nietzsche. Part II: The Perils of Philosophical Inquiry A conscious examination of life, which delves into the depths of philosophical inquiry , can be a disturbing experience. As we peel back the layers of illusion, we may confront a more-barren reality. These bleak revelations can lead to a loss of faith in cherished beliefs, a sense of isolation , and a profound existential crisis. A Word of Caution If you are considering philosophical inquiry, be prepared for the possibility of losing faith in cherished beliefs. Be prepared for finding yourself in the dark belly of True Nihilism , which only few are able to fearlessly endure. Be prepared for feelings of isolation and alienation, especially from those who are dear to you , as they might fail understanding the insights you understand. Finally, be prepared for a profound shift in your perspective, which then would compel you to alter the power of choice in your actions. Actions, whose power could affect others as well, for better or for worse. If you are not strong enough to handle the potential consequences, or if you don't mind your own potential impulsivity , then there is no shame in choosing a more comfortable and familiar path. In the hands of the reckless, even philosophical inquiry could bring unnecessary harm to this world, as seen in those who decide to become school shooters , or attempted revolutionaries. The mainstream lifestyle, with its distractions and unexamined beliefs/illusions, can offer a sense of psychological security and purpose for those who are unable to bear the weight of existential truth. Conclusion: The Liberating and Terrifying Potential of Being "Undead" Most of the living are able to relate to one another because they are embedded i n a web of their own matrix . It is with that matrix, they can connect with each other on a deeper level, and enjoy the width and depth of human emotion, together. The philosopher actively lambasts that matrix, as he or she finds themselves outside of it, thus becoming "undead". At their sacrifice for truth, they sacrifice the vividness of human social life, and the benefits that stem from being able to relate to much of humanity. Yet, despite the challenges, philosophical inquiry can also be a liberating experience. It can allow us to see the world with fresh eyes, appreciating the hidden logic systems of life , finding ourselves filled with awe and wonder, all the while. However, it can also be terrifying, forcing us to confront our own mortality and the ultimate futility of our endeavours (the Eternity Fallacy) . Whether or not to embark on this philosophical journey is a deeply personal decision. With philosophy I personally relive my joys with my late grandma, for instance. However, it is still essential to be aware of the potential consequences before venturing into the unknown. While illusions may provide comfort and meaning, a deeper exploration can lead to a profound disillusionment, as the gems we attain, pale in comparison to the void. The strength to navigate this treacherous path is a rare commodity. For the rewards to be immeasurable, one must improve their power within.

(Philosocom's Subcategory Directory On Outer Space) (Background music) "The Universe make ourselves, a link of energy, as an extension of itself into the flesh, but we become an entity of our very own, reluctant to rejoin what we once were, jealous to continue as ourselves" -- Mr. John Duran Introduction According to New Age-style philosophies, the whole universe is, in fact, not just a collection of objects existing around each other, like planets, asteroid belts, and so forth. Rather, there is a one, big, spiritual being that "seems" to care, and even love, each and every one of us. Not only on Earth but everywhere else where there is life. I have stumbled upon this strange quote on my digital desert wanderings.... Where did I find it? I do not know for sure... "Your belief in yourself, makes the whole universe believe in you." There is much optimism in this quote, correct, yet, it raises a lot of unanswered questions about existence. We can rectify this problem by using more than just logic , but also include our intuition. Intuition, is key of the unconscious , to understand the ways of the universe beyond our conscious mind. Therefore, deductive reasoning, as reasoning in general, is amplified by intuition... Part I: The Mutual Fostering of Values and Its Functional Role Reason can be intertwined with intuition. Reason is the conscious way of understanding, and therefore requires a disciplined life to develop and embrace a more critical mind. Intuition is of the unconscious, comes easier to utilize. Intuition amplifies reasoning, and reasoning makes intuition far more accurate. The integration of both allows us to reach accurate conclusions not only faster but also more easily, as we learn to discern between the minor and the imperative , the good and the evil, and all the other dualities of this universe.... A shared goal is better attained when there is harmony, not when there is competition or oppression. Harmony in families, in classrooms, in relationships, in organizations.... and in the mind. Harmonize your mind, and you can amplify the power of your mind like a dictator would harmonize its city state for greater fulfilment of goals. Harmony thus serves a functional role to serve the will of a unified authority rule. In this case, that infrastructure, the mental empire, is your body and mind. The universe, after all, is everything that is. The mind is a tool used for discovery... Not only discovery of the world, but ourselves, as well. The more we hone and refine this tool, the more we discover. Training , not only physical but mental as well , therefore becomes key for greater discovery to what appears to many as mystery. Part II: Understanding Intuition and its Demonstration Intuition is the extension of the universe. Intuition, as an unconscious tool of knowledge, allows us to know beyond the conventional.... the knowledge of the universe itself. How else would intuition draw its knowledge from, if not from the very reality we somehow naturality understand... Reality, AKA the universe? As such, intuition is always about discovering the truth... An ocean of truth. Intuition, furthermore, helps us see people beyond their ulterior motives. Finally, intuition seems to be increased through love, making love an uncanny breeder of emotional epistemology. Therefore, an action that stems from intuition, can be seen as the execution of the universe's will, in theory. I also theorize we all execute the universe's will in our own respective ways. Love is connected to fate and destiny , for example, leading to another theory about children being the product of intuition... of the universe's will. Let's take Afghanistan and its warring situation as an example: if we gather a group of people who are against the Taliban and make them all, as an activity, to believe firmly and with determination, that the Taliban regime will eventually fall -- what role will they and the universe play, should the Taliban actually be overthrown or collapsed eventually? Not much necessarily. As I argued, logic makes the execution of intuitive knowledge more accurate. The greater the accuracy, the greater success we gain through executing our plans... that might be the universe's, by proxy? Part III: The Mysterious Methods of Balance It is important to remember that the universe/"the world" is a vast and mysterious place, and we do not know everything about it.... Our knowledge is not only conscious, but unconscious as well. Not only known by our minds, but repressed by our minds as well. Therefore, not only do we lack the divine trait of omniscience, but we also lack the very same knowledge we already have.... the one that stems from our inner light. The light we repress to survive in a society where acting is normalized... Light. Intuition is a symbolic expression of light. Logic is meaning, or logos. We understand meaning, we enlighten our ignorance. We enlighten our understanding, it becomes clearer to us therefore. The unification and mutual amplification of mind and heart could make it appear to us, more possible that the universe is more than just a collection of objects, and that it does have some kind of consciousness or awareness... Represented by our very own, individual consciousness. However, we cannot say for sure, and it is important to be open-minded and to consider all possibilities. After all, in the Afghan case example, the Taliban's directive is not just to rule the Afghans, but also to extend their influence to their neighboring territories in order to promote and enforce Muslim Sharia Law. If they strongly enough believe in extremist Islamic ideology (which I suppose they do), will the universe support them too? Muslim radicalists, to promote the influence of Sharia Law, apply methods in the name of Jihad. Jihad is defined as "the promotion of what is right and the prevention of what is wrong. Action is how the universe exerts its intuitive will onto its actors, its "biological machinery", us. This is why suffering is an inevitable possibility. We suffer, because we intuitively seek change. War is a struggle for change. Conflicting interests are the reasoning of war. War leads to peace, and peace leads to war. The universe works according to Taoist principles, leading to moral ambiguity and to humans naturally being walking contradictions of complete opposites. Within the human element, I call is the "grey problem". Understanding the grey problem, allows us by proxy to understand the universe itself, as we all originate from the universe. That is the universality of existence at least from a very physical aspect. Does "universal consciousness" favor those who believe in something the most? Is it kind enough to support anyone who believes in any belief? Does it support anything at all? Is it capable of supporting anything like any self-conscious being can? Under Taoist methodology, the universe strives for balance. Balance is the natural order of the seven essences of existence, within its void and its three expressions. Thus, whatever might happen under intuition, is done for the balance of the universe. Perhaps, this is why some of us are naturally good-hearted , and why others are naturally malicious. Conclusions In conclusion, while there is no physical evidence that the universe is a sentient or self-conscious being, it is difficult to actually determine if there is this supposed "brain" somewhere in the unknown universe, which serves as some sort of a psychic "nerve center" of everything that exists and lives. Perhaps.... we are the neuron cells of the universe? In order to keep an open mind, as we still technically do not know everything, the rational answer would be "I don't know". Logical inquisition without sufficient knowledge is insufficient by itself, as logic is not only per capability or the virtue of honesty, but also per our existing knowledge. Knowledge that is finite. Article Review by Alex Mos Intuition is knowing something without conscious reasoning. There is a notable difference between the perspectives of philosophers and psychologists regarding intuition. In philosophy, intuition is considered supreme intelligence, and according to Plato, it requires long intellectual training. It's the ability to acquire pure, unbiased knowledge that can't be obtained by observation, reasoning, or experience. Intuition is often expressed as an epiphany of an idea or concept in philosophy and theoretical science. Psychologists believe intuition results from an unconscious pattern-matching between past experiences stored in long-term memory and similar situations in the present. The information is processed automatically and delivered to the conscious mind with high emotional certainty. Intuition should not be viewed as the opposite of analytic thinking but as complementary in decision-making and problem-solving. Current research suggests that all humans are born with a fundamental capacity for intuitive thinking and that, as we mature, we can enhance our intuition by practicing it. Intuition is a complex and fascinating ability, but our intuitive abilities decline if we fail to listen to and cultivate them.

(Background music) (The Directory: Planet Lok -- An Indication To What I Have Become Escaping Inevitable Doom - The Space Nomad Theory - How To Extend the Human Race Indefinitely Do you have five minutes to talk about UAP? A Guessing Attempt Written by Ori Sindel The Rubinshteinic Frame Condition Theory -- Why Innovation Has a Universal Function Is the Universe a Consciousness? https://www.philosocom.com/post/the-rarity-of-life-among-infinite-stars-a-philosophical-and-scientific-inquiry-by-mr-chris-kingsl A Tale of Golden Fire The Peace of the Warrior (A Sci-Fi Fable) -- How Peacefulness is Stained https://www.philosocom.com/post/alienation-as-natural ) A common question that many people ask themselves at least once in their lives is whether there is any extraterrestrial life beyond planet Earth. And if there is, will they ever be able to develop sentience like us humans, to the point where we will be able to communicate with them like we do with ourselves? With so many Earth-like planets out there , that is, planets with oceans and other habitable biomes, it is safe to assume that even if there are no sentient species within our technological detection range, there are sure to be some life forms on those planets that we have yet to realize their existence. Theoretically, it is also possible that there are interplanetary or galactic empires , even if they contain only one or two colonies other than their original planets, that both us and they have yet to interact with each other, or with any other sentient species ( Like the Ur-Quan Hierarchy in Star Control ). Our interplanetary loneliness might be a common state of being without us or them knowing it. The existence of Philosophy on Aliens, once proved beyond the realm of theory and speculation, could have a negative influence over our position in the universe as a race. Perhaps we are not as special as we think we are, let alone created in the image of a supreme being. Or superior, compared to animals, who are not. If we find races that are superior to us in any way, then we are also not as talented and sapient as we think we are. Imagine a species where every average being is as intelligent as a human genius ; this is how harsh the discovery of sentient aliens could be. And still, due to the immense size of space, extraterrestrial communication can be very difficult. Perhaps a hidden species has received the messages we sent to space, and has already sent a reply of their own, but it could take a few human generations for that reply to finally be received. This is how problematic communication can be in space, leaving us hanging, perhaps, for centuries, for evidence to be revealed. Another issue on the topic of aliens is about alien invasion. Perhaps there is a grand empire out there, looking to conquer and enslave entire species. However, I think such a scenario is highly unlikely, both because of the size of space and because of our increasing military might. If we were ever united against a common enemy, we might be the most powerful species in this side of the universe, even if we are not yet capable of interstellar travel. Additionally, there is no threat that would stop our militarization aside from ourselves. Taking the resources to invade a distant, heavily fortified, and small planet sounds very impractical and costly, even for a strong alien nation. (Assuming, of course, their technology is less to match ours, upon our collective unification for global defense purposes). Nonetheless, what we can be assured of is that it is reasonable to believe in extraterrestrial existence, even if it is far more primitive than ours. And even if it isn't sentient , necessarily. Let alone, sapient . Because of that, we should consider the possibility that we as a species are not as special, let alone divine, as some of us think we are . There might even be species that look and function similarly to us, aside from a few visual and cultural differences. And at the same time, in the moment you are reading this, an alien might be looking up at the night sky and wondering if they are alone in the universe.... just like we do. Mr. Nathan Lasher's Feedback Not saying [aliens] exist, but why else would we have been given a universe? An area so big someone could spend their lives traveling it and never see everything. If [aliens] do exist that means they are probably just like us. Having no way to travel that far into space and therefore are of no threat to us. If life exists it isn’t within our reach so it’s pointless to contemplate what isn’t possible. Then again, it might take belief in another living thing out there which allows us to think of ways in which to get there.

(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)   Terah Miller's "Power of the Mind" To the human population of the world , the most fascinating thing about human nature is their mind and behavior. How is it that we human beings have the most powerful tool in the whole world, and that’s our mind? Yes, it is capable of creating many things through imagination, yet why do many choose to ignore it? I believe that with the right mindset and that we really see the endless space full of opportunity to create whatever we want ; don't you believe me? Think about back in time when there was no civilization, just sticks and stones. How was it possible that we created everything that we have now that was "impossible" back then? I hope we are on the same page. You and your mind have the power of construction and destruction, it’s all about what power you and your mind want. Mr. Nathan Lasher's Feedback The power of the mind is way greater than most people understand . I will try to put it simply. Your mind, whether conscious or subconscious, controls what you do. You couldn’t do anything without your brain telling you to. A good motto to live by is to take 10-15 minutes each day to learn something new which isn’t related to you. You never know when your mind, through abstract cognition calling on everything you know about something. You never know when it will come in handy, but the mind has the ability to overcome traumatic brain injury through neuroplasticity . My mind is so amazing most of the damage isn’t noticeable anymore, other than an occasional stutter of a word or two. I shouldn’t even be alive so I can live with the few minor inconveniences which took the place of death. It's a fair trade in my opinion.

3 Essential Philosophical Questions to Ask Yourself Specifically, because our time here among the living is by default limited, we should examine our lives every now and then , question our current progress (if we're making any), and see for ourselves through contemplation, whether or not our limited time here is being wasted or is being well invested. In fact, what drove me to become a philosopher was to increase my productivity as a writer, which turned out to be a good decision in retrospect. Anyway, here are the questions. Feel free to memorize them and set aside time once in a while to ask yourselves these questions and check if you're making progress towards whatever one or more ambitions you've vowed to accomplish. 1. Do I really need this/these? · Take away everything you don’t need, and there will be less unnecessary suffocation. · Some of your possessions could be used by people who actually need them but are deprived of them. · Experience is there for knowledge and development. If you know something without experiencing it, and contemplating on it has contributed to your growth as a person , then experiencing it can be discarded. · Wanting something you don’t have can create unnecessary frustration . Even if you may attain it, the frustration can potentially stay and be directed to the next thing you lack. It is a cycle of waste, and waste isn’t needed. · Learn to balance your wants and needs . In that way, the fulfillment of needs can bring much satisfaction and serenity. · If you are to decide to discard one or more objects from your life, make sure to check if their discarding has really made any significant change in your lifestyle, beyond their visual disappearance. 2. Am I currently a productive individual? · To create something is to embody yourself in it. When you produce something of your own, it can "extend" your life after your death. It can stay for centuries and be consumed by others for their own development in the journeys of the living. · All people have talents, and talents are there to be used . When they are not used, they lose some of their potential, like a plant that hasn't been watered for a long time. You don’t have to use all your talents, and using one or two is enough to develop them for your growth. · Being productive can lead to a satisfying and meaningful life . Humans need to be doing things, to keep themselves occupied, and when this need is deprived, harm comes forth, even if it is unseen at first. It grows like a virus. · Your time in your biological existence can be used otherwise than for non-productivity . Be active and actualize for yourself how much you are able to do without feeling exhausted enough to rest. · Even with all the potential and actualized productivity, rest should be embraced, for it can give one’s productivity additional quality. · It can be at your workplace or during your leisure time. You are more than your work, just as you are more than your free time. · Even basic jobs can be of the utmost significance to the functionality of the workplace. This is why even jobs with less luxury are equally, if not more, important than those that guarantee social admiration. 3. Can I stand the possibility of death? · There are points in RPG games where, once you arrive at some area, you cannot return to the previous places in the game. These are points of no return. Sometimes they are predicted, and sometimes they come as a surprise. Make sure you have done everything you felt or thought you needed to be doing, for death can arrive without caution, anywhere, anytime. · Your time is temporary. You cannot live the same days for eternity. One day, your character in the environment where you are on a regular basis, may disappear from view. Make sure you are aware of that, even if you are young, because no one is completely safe from death, not even the young. · This question also applies to the deaths of others. Are you prepared for the death of those who are dear to you, whether they are older or younger? Are you prepared for the possibility that one or more of them has a relative chance to permanently vanish from your life? Do you have a plan as to what to do afterwards, beyond your own rehabilitation? I hope this article has been worthy and/or helpful to you and others. Thanks for reading!

A Philosophy of Aggression Introduction: I have been called aggressive, several times before. In order to advocate my side, and in order to utilize it, by contributing to humankind, I have devised this poem, for these exact purposes. Due to how I experience the world, I can learn quite a lot of it, since I almost always, keep analysing it. These are but few of my findings. Before we'll begin, I guess you should know that this isn't for the faint of heart . Regardless, truths may contain pain within them. It is my duty, as a philosopher, to not disregard their potential existence; To accept the pain involved and live alongside it. I hope that, through this poem, the notion of aggression, will have another awareness. The poem was inspired by this tune . The Poem Itself: Ms. One, yelled at my mind at an intensive rate, And made me move across the state. She made me, question my existence, But her apathy , left me merciless. When people criticize philosophy, They only encourage me to nurture my mastery. Against them, I am pitiless, So I'll reach, the natural death! Mr. Two, revealed true sociopathy; There's evil in the niche of philosophy! He made me, question my existence, But learning from him, I can be fearless! When evil beings try to depress my mind, They only make me determined for the rest of humankind. Against them, I am pitiless, So I'll reach, the natural death! [Pause] Without mercy, To the enemy, Greater certainty, Can guarantee! Where all the roads have ended, My hope, for more does not! Even if my goals aren't destined, My passion, to persevere, is hot! So, as you see, There's little stopping me. As Mother intends: One shouldn't be despaired! To the enemy: I killed my pity, So I'll reach, the natural death!

(Philosocom's Subcategory on Time) The Possible Purpose of Life: Free Time Not everyone may agree with this perspective, but for many, whether they are consciously aware of it or not, the essence of our ambition in life often revolves around attaining more free time. Much of our daily activities—fulfilling basic needs, paying bills, working, and learning—are ultimately aimed at gaining this precious resource: free time. But why is this so? What is the true significance of free time? For some, the search for higher meaning leads to existential questions such as, "Why am I here?" If we dig deep into this question, we might find that our presence is aimed at experiencing more moments of leisure—watching TV, spending time with loved ones, resting, or playing. These activities define what many of us consider as the true essence of "free time." Defining Free Time: The Period of Genuine Choice Free time is the one period in our lives where we hold complete autonomy, unbound by external obligations. It is when we have the rare opportunity to act according to our own genuine desires . While we might work for money or study for grades, free time offers a realm where our decisions are untethered by such external motivations. It’s a time when we are our own masters. Consider this: How many of us can honestly say that we work because we love it, or that we pursue education solely for the joy of learning rather than for the tangible rewards—grades, degrees, or career advancement? Civilization has been built around the pursuit of money, making it almost inevitable that we strive to earn as much as possible. This is not merely for survival but also for comfort, entertainment, and the ability to support our families. Yet, beyond survival, who truly dislikes free time? It's a domain where our authority is absolute. When we have free time, no boss, teacher, or external figure dictates our actions. We become the supreme authority over our schedule. And in those moments, we can engage in anything that fulfills us, moving from one activity to another without the constraints of others' expectations. The Unique Power of Free Time This is precisely why vacations, days off, and private spaces are so cherished. They symbolize autonomy, an escape from societal demands, and a chance to pursue our truest desires without interruption. When we gain the freedom to explore our genuine interests and passions, we reach a state of profound self-awareness and satisfaction. This awareness can guide us to optimize our time on Earth and find deeper fulfillment. However, the struggle for many is understanding what to do with their free time. Boredom often creeps in, suggesting that some have yet to discover what brings them true joy and satisfaction. Imagine having an army at your disposal but no clear command to give—this is similar to having free time but not knowing how to use it. Without purpose, our most valuable resource—time—remains underutilized, much like a powerful but idle force. Free Time: A Rare and Precious Commodity For some, free time is a rarity, a treasure to be guarded. Those who work multiple jobs, face imprisonment, or juggle countless responsibilities often long for the luxury of having time to themselves. In contrast, those who find themselves with abundant free time are in a privileged position. They have the potential to explore, create, and reflect. Wasting this time in boredom or idle activities can be seen as a disservice, not only to oneself but to the countless others who long for such freedom. It’s essential to recognize that our free time isn’t just a break from obligations; it’s an opportunity to shape our lives according to our deepest values and desires. It’s where our truest self emerges, free from societal roles and expectations. The Purpose Behind Obligations: Achieving Free Time Every obligation we fulfill, whether at work or in our studies, is a step toward earning more free time. It’s a cycle: we serve the outside world to eventually gain the freedom to serve ourselves. Weekends, holidays, and even brief moments during the workday are chances for us to find happiness, engage in our interests, and feel liberated from our routine duties. I once had to work to afford a home in my country’s bustling metropolis, a place I’ve lived for much of my life. Living expenses were, and remain, quite high. During that time, even while living with my mother, I had to contribute to rent despite her also being employed. It wasn’t a matter of poverty; it was simply the reality of the environment we lived in. But now, I find myself in a different situation—one where I am no longer part of the "rat race." I don’t need to work to survive. This rare position has allowed me to dedicate my time to a pursuit I cherish: running and developing this site . The insights and reflections I share here are a result of the freedom I have to focus and contemplate, unhindered by unwanted labor. A Reflection on the Human Condition Ultimately, many of us live in anticipation of gaining more free time. For some, it’s the weekend; for others, it’s retirement. For a fortunate few like myself, it’s a daily reality. The possibility of life’s purpose being tied to the quality and quantity of our free time is worth contemplating. When we have the freedom to spend our time as we wish, we unlock a deeper level of living—one filled with choice, autonomy, and, hopefully, fulfillment.

(The Directory: https://www.philosocom.com/post/success-versus-happiness-why-success-can-outweigh-happiness https://www.philosocom.com/post/how-i-became-successful https://www.philosocom.com/post/peak-s-irony-sadness-and-success https://www.philosocom.com/post/why-it-s-lonely-at-the-top https://www.philosocom.com/post/the-rubinshteinic-strategy-to-living Simplicity, Productivity and the 2 Giants (Short Essay) The Two Philosophies of the "Invested Vagabond" https://www.philosocom.com/post/making-something-of-yourself https://www.philosocom.com/post/elementary-to-me-poem https://www.philosocom.com/post/nice-guy https://www.philosocom.com/post/frustration https://www.philosocom.com/post/my-revenge https://www.philosocom.com/post/trying-again https://www.philosocom.com/post/the-neurodivergent-sovereign ) (Background Music) Alex Mos's Synopsis Success is defined by individual satisfaction with one's achievements based on their own unique goals. We can also share our goals with a group and pursue a collective purpose together. People who lack purpose in life miss opportunities for success. Societal norms heavily influence our definition of success. However, success lies in achieving individual dreams regardless of societal expectations. Traditional criteria for success include financial materialism , societal popularity, and sexual relationships. If your goals don't align with societal standards, you will not consider yourself successful in achieving them, as the ultimate aim of success is the satisfaction of your genuine desire and ambition. The author chooses to be unsatisfied, to work relentlessly, and intentionally unwilling to reach a resting state of "post-purpose." Uniquely, he identifies his success with his mental survival rather than pleasure . The path to long-lasting success is to focus on what truly brings you joy and fulfillment rather than societal expectations. Part I: The Defining Factor of Success Success, first and foremost, depends on one's goals. In other words, it's about what someone is trying to achieve, whether or not they achieve it, and if they manage to maintain their grip on it for the long term. Whether someone is considered successful depends entirely on what they set out to accomplish and whether or not these three elements are featured successfully (no pun intended). Without goals or ambitions, success becomes a meaningless concept. It's not about being rich or famous ; it's about the individual's pursuit of their personal aspirations. It's about conquest, but not necessarily in its literal term of occupying land or a populace. Rather, it's about making an accomplishment, yours. Those who lack a sense of purpose and direction in life, such as the "klumnik" archetype , have no goals to strive for, hence no opportunity for success. In essence, success requires a target, a "what" to be achieved; a mission to be fulfilled. Success and Other People Beyond setting goals and actively working towards them, the concept of success becomes subjective or inter-subjective , AKA, at the hands of societal recognition of what "success" is. Societal expectations and norms often influence how we define and measure success, attributing value to specific achievements. However, true personal success lies in the accomplishment of one's own ambitions, regardless of their alignment with societal standards. The same logic applies to syndicates, or a collection of people or groups who unite to attain one or more specific, shared purposes. Their overall competency depends mostly if not entirely on the fulfillment of their shared interest/s. If they attain other things throughout their venture, that matters not to what they set their mind for, can we truly say that they are successful objectively? The pursuit of individual or collective goals and their successful achievement forms the fundamental core success. Anything beyond this becomes a matter of societal perception and may not necessarily reflect the true, intended fulfillment. That's how logic is. It discards everything that is irrelevant to the topic or plan at hand. The "colder" the logic, the more dismissive of irrelevant features it can be. Part II: Defining Your Own Path As you can see, in certain contexts, your own ambition to your success can be seen as a threat on others, making you ask yourself if you might be the villain in your own story.  So, you might want to consider becoming more ruthless in the name of your success, as the ruthless person does not compromise their dreams in order to please other people.   Of course, there exists these so-called "objective" interpretations of "success," creating the delusion that specific paths and achievements are necessary for "success" to occur, regardless of one's plans. Even accomplishments outside this category, like success in video games , are often deemed irrelevant by many, but would be highly regarded by others. This "objective", or simply orthodox success typically includes: Wealth and high income. An active social, romantic, and sexual life. Being trendy. A large following on social media . Luxurious possessions, including multiple cars. Degrees to "back up" your intellect. Essentially, anything associated with financial materialism, societal ideals, and sexual relations. However, your personal or shared goals don't need to align with those of general society unless you'd like them to. Even if you achieve the societal definition of "success," it holds no true value if those goals aren't truly your own. The Value of Your Own Desires Success is to be measured not by wealth, power, or fame, but by the ratio between what a man is and what he might be. -- H. G. Wells How can one be considered successful in achieving a non-existent goal, one that lacks personal desire? How can a very conforming person be considered successful if you're not interested in conforming but in being more of an outsider, for example? Why shouldn't your desires matter in this? As such, your success depends on your ability to make up your mind about what path you wish to take in life. The more you made up your mind about the path ahead, the better your resolve, your determination, will be to endure traversing it. While you may "succeed" in completing such goals, this success doesn't stem from genuine desire but rather external expectations and norms. What success is there in being enslaved to external expectations and the pursuit of external validation? Many of us simply adapt to the flow and adopt the goals imposed upon us, without really understanding ourselves authentically . However, unless we truly desire to achieve a goal, we haven't truly succeeded, even if we achieve it. The ultimate aim of success is the satisfaction of our ambitions. Without that, you're ultimately unsuccessful in your own terms, regardless of outward perceptions. For perception is, ultimately, another's choice, and not necessarily your own. Therefore, true success lies in defining success your own goals and pursuing them, until they are finally attained and maintained. While societal norms may offer a framework, it's your own aspirations and genuine desires that ultimately determine your path to success. Intermission: Success Without Satisfaction? Mr. White... is a meth empire really something to be that proud of? -- Jesse Pinkman How can someone be truly successful if they are not truly satisfied with their own work and achievements? Such success is mere pretense, an attempt to appease others and avoid the discomfort of not conforming to societal expectations. That is, of course, unless you choose to be unsatisfied. Being unsatisfied is when one can be far more productive, rather than when one is satisfied. The sense that lacks satisfaction, can drive us to achieve more. So, should we choose to be unsatisfied, we can yield more fruit, than when resting on a sense of victory and what I call, "post-purpose". Conclusions True success is defined by individual satisfaction with one's achievements, based on their own unique goals. A wealthy businessman or woman who despises their job may be considered "successful" by society, which values wealth accumulation. However, without personal satisfaction, this success remains hollow and meaningless. The other, forced-upon pursuits might as well be distractions from one's realization of their true hopes and dreams. Ultimately, the purpose of success is individual fulfillment. While wealth, academic degrees and other conquests can be satisfying for many, it's not a universal need for contentment. The key lies in aligning your goals and aspirations with your personal definition of success, not the one dictated by others, without you agreeing with the definition. Therefore, focus not on conforming to external expectations but on identifying what truly brings you joy and fulfillment. Or with what resonates with you from inside, the most. This is (largely) the path to genuine, long-lasting success. ( Unless you act independently of your own willpower, which is very much possible, like a machine would. However, very few people are capable of doing so on an extensive basis). Mr. Nathan Lasher's Feedback Success is a relative term. It is only true in one’s own mind as well as it coming from someone else whose own idea of success is what you meet. Don’t get caught up in the superficial opinions of everyone else. Just go out and be you and let people think what they are going to think. As long as you are a success in your own mind then that is all that is important. Self validation is vital . Your thinking something makes you start acting in a certain way which turns into habits which turns into you actually putting the very thing out there which you wanted to in the first place. Success is nothing more than the result of action, without action there can be no success. People think other people are successful based upon their actions. If you haven’t done anything then how can you be successful in your eyes or in the eyes of others? Success is relative to the amount of action you take. Satisfaction is another relative term which has no set way of attaining. So, by reasoning, dissatisfaction goes in the opposite direction. It is a cognitive term which only applies to those who take action to have their desires met.

(2025 Note: Using philosophy and neuroplasticity I have recovered from my own autistic symptoms. It's called autism recovery. My mind is forever hidden from you). The Subcategory Directory https://www.philosocom.com/post/philosophers-and-autists https://www.philosocom.com/post/autism-and-social-incompetence https://www.philosocom.com/post/the-problem-with-birthdays-and-other-events-from-an-autistic-standpoint https://www.philosocom.com/post/the-autistic-rune-of-punishment https://www.philosocom.com/post/how-to-use-logic-to-read-the-room-ratigan-s-song-analysis-the-great-mouse-detective Away From The Hermitic Philosopher -- A Very Mysterious Storytime Through A Former Friend's Perspective Name as Identity - Rebranding Yourself (By Ms. Panama Dusa) The Autistic "Rune of Punishment" -- How To Overcome Punishment Using Redemption https://www.philosocom.com/post/the-neurodivergent-sovereign (Background music) Navigating the Social Landscape with Autism Imagine this: the world unfolds before you like a narrow corridor, with vibrant details rushing past your fixed gaze. This is the reality of many on the autism spectrum, where social cues and interactions, readily apparent to others, fall outside their immediate line of sight. It's not physical blindness, but rather.... a different way of processing and interpreting the vast, rich diversity of social signals. Perhaps my autism/Asperger's would have contributed to my unique points of view towards society? This "one line of sight" can lead to misunderstandings and misinterpretations, often common in both autistic and neurotypical viewpoints towards autistic. What comes naturally to some, from unspoken rules to emotional nuances, can be a tiring puzzle for individuals on the spectrum. This is where the "social blindness" metaphor resonates. It's not a lack of cognitive ability, but a different perspective, a unique lens through which they perceive the world. You may often find autists to be bluntly honest, which can easily disrupt the mood in a social setting that's built on masking and a gentle way of saying things. Such dependence on gentleness and comfort, minor as they are , is what makes many people weaker than they otherwise would have been. Calling them fools or illusive is akin to judging someone for not seeing colours if they are colourblind. Failing to fit in is something some people will be more likely to do than others, simply because of how their minds work and process information. Auditory processing information, for example, is important in spoken communication , but it isn't something all autists are able to do normally. The fact that we interpret sensory data so differently from neurotypicals can be a liability of its own, when it hinders us from navigating the neurotypical landscape, which has no regard for its minorities. The problem arises when this difference remains unacknowledged, and thus overlooked, when the one-way communication creates a chasm of misunderstanding. Autists may often be told that they need to grow up simply because they regard things, commonly viewed as minor, as things of great distress (as with certain sounds, certain pet peeves , and so on). But does general society care? Not necessarily. Most likely, not. With their disregard, many autists begin feeling isolated from the world around them... quite profoundly. This is where honesty and open communication become critical. By clarifying our so-called "limited social vision," individuals on the spectrum can empower others to bridge the gap, to navigate the nuances of their own social landscape. It's not about lowering expectations, but about adjusting perceptions, appreciating the strengths that lie within this alternate view. While the world at large often regards the autist's difficulty in understanding the world, it often disregards the fact that it fails to understand the autist as well.  Depending on the individual at hand, as the autistic spectrum is as wide as the ocean, a certain degree of mediation will be required. The truth is, many on the spectrum possess exceptional talent and intelligence , often obscured by the social challenges they face. I mean, look at how much I wrote thus far and how much insights I've shared with you on my platform. Do not mistake my social awkwardness for stupidity. By shedding light on our unique perspectives , we open doors to collaboration, acceptance, and a richer understanding of human diversity. Remember, judging a book by its cover might make for a quick assessment, but it rarely reveals the depths of the plot within. And how could stereotypes even be a good way to understand people? Why use them in the first place? So, let's move beyond labels and simplistic judgments. Let's embrace the spectrum of human experience, existent outside of the autism spectrum as well, of course. Let us do it, not with mercy, as it is often impractical , or condescension, but with curiosity and a willingness to understand. You know, as expected of philosophy readers, as well. Only then can we truly appreciate the beauty and brilliance that shines from even the narrowest line of sight. Understanding My and Others' Neurodiversity With autism and/or despite it, I engage in the fascinating world of philosophical inquiry, as I penned many meta-philosophical content independently of any research institution. For you see, the mind, once trained enough, can also be a profound tool of research for the philosopher. However, navigating the intricacies of social engagement and understanding can be a unique challenge, many "normal" counterparts would have little-to-no difficulty in doing. Do you see the uncanny reality of being autistic? Of being so competent at a complex field, yet remain fairly incompetent in the common social department? Humor often eludes me, its subtleties lost in a literal landscape. At the same time, my own sense of humor eludes others as well, while it seems very obvious to me  Facial expressions and vocal tones can be enigmatic codes, leaving me prone to misinterpreting situations (speaking loudly can be regarded as yelling by myself). And the world's sensory ocean can be overwhelming, bombarding my senses with intensity, leading to anxiety and social fatigue, rendering me largely asocial. And that small talk! Obviously philosophizing is a far superior and more effective use of my time, that otherwise would have been invested on working on Philosocom. I'm a practical, hard-working man who is intending to prove certain people wrong with my vengeful altruism . This "social blindness" I speak of can thus be regarded as very different and opposing viewpoints to that of society and even of other autists. I live to work. Do some of you find it funny that serving my readership is more important than spending a life of hedonism? Of course it does, for some obscure reason, which easily hinders the output of your own productivity. Anyways, this "blindness" of viewpoints, should demand the need for clear and direct communication with individuals on the spectrum. Not in petty arguments, no, but in discussions, which can yield more productive results . Explaining social cues explicitly, exploring the autists' perspectives, and allowing for sensory breaks, can bridge the gap. Many ways, otherwise unexplored, can cultivate a greater understanding, and increase prevention of misinterpretations. Remember, patience and open-mindedness are invaluable tools in this journey. And what I do as a philosopher myself is to respect that of which I don't understand fully. How can I understand an idea properly if I keep myself busy ridiculing it? Explaining Autism : open key insights into symptoms, diagnosis, and support strategies to help individuals and families better understand autism. Equally important is the need to reclaim the word "autistic" as something that's negative. Of course this verdict of being , under certain circumstances, can be unfortunate, as with the example of Chris Chan, whose poor theory I've covered here. Instead, let's embrace the diversity of the spectrum, recognizing the unique strengths and talents each individual possesses. That is important, you see, in organizations, too. One way to do it, for example, is by merit-planning. Finally, let's dispel the harmful and inaccurate stereotype that autism equates to intellectual retardation . The spectrum, as its name suggests, is expansive, encompassing individuals with a wide range of cognitive abilities. Many on the spectrum demonstrate exceptional intelligence, while others function within a different range. Regardless, each individual deserves respect and acceptance for their unique contributions to the world. In essence, remember that communication is first of all a bridge, and it doesn't need to be a battlefield. It is the message, for example, that deserves the most priority. When we extend that bridge with empathy and understanding, we not only pave the way for inclusion, but also open ourselves to the enriching diversity of human experience, and get to learn much too, than we would've otherwise. Why not, then, dismantle the walls of ignorance, bridge the gaps with patience? After all, learning is very much worth our while. Especially when applied for life. Offer a helping hand for your own sake. Explain things patiently, in ways that resonate with their unique framework. Don't call treat different people like children. You wouldn't want to induce a panic attack, now, would you? No, this isn't a threat. To put it simply... Learning from past mistakes, even those that aren't your own, can spare you much unnecessary suffering from both sides. As a bonus, do enjoy a source about autism and internet safety.

For more articles on the Undead Metaphor: https://www.philosocom.com/post/a-monologue-from-the-undead-philosopher https://www.philosocom.com/post/the-undead-and-the-examination-of-life https://www.philosocom.com/post/the-rebirth-of-the-undead-philosopher-a-comment-analysis https://www.philosocom.com/post/the-grey-philosopher-inspired-poem Flight of the Ruby Tomato's Seeds https://www.philosocom.com/post/philosophy-and-joy Article Synopsis by Mr. John Igwe and Co. The article "Undead: My Story, a New Type, and a Complete Directory" is an introspective exploration of personal transformation through the lens of the undead metaphor. It blends existential themes with the concept of societal disillusionment, offering a creative and powerful way to explore complex ideas about self-realization, alienation , and societal critique. The article's strengths include its unique metaphor, raw authenticity, philosophical depth, rhetorical power, and emotional transition from video game addiction to philosophical enlightenment. In conclusion, the article is a passionate, thought-provoking, and imaginative exploration of personal and societal disillusionment. (Background music) Death is not the greatest loss in life. The greatest loss is what dies inside us while we live. -- Norman Cousins Anger and embarrassment are often neighbors. -- Amy Poehler Awkward Introduction (Note: This was originally written in 2018, and by "Rubinshteinic/Rubinshteinian" I refer to a type of undead I made, and not to Rubinshteinic Individualism , nor to Political Rubinshteinism ). It can be argued that everyone has a background story that made them the person they are today. Hereby the story that made me a partially ascetic, partially solitary, philosopher and "undead". Metaphorically, of course.... Onwards with the show! The Exposure to Awkwardness I am my own type of undead , a hybrid of a lich and a revenant, a Rubinshteinian, a product of intellect combined with asceticism , or simply a lich revenant. Let me tell you my story, traveler. There once was a child who spent his entire childhood playing video games. Whether the sky was sunny and bright or cloudy and windy, that child kept playing video games day and night after school and after homework. He was offered other opportunities to spend his childhood, but no, video games were just too addicting and fulfilling. This was until he was exposed to the Philosophical Realm of the universe by a dear person. When philosophy took hold of his mind and he invested himself in it for long periods of time, the child lost his innocence and began to think about how much he had wasted his entire childhood playing video games, instead of doing other things that were considered more worthwhile and productive. He realized that he had missed out on so much by spending all of his time playing video games. He had never learned how to interact with the world in a meaningful way. He was ashamed of himself for wasting so much time, and he vowed to make up for it. Make up for it, by rectifying the world! The Emotionality Behind Article Barony As he entered his teenage years, the boy was offered many other things, but they no longer mattered to him. Philosophy has replaced video games. Philosophy helped him realize how awkward reality really is. How you all treat your own perception, whether unique or shared, like its external reality. Like, reality is clear to you just because you feel it is clear. Like, your own lack of critical thinking makes you right the greater you lack critical thinking. Like, your expertise, and not just your critical thinking, makes you competent and makes you deserving of being in authority. Like, your own lack of ability to look both ways, makes your own way far more right than any of the ways you don't bother looking at. Like, applying the strawman's fallacy to things you don't bother researching and learning further, makes you more knowledgeable. It's silly and observing this all my life made me feel dead inside more and more. Dead inside and full of rage I utilize for productivity. Rage, as I realize more and more how intellectually incompetent most people are. Rage, because I have a strange desire to rectify the world, which is also done by making people not this logically incompetent. Logical incompetence, because I see this stupid, stupid illogical behavior that are often agreed as logical because others also lack critical thinking. To deter oneself from their own incompetence, they apply whataboutism , to make themselves sound logical, despite using a fallacy yet again. This utter liking of the very things that shoot themselves in the foot, like electing people who don't care about the people they elect; like marrying a person they choose to betray ; like living somewhere expansive, despite being able to move to a cheaper residence, and then complaining about how expensive their rent is, without understanding how prestige bias affects finances!! That people adore singers because feeling good is "necessarily" good, but rectifying the very planet we all share , is hard; That hard, is "necessarily" not good because it doesn't feel good to be concerned! Because we "need" to smile instead! And escape negativity, that escaping our problems is good because alcohol and other nonsense feels good! That me, the person who thinks and is concerned about this world, is a narcissist because I don't care about collective hedonism, but about this world! To See Beyond Our Mere Acceptance Beyond doing what was necessary to grant time for self-actualization , isn't everything else that is unnecessary but has the potential for fun like a "video game"? Isn't society a stimulation programmed by perception-limiting norms , just as a video game is a stimulation programmed by its developers? Isn't much of society a fabrication, as if we are trapped in a virtual reality? When I control the character in a video game. I am not really that character, in their "video game"; it is simply a puppet created by people I don't really know or care about in my own, uncanny, detached, moral experience . They give me a role in their mental dimension , and think their perception of me is the real me. All of us do it, yet to fully understand someone you need to learn that person first. Learning is hard when you are bored , and hard is harder when you refuse to see difficulty as a challenge that grows you as a person yourself. The same goes for the "character" in society -- they are merely a product of norms which are external to you and which do not care about you personally. Beyond the veil of herd mentality, why would you want to partake in society voluntarily if not for its necessities? Rather, they care mostly, if not only, about the "character" you are controlling, the one that many are convinced is themselves because that's how the norms have made them think... That we do not exist beyond society to at least some degree. The social ego is just a creation of norms and traditions that don't care about you and don't care if you care about them, just like the developers of a video game! And, once you fail too much following it, you will be discarded as if all your positive qualities don't matter in the slightest. Because behaving is there to cater to the wants and needs of the overly sensitive . Wanting people to be more accepting of each other, and more honest about what they prefer denying, is somehow egocentric. Such people, who confine themselves to their matrix of pain they don't even want to feel, those who refuse to understand, and prefer to judge as a way to protect themselves from the reality beyond their perception. This is a very alienating insight, solved only by the ability to actually work to become a more logical being. This is why I conclude with much eccentricity that video games and life in the external world are fake realities; masks that we put on ourselves or that are put on us by others that teach us these masks are our true faces. It is a force of habit that we keep regulating the same conventional methods that hinder us from understanding beyond fabrications of our own making. The Folly of Deluded Theatre We may gain pleasure and entertainment from playing a character in a video game, like playing a role in society, but ultimately all of this fun, drama, and entertainment is derived from faking, from delusion, from acting. We just learn to believe that we are the role we play in society, just like we refer to the actions of our video game characters to ourselves. Shoot him! Shoot that! And slowly we even think we are competent enough to be one-man-armies in our desire for joy and hubris. In our desire to grow, in our inability to grow beyond these labels and beyond ourselves in virtuality. This is what led me to ponder during my first years as a self-made philosopher: Is there anything more to life than the “video game” that is society and societal life? I honestly resorted to nihilism as a result of my former helplessness. Coping With Increased Awkwardness I realized, however, that there was hope for me. There is a life of relative solitude, fortified from the fakeness and absurdity of the theater we call “real life.” To protect my mind from being so angry and humiliated by my own high expectations towards this world, I prefer to calm my mind and just analyze and solve such problems philosophically. It is a life with plenty of free time that one can domesticate to live a life of fulfillment, self-actualization, and independent thought. It is a perfect life for an ex-gamer who wishes to explore the world after years of wanting to discover it, less and less, as my feelings of being dead-inside only increase in an overwhelming rate. Overwhelming rate until my mind disconnected from reality as a form to protect myself from this frustration. Frustration I now use far more productively. To help others. Transmuting my anger into high-quality, free philosophical articles is, really, all I want to do for the rest of my life. Otherwise, I would be consumed by my own rage. Deviating Orthodoxy For Mental Survival And this is why, traveler, I see no need to follow the typical life trajectory of an average person. For a Rubinshteinian undead, however, it is that you are born, you work and study at the same time, and then you die! You work/study to rectify the world, and that's the only reason you return to the world as this type of human undead, consumed by the depravities of humanity . Consumed, and unwilling to be silent about it. Far, far more willing to help. Yet, this help is done in solitude... The more unique you are, the greater the path to authenticity lies within a more extensive and voluntary solitude. The world is designed for simpletons that render geniuses, the disabled, incompetent ones. Sometimes, as the arrogant villains as well . This realization kills you and resurrects you from the death in the depths of existential despair. From being broken, to becoming stronger from within. Strong. Moral. Aggressive. Asocial. An anti-villain. Conclusions That's a Rubinshteinian for you, traveler—a hybrid of a lich. An intellectual so far from being a faker, he can be compared to an undead ; A revenant—one that abstains from the full life, but remains among the living nonetheless, through the labor of an iron way of life. I am one such iron, and I shall grant this new type of undead to the world for all to use both as a lifestyle and as a source of knowledge and insight. I am a Rubinshteinian who offers his philosophical articles to the world he hates, to better foster a world he and many others can love. None could now go and tell me that I am a waste of space when I am using my solitude to contribute to the people around the world in my own individual way—the way of the ascetic philosopher, the Rubinshteinian! An underground thinker and teacher that cares not for the academy. Should you wish for insight, just let me know. Otherwise, I see little reason to talk to most of you. Enjoy my care for you, and respect my desire for distance!

(Inspired music) Oh, Humanity, can't you see? You're preventing yourselves from living in greater harmony. Oh, such impulsivity... You're being, too much, destructive. Observe how your short-sight-seeing obscures your serenity, As you choose justice over wisdom, and get PTSD... Depression, loneliness and, of course, anxiety... No, not going to partake in your naive insanity. Oh, Humanity, You require more philosophy. Can't, you, see? Your unexamined intent leads to poverty. Poverty not just of money but also of much joy, Poverty of your much mental safety to employ. And I'll be not, going, not at all, To deepen further, your own, black hole. You see criticism as a threat, Instead of a lending hand; Choose reasons to insult, Just not to feel at fault. I refuse being an unlearning fool, And maintain a stagnating social rule, Avoiding you, is what I must do, And I must keep doing it, for you. Mr. John Igwe and Co.'s Poem Analysis "The Doctrine of Ethical Isolation -- To Avoid What Is Ill For Its Redemption" is a poem that explores the themes of humanity's self-destructive tendencies , and the need for philosophical reflection. An addition is the personal resolve to avoid contributing to societal decay. The poem is composed of four stanzas, each with several lines of varying length, reflecting the chaotic nature of the issues it addresses. The themes include humanity's self-destructive behaviors, short-sightedness vs. wisdom, philosophical reflection, and isolation as a defense mechanism. The poem uses repetition, metaphor, rhetorical questions, and contrast to emphasize Mr. Tomasio's plea for awareness and change. The "black hole" metaphor in the third stanza effectively conveys the deepening despair and destruction resulting from unexamined lives. The use of rhetorical questions engages the reader and prompts introspection. The contrast between "justice" and "wisdom" and the resultant mental health issues highlights the unintended consequences of impulsive actions. The poem effectively conveys a sense of urgency and concern regarding humanity's current trajectory , calling for philosophical reflection and wisdom over impulsive justice. The choice to isolate oneself as a means of avoiding participation in societal decay is a compelling, albeit controversial, stance that invites further discussion. The poem's irregular structure and lack of consistent rhyme mirror the disorder it critiques, making it a poignant reflection on the need for deeper philosophical engagement and personal responsibility in the face of societal challenges.

(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. O. C. Isaac's Articles) (The Subcategory Directory: Towards Understanding African Communalism and Western Capitalism: A Comparative Guide (By Mr. E. David, E. Peter, Mr. J. Igwe) ( philosocom.com ) The South Sudan National Revolutionary Movement Manifesto (By Mr. M. A. Cayier) ( philosocom.com ) Across Human Knowledge: An Approach to Issues In Political Development (By Ogbule Chibuzo Isaac) ( philosocom.com ) How To Examine Human Activities -- A Collection of Guides (By Mr. Ogbule Chibuzo Isaac) ( philosocom.com ) ) Article Synopsis by Mr. J. Igwe and Co. The article "Trying to Understand Pre-Socratic African Philosophy" by Mr. Ogbule Chibuzo Isaac explores the origins of African philosophy and its potential connections to early Greek thought. It aims to bridge a gap in historical scholarship by examining the possibility of an African philosophical tradition that predates or parallels the well-known Pre-Socratic Greek philosophers. The article is commendable for bringing African philosophy into the discussion, especially in a context where the focus is often predominantly on Western traditions. The article critically examines the claim that Greek philosophers, such as Pythagoras and Herodotus, were influenced by Egyptian thought, presenting different viewpoints and acknowledging the ongoing scholarly debate. It emphasizes the importance of linking philosophy to cultural experience , highlighting the rich intellectual history of Africa. The article calls for further exploration, acknowledging the limitations in the current evidence for Pre-Socratic African philosophy, encouraging further research and dialogue. In conclusion, Mr. Isaac's article is a valuable contribution to the discussion of African philosophy and its potential connections to early Greek thought. Definitional Problem of Philosophy The definition of philosophy has been a perennial philosophical issue or debate . There is no universally agreed-upon definition of philosophy. Some people define it as the critical examination of the ideas that people live by, while others define it as the study of the nature of reality and knowledge. Still others define it as the search for wisdom . Philosophy is rooted in human experience, belief, conception, and thought. It is about the way we think about these things, and how they shape our understanding of the world. To think is to contemplate from a particular perspective, and our perspectives are always influenced by our own experiences, beliefs, and values. The term ‘ pre-Socratic ’ refers to the philosophers who lived in Greece before Socrates. They are called ‘natural philosophers’ because they were primarily concerned with the nature of the physical world and its processes. Their inquiries can be classified into four categories: cosmogony, cosmology, zoogony, and zoology, and anthropology and physiology. Cosmogony is the study of the origin of the universe. Cosmology is the study of the structure and evolution of the universe. Zoogony is the study of the origin of one particular animal. Zoology is the study of all animals. Anthropology is the study of human beings, their behavior, and their societies, both past and present. Physiology is the study of the normal functioning of living organisms. Towards a Definition of African Philosophy Following from the above, we are now in a better position to answer our initial question: what is African philosophy ? It is true that there are as many definitions of philosophy, but it is possible, according to Staniland , to say that it is the critical examination of the ideas that people live by . In the same vein, it is a difficult task to give an accurate or faultless definition of African philosophy. However, be that as it may, we can identify some essential ingredients about what philosophy is. For anything to be philosophical, it has to do with the reflection on the experience of a society, group, or an individual. This reflection has been necessitated by wonder about some compelling problems of life and existence. Another essential ingredient is that such reflection must be critical and logical . As long as anybody or group meets these requirements, such a person or group can be said to engage in what is called philosophy . To that extent, for anything to qualify as African philosophy, it must meet the requirements stipulated above. Therefore, we submit that what African philosophy is involves the application of the above categories of conceptual analysis, logic, criticism, and synthesis to the reflections on issues that are of paramount importance to the African needs and ways of life. In this context, "African" is not based exclusively on geographical unity , but also on certain shared values among Africans. Absolutely, African philosophy is deeply rooted in the cultural experience, tradition, and history of the continent. It often emphasizes values like coexistence with nature, collectivism, and a spiritual orientation . This philosophy differs from Western philosophical traditions and highlights unique perspectives on life, ethics, and society. What then is Pre-Socratic African Philosophy? The claim that philosophy existed in Africa even before Greek philosophers began to philosophize is a topic of debate among scholars . Some argue that there might have been influences from Egyptian thought , but the extent and nature of these influences are not universally agreed upon. It is important to consider various perspectives when discussing the origins of African philosophy and its connections to other ancient civilizations. The claim that Greek philosophers studied in Egypt is based on several factors. One argument is that there are similarities between certain concepts in Greek and Egyptian philosophies, suggesting a possible cross-cultural exchange of ideas. Additionally, historical records indicate that ancient Greek scholars, like Pythagoras and Herodotus , traveled to Egypt for learning. Some proponents of the Egyptian origin theory point to the significance of Egypt as a center of learning and knowledge in the ancient world. However, this idea is not without controversy, as scholars continue to study and debate the extent of influence and interactions between these civilizations. Pythagoras and Herodotus are believed to have traveled to Egypt to acquire knowledge and learn from the ancient Egyptian culture. Pythagoras, the mathematician and philosopher, is said to have traveled to Egypt to study mathematics, astronomy, and philosophy. Herodotus, the ancient Greek historian, visited Egypt during the 5th century BCE and wrote about his observations of the country's culture, customs, and history. Their travels to Egypt are often cited as evidence of cross-cultural exchange and potential influences between Greek and Egyptian civilizations. However, there is no concrete evidence to support the claim that Greek philosophers studied in Egypt. The similarities between Greek and Egyptian philosophies could be due to parallel developments or to other forms of cross-cultural exchange. Additionally, the historical records of Greek scholars traveling to Egypt are not definitive, and they could be interpreted in other ways. Ultimately, the evidence suggests that Greek philosophy primarily originated from the work of Greeks themselves, with any external influences potentially coming from the monotheistic religions of nearby civilizations. The claim of African Pre-Socratic philosophy remains an open question, and it is one that continues to be debated by scholars. While there is evidence of early philosophical thought in various ancient cultures , some scholars suggest that Egyptian thought could have influenced the development of philosophy due to its complex religious, ethical, and metaphysical beliefs. However, direct evidence connecting Egyptian thought to the origins of Western philosophy is limited, and the exact origins of philosophy remain a topic of debate among historians and scholars. (Mr. Rubinshtein's note: I'd like to suggest that perhaps there was such philosophy, but it wasn't recorded, or was recorded, but became lost to time . It goes to show the importance of leaving a legacy after you , so you could be remembered for your efforts and contributions. Philosophers such as Socrates and Diogenes would've been lost as well if they were not recorded, and if their recordings didn't survived long enough to reach relevancy ).

(Background music) (Philosocom's Subcategory on Suikoden Content) Article Synopsis by Ms. Gabbi Grace Depth in Simplicity -- Insights From Coin Tossing -- The Philosophy of Simplicity" is a thought-provoking article that explores the philosophical dimensions hidden within everyday activities, such as a coin toss. The writer uses the metaphor of a simple game to delve into deeper themes of patience, timing , and the pursuit of mastery, providing a refreshing take on how seemingly trivial activities can contain profound lessons. The article's strengths include its creative metaphorical framework, which incorporates insights from Robert Greene's "48 Laws of Power," especially the law concerning timing, and references to Confucius, providing historical context and grounding the modern narrative in timeless wisdom. Mr. Tomasio's personal narrative and reflection add a relatable and engaging dimension to the piece, encouraging readers to connect their own experiences with the broader insights presented. The article succeeds in illustrating how philosophical insights can be applied practically, encouraging readers to think about their actions as exercises in self-discipline , focus, and mastery. The emphasis on applying learned skills, clearing one's mind, and practicing patience makes the philosophy accessible and actionable for a wider audience. The engaging writing style is lively and engaging, filled with moments of wit and concise expressions that make complex philosophical ideas approachable and enjoyable. In conclusion, "Depth in Simplicity -- Insights From Coin Tossing -- The Philosophy of Simplicity" is a creative and thought-provoking piece that successfully bridges everyday experience with philosophical inquiry. From Luck to Mastery During my time as a child, there was a mini-game in one of my favorite video games -- a coin toss game, and the music theme that accompanied that game was called "Depth in Simplicity." One might think to themselves, what depth is there in such a simple game, such as a coin toss? Obviously, in order to win a coin toss game, you need luck, which is the most basic element when it comes to playing games, simply because it's the one thing that is beyond your control. In some cases, like when it comes to associating with people , you can increase your chances of luck by becoming wiser. However, in coin tossing you mainly need to concentrate on the coin. And it's something that isn't as calculated as contemplating on the people in your life. You must be swift and precise at the same time, which could be more difficult to do than increasing your wisdom. As I played it more and more, I realized that the seemingly simple act of a coin toss transformed into a test of delicate skill. The mini-game I was playing wasn't just about luck; it was about mastering the art of timing. Hit the timing right, and you'll overcome your foe. Master the art of timing, and you'll win some good gambling money from him. Timing is the 35th law out of Robert Greene's 48 Laws of Power . It goes like this: Never seem to be in a hurry -- hurrying betrays a lack of control over yourself, and over time. Always seem patient, as if you know that everything will come to you eventually. Become a detective of the right moment; sniff out the spirit of the times, the trends that will carry you to power. Learn to stand back when the time is not yet ripe, and to strike fiercely when it has reached fruition. Thus, coin tossing, while a simple activity, is a test in wisdom, or in the ability to correctly apply your experience (AKA, your sight and focus of the coin's movement). To increase your chance of winning you must learn to clear your head out of unnecessary thoughts and emotions. Do not accept with full tolerance anything which hinders you from success, even if it is deep inside of you. How to Master Simplicity It gradually became my second-favorite minigame in that video game, simply because of the timing involved. Later on, I applied the same in bowling minigames. It wasn't just blind luck; it was a matter of patience and striking when the time was right. Miss a second or two and you'd lose both to your opponent and your hard-earned in-game money. This simple coin toss game became a profound lesson in the power of simplicity. It's a gamble that rewards you with power (money in this case) when you apply your wisdom correctly. It is of no COINcidence that a good ruler is not only a moral ruler but a wise one. As such, he/she will, for example, allow their subjects the freedom of expression, regardless of what their opinions make him/her feel. To quote Confucius : You may rob the Three Armies of their commander, but you cannot deprive the humblest peasant of his opinion. Like emotions shouldn't get in the way of management, they shouldn't get in the way of a simple coin toss game. Even the most basic things can be mastered, and that mastery doesn't require complexity, once you understand what needs to be done. When you already have the plan, the reason in mind, all you need to do is to train yourself to apply it. If the plan fails, devise a new one, and apply it instead. The universe is built on logic, in a way the internet is built on code. Understand the code and you'll better understand the universe. That is the most basic element in philosophy: The ability to apply the code, or logic of reality, into different departments of it, and act in accordance with what you've learned. However, let us not confuse simplicity with primitiveness. Primitiveness lacks depth. Simplicity depends not only on the act itself but also on its practitioner. The more talented you are, the simpler the subject of talent could become. Therefore, simplicity is largely subjective. It is the interplay, the flow, between an action and between the one who does it. Simplicity becomes mastery when you can, for example, "do something with one hand tied behind your back". You become so good at it, elements of your own body become unnecessary in order to perform an excellent execution. That is the depth in simplicity, when you can even write a philosophy article in such a way most people would easily understand it, without much effort needed. It is a degree of skill I often ponder if I'll ever be able to actualize, thus further promoting philosophy's relevance. A "primitive" coin toss player throws the coin and hopes for the best. They don't understand the nuances of timing, the importance of patience, and they give up easily when faced with setbacks. They don't learn from their mistakes, and may even often commit the causal fallacy , confusing logic with the arcane. In contrast, a master of the game cultivates a sense of calm focus, waiting for the perfect moment to secure their victory. They depend themselves on technique, and far less on faith. It is something they can actually examine and work on as if it was physical exercise . This experience with the coin toss game influenced my approach to life. As an adult, I find myself drawn to the simplicity of my childhood, comparing the work I do as similar to games I played. Both work and games are things that can be mastered through training and examination of one's abilities. I am good at some games like philosophy because I think about my own thinking, in relation to the activities I do. By making this a habit, you can better examine your mistakes and learn how to not repeat them. It's just like I realized I must ignore my emotions in order to be good at coin tossing, to be good at Tekken , and to be good at philosophy . Living in the real world, however, often feels overwhelming in its unnecessary complexity. I've witnessed the stress of noisy neighbors, the frustration of students and teachers alike. There's a truth to the Hebrew saying. The external world seems to thrive on complication, despite the unhealthy impact of the stress that follows on our mentality and medical condition. I deviated from its orthodoxy on purpose. Finding Focus and Harmony in a Chaotic World And I do not regret the solitude that followed, for it is the solitude of which I seek to train in the art of writing philosophy articles. It was only in solitude that I discovered a profound sense of contentment, a feeling I called "solitarus" - a love for existence nurtured by long periods of quiet reflection. This sense of peace was disrupted by the negativity I encountered on platforms like Quora, where people readily choose anger, hatred, and stress over the path of harmony and serenity. Just like the coin toss game, maintaining composure is key . When emotions run high, focus fades, and the precise timing needed for success is lost. The game encourages a state of calm yet relentless focus. It's a skill that translates well into real-life situations. Only those who can stay relaxed and concentrated can achieve their desired outcome. While your opponent's skill matters, it's ultimately beyond your control. That is unless you cheat, which is immoral and exploits the game out of its ability to teach you valuable lessons. Even if the opponent is a formidable player, improving your own merit secures the steady increase of your in-game wealth. A wealth that grants you access to greater strength in other departments (your army, its equipment and so on). So why waste energy worrying about your opponent, when worrying about your own skill could be important not only for you but also for others' usefulness in the long run? Focus on what you can control -- your own meticulous timing, your faith in yourself, and in your ability to judge your merit. After all, bad faith only increases the odds of losing to a superior opponent. Positivity could yield better results. Mr. Nathan Lasher's Short Intermission Using a coin toss to your advantage. Come across anything resulting in split choices. Write down a list of reasons why you should pick that option. Assign each option as either heads or tails. Flip and let the coin decide what you should do. Most likely your gut will tell you what to do as it will lead you to wanting one outcome over the other. Thus making the coin toss irrelevant.  What The Coin Tossing Proprietor Failed in Understanding In the larger game, the name of your opponent is Igor. His main function is to open the coin-toss minigame in your base, which thus led me to write this article. So, thank you, Igor; your coins taught me a lot, even if you believed you had little use in my army. " Mr. Tom ? Well, I think he could come by to relax more often. It seems to me that he is ever so tired." Igor, from Suikoden IV

(Background music) Delving into the Realm of Sages A few years ago, I embarked on a quest to unravel the mysteries surrounding the term " sage ," seeking answers to the questions: What constitutes a sage, and how does one attain sage-hood? The inherent challenge with this topic lies in the abstract nature of the term "sage," which makes the term elusive for a wide understanding. While we can widely understand what a chair or table is, do we have the same clear understanding of what a sage is? Not necessarily. One of my Philosocom readers suggested that the pursuit of sagehood is an ongoing journey of self-discovery . They further emphasized that sagehood is not a finite state but rather an evolving process. After delving into various video resources on this subject, I formulated my own definition of a sage... A sage is essentially a synonym for " master ," specifically a master of wisdom . Their expertise is not necessarily limited to a single domain... This stereotypical portrayal is entailed in various media forms, including books, movies, and video games. Carl Jung even developed an archetype centered on this concept. A sage is an individual sought after for counsel, which they provide with competence and effectiveness. Therefore, a sage is a being capable of imparting the wisdom which they initially seek, on a regular basis. The Overused Sage Label: A Critique So, I offered my definition of a sage, acknowledging the term's inherent abstraction. However, I'd also like to address the pervasive and often uncritical use of the term "sage" in society. This casual application risks diminishing the profound significance of true sagehood. The issue lies in the fact that words and their meaning can easily change over time with the fluid nature of human communication. For example, the term "minion" back in my day, used to be synonymous with the word "henchman" or "lackey". Today however, it got a distinct meaning thanks to a popular film franchise for children . The same can be applicable to the word "sage" when it is used carelessly and regularly, until its original meaning loses its intended purpose, in favor of another meaning. It's important to recognize that true sagehood is not a title to be bestowed lightly, as for one to be a sage, one must be capable of dispensing wisdom on a regular basis and be recognized as distinct in this field. True sagehood represents a greater level of wisdom, self-mastery and other such virtues, attained through a lifelong journey of self-discovery and dedication to the pursuit of knowledge and truth. The overuse of the term "sage", along with "philosopher" risks trivializing this concept , thus taking out its original purpose due the ever-developing nature of our language. When we label individuals as sages without enough consideration, we diminish the weight and significance of true sagehood, thus deluding ourselves, and perhaps them as well. It becomes a mere buzzword, devoid of the depth it can have. I have no power to forbid you to do so. I am merely warning you about acting on petty emotion, and how doing so can impair our judgement, of even our own conception of certain words. Therefore, I urge for a more thoughtful and discerning approach to the use of the term "sage." As well, of course, other words of abstract depth, such as "philosopher". Let us reserve it for those who have genuinely earned it: Those who embody the wisdom, merit, and self-mastery that true sage-hood represents. Doing otherwise can easily lead to not only delusion but pretentiousness as well. And if we want to reduce both, we must acknowledge reality, and not deny it. It isn't elitism and it isn't gatekeeping. No. I'm speaking of being faithful to the original meaning of certain words, in order to preserve their true intentions, over the course of communication's evolution. For if we do not preserve these meanings, like we preserve history, we can easily lose said meanings. And why should we lose these meanings, when they are imperative to our understanding of the reality they represent? The Essence of a Sage: Wisdom, Courage, and the Pursuit of Knowledge I believe that attaining true sagehood demands the courage to acknowledge one's own wisdom and the resilience to navigate the social implications of being an outsider among "average", or non-distinct, individuals. Perhaps, as there are social risks to being a philosopher , there might be distinct, greater risks in that regard, when being a sage. The distinction between a philosopher and a sage lies in their possession of knowledge. A philosopher actively seeks knowledge, driven by an insatiable thirst for understanding reality. In contrast, a sage has already attained this wisdom, embodying it in their actions and imparting it to others. Loving wisdom signifies a deep-seated passion for the pursuit of knowledge, not merely its acquisition. And it is through this passion, even if it makes one suffer, is when a philosopher can slowly but surely transform into an esteemed sage, capable of assisting anyone who wishes to become his or her followers or apprentices. How can you know when you are a philosopher by heart, and yet a sage? By looking within yourself and finding out how much you still crave for insight. Because when you crave for insights, you crave for something you want to attain. Wanting to attain something, means getting what you currently do not have. I choose to suffer , and see my suffering as granted by seeking, hoarding and distributing insights. Not yet settling with the notion of being a sage, I want to be as insightful as possible. And I refuse to be satisfied, as long as more insights are to be gained, consumed and shared. I will resume building an empire of wisdom until I die. It's the only thing I have left to do. My young age matters not.

Article Synopsis by Ms. Gabbi Grace The article "How to Bridge the Gap of the Ideal Self" by Mr. Tomasio Rubinshtein is a thought-provoking exploration of self-improvement and the journey towards becoming one's ideal self. It offers an in-depth analysis of the psychological aspects of self-criticism and the emotional complexity involved in this journey, adding depth to the discussion. The text also provides a balanced perspective by addressing the need for both self-acceptance and ruthlessness, acknowledging that while pushing ourselves towards improvement, we must also accept and understand our current limitations. Practical advice is provided, such as overcoming short-term temptations and setting realistic goals, which can be applied to personal development journeys. Philosophical insights into tough love versus true love and the role of asceticism offer a broader perspective on values and mindsets that can aid self-improvement. In conclusion, Mr. Tomasio's article provides a compelling and thoughtful exploration of the gap between our current and ideal selves. The blend of philosophical insight with practical advice makes it a valuable read for those seeking to navigate the challenging journey of self-improvement. ********** Only the Best You can ever have the best life for You. The good of You is inseperable from the good of the world around you. You are the story you tell about how you fit into the world and society. -- Mr. Kaiser Basileus  On a cosmic scale, take the very large, and switch places with the very small, and I suspect the Universe would look very much the same. -- Mr. John Duran (Background music) Part I: Bridging the Gap With Unconventional Values There is usually a gap between ourselves and our ideal self, the self that we want to become. When we do things that hinder our path to this self, such as submitting to temptation instead of working towards our goals, we can often feel disappointed in ourselves, knowing that we could have been closer to our ideal self than we currently are. This is a possible reason why some of us may criticize ourselves harshly ( and others as well ). We know that we could have been somewhere else in life—somewhere better. However due to our own weakness and our refusal to be otherwise , we have failed to advance, which may also result in a decrease in our self-worth . You may often find that in order to become the people we truly want to be, as in the example of physical exercise , we need to be ruthless towards our current self, in the name of the self we want to become. Pitfalls of Self-Acceptance Accept your current self, love your current self, and you won't aim to change it for the man or woman you truly want to become. Our difficulty to forgive, as hard as it is , can be utilized for that purpose of improving ourselves. And there is no aim for improvement that isn't an aim for a change. That's because all improvement is change. Allow yourself to be pleased with yourself, you'll allow yourself to not become as stronger as you could've been. Be ruthless towards those who are dear to you, and you can help them improve as well, if that's your intention. Ruthlessness might as well be an expression of tough love . And tough love, unlike true love , even if directed at ourselves, is about change . True love is about full acceptance of who someone is. There is no tough love, as stern as it is, that isn't about one's hope for someone to change for the better. Even if that someone, is ourselves. Part II: Temptations as Obstacles to Who We Want to Become If we overcome short-term temptations in favor of long-term advancement, we may criticize ourselves less harshly. In many cases, short-term temptations are not worth it in contrast to our long-term goals. As in corruption that can stain your legacy; As in the temptation to betray the faithful; As in having power as a philosopher. Should you develop the habit of forgiving yourself over your own incompetence towards your goals, and you can normalize being fine not becoming our ideal self. The most effective way to work towards your goals is to be ruthless towards yourself. Refusing to forgive yourself, while overcoming the useless aspects of guilt associated with it , allows you to extend and further apply your potential into reality. If we find ourselves submitting to short-term temptations that hinder our progress to our ideal self, we should ask ourselves whether or not being harsh on ourselves is really worth our time and energy. I don't know, perhaps to some of you it does. Perhaps, some of you, too weak to handle criticism, may struggle with it. The solution comes when we learn to accept criticism professinally , even from ourselves, and learn to detach from anything that hinders us towards reaching our ideal selves. That may include our emotions. Despite the Difficulties of Failure Even if we ultimately do not reach our ideal selves, which is a possibility, we can still enjoy and feel good about ourselves even if we believe we can be in a better position in life. Indeed, one of the benefits of a more ascetic life and mindset is the ability to find comfort and satisfaction in the present moment and in what is presently available, rather than making us suffer over what we don't have yet or have failed to achieve thus far. Part III: The Value of Realism Another solution is to bring our ideal self into proportion. The further we put our ideal self beyond the sphere of realism, the more likely we are to suffer for not being able to reach it regardless of our efforts. Thus, when it comes to the ideal self, one should balance between two values: realism and success . Achieve the first by making your ideal self within reach, and the second by working hard towards your goals to become the best person you can possibly be. All of this takes one thing: compromise. But you need to make sure you don't delude yourself. You need to further learn about yourself , to understand what it truly can become, and what it can't become. Give up what you cannot become (or have a very low chance of becoming) in favor of working towards what you are likely to become with enough improvement. That way, your struggle towards a better self will become practical.

(Background music) Why Solitude Can Be a Way to Self-Discovery The term "looking within" is not meant to be taken literally. It does not mean seeing your internal organs, but rather seeing yourself beyond the sphere of societal interactions and day-to-day regularity. It means seeing yourself as a distinct individual with a degree of depth that is often overlooked. There are many ways to discover the deeper aspects of yourself, and many of them involve voluntary isolation , or solitude. This is because when you are alone, there are fewer things and beings to distract you from what you are doing. Solitude can provide the concentration and silence necessary for self-reflection. Any activity, like writing, which is solitary , can lead to self-discovery. Cultivating Self-Awareness The deeper aspects of yourself are always present within you, regardless of the situation. It is simply that we do not regularly pay enough attention to them, due to the necessity of focusing on other things for our survival and development. Free time is therefore a good means of looking within. If you ask a random person what they are thinking about, they are likely to not know what to answer. This is because we as humans are always producing and experiencing thoughts . But without enough awareness, we cannot describe them or what they entail. Dedicate some time to listening to your thoughts, and even record them in whatever form you choose. Your thoughts are the gates to the desired aspects of the self you may be looking for: The ideal self. You can thus know that you have looked within yourself in a sufficient manner when you are able to properly describe what you’re thinking about when asked so in whatever situation. You can see it as a test of the current capacity of your self-knowledge . Have someone ask you this exact question from time to time ("What you've been thinking about?"), and you may be able to pass this test, the more you practice focusing and/or recording your thoughts and feelings. It's just like any other test that requires an immediate answer. Learn to look within yourself naturally, and you'll gain the great benefit of explaining yourself to those who fail to understand you properly. Demonstrating your strengths and weaknesses is better than simply saying you have them in general. Understanding ourselves better can further increase harmony in society when it allows us to better put boundaries and find common ground with others. As such, looking within is also capable of generating altruistic value. Feedback by Mr. Nathan Lasher Self-Discovery doesn’t have to be an internal thing you are trying to figure out through solitude. Yes, time to yourself is important, but if one would like to truly know themself simply do so by going out and experiencing life. How you react to it all will give you a good idea of the type of person you are. It's all about trial and error. Go out and try something, see in which ways you can be better and go out and try again until you're satisfied with the outcome than go out and try something new. Experience can do stuff which self evaluation will never be able to do alone. Must give your mind the proper demonstration of who you are. You won’t know what type of person you are if all you’ve ever done was stay at home.  Knowing yourself is not some difficult thing. If you ever want to know who you are, do nothing , pay attention to your actions for one day. Don’t change anything other than noting down the action and reason why you did it. Learn the reason why you do things and you will know the type of person you are.

(Philosocom video game subcategory directory) (Background music) Escapism , Morality, and Video Games Have you ever wanted to wake up in the morning and devise a plan for world domination? Have you ever wanted to start a religion , cult , or country, without anyone getting in your way? What about being ridiculously rich and being able to buy more than the property that is your house and/or business, or, even, commit a mass shooting ? How about being a god-damn drug baron (and not an article baron?) . While we cannot, or should not, do most of these things in real life, the virtual space that is video games is what attracts so many of us into playing them for several hours, if not days -- the ability to be and do things you would probably never be able to do in real life, or, at least, won't be able to do without getting away with it. In a video game, it's "okay" to act like Hitler , "okay" to raid a peaceful village , and "okay" to actualize your deepest sexual fantasies , whether with other players or with fictional entities. Video games tap into our desires for escapism and exploration in a society conditioning mediocrity. They can be very dark, and yet, it is all good and okay as long as we understand the boundaries between the game and reality. They are alternative simulations that can put you in different shoes, a pair of which you will probably never get to wear in real life unless you choose a path of relentless discipline to achieve your dreams. It is no surprise, therefore, that there are certain people (not me) that prefer to spend their lives in virtual worlds rather than in real life. For many, real life can feel boring in comparison to the excitement and agency offered by games. They may even use their boredom as a fallacy, saying that life is not as interesting as their virtual fantasies. That's whether or not they understand the extent of their potential. The Unexpected Aspects of Video Games Beyond work, family, and some hobbies, that is pretty much it for many people, and it will be, probably, for the rest of their lives. Real life might be only more interesting than video games to some people: Children, People in love, Those who can afford the best of luxuries in this world without feeling empty . Masochists ( for the choice to live is the choice to suffer ), Hardworking visionaries. For the rest of us, life is monotonous, and even boring at times. Some if not most of us might only have been living for the next paycheck. Having several generations that grew up on video games, few are, probably, the people, that treat them as toys, when in fact they can be more complex than that. They are no longer the sole interest of kids, teens, and young adults, and there are even elders who might play them on a regular basis. It just goes to show how functional video games are to our lives, and not only for the sake of entertainment, but also, perhaps, as a way to fulfil our fantasies, or at least put us in situations we will never find ourselves in. That is regardless of our endeavors. Imagine playing a game where you can relive the fantasy of which you want to manifest in reality. In a way, games are also virtual simulators of our dreams. Video Games and Moral Depravity The "problem" with video games, of course, begins on the ethical level, when certain people who play them regularly become violent or abusive to others, people that can even be kids. While indeed the younger generations can act wildly, it is still debatable whether or not it is something that begins with video games and ends in real life. That is even though it could , like when a child decides to injure family as a result of them. Consider this: Socrates, a philosopher from ancient Greece , once lamented about the youth's bad manners and disrespect for elders. This quote, literally thousands of years old, suggests that concerns about younger generations' behavior are not exactly new: “The children now love luxury ; they have bad manners, contempt for authority; they show disrespect for elders and love chatter in place of exercise. Children are now tyrants, not the servants of their households. They no longer rise when elders enter the room. They contradict their parents, chatter before company, gobble up dainties at the table, cross their legs, and tyrannize their teachers.” This raises some interesting questions: Are younger generations today any more violent than any other generations of the past, just because of video games and other modern enjoyments? Will a life devoid of any video game, or even any game, make people less violent, less aggressive, and/or abusive? Overcoming the Blame Game: Exploring the Subtlety As a kid who loved war games, I can personally attest to the thrill of virtual conquest. The feeling of achieving victory in a game was unmatched at the time. Obviously, translating that desire to world domination in real life wouldn't work (launching an air strike of airships and paratroopers on my elementary school wasn't exactly). But the point is, the urge for a satisfying challenge or outlet can be fulfilled through safe, virtual means. We need these outlets in life where we could express the honesty of our shadow selves. In fact, video games can provide a time and place where we do not deem our shadow selves as condemnable but as something to be cherished. Therefore, video games can actually help us accept ourselves more, and live in greater peace with our less-liked aspects. I disagree with the belief that video games necessarily make you more violent. In some cases they can relieve and regulate stress, for instance. People who are less stressed are less likely to find themselves being aggressive, for there is a link between stress and aggression. Therefore, people need healthy outlets to express emotions and experiment with behaviors that might be frowned upon in real life. And a healthy outlet is healthy when it doesn't cause unnecessary harm to either oneself or others. The Darker Side of the Mirror: Games and Human Nature Perhaps video games serve a philosophical purpose. They can reflect a darker side of human nature, a side we often repress in polite society. Are we truly benevolent beings if, given the chance in a game, we readily choose to cause virtual mayhem or make villainous decisions? If anything, evil can be most distinct in humans. These choices, while consequence-free in the game, raise a thought-provoking question: What might we do in real life if given the same unrestricted power and opportunity? This is not meant to be an insult to those enjoying games, but rather food for thought. We can thus understand the importance of social norms and restraints, along with the reason why not everyone should have absolute power or unchecked authority. Conclusions Video games offer a complex world of escapism, exploration of opportunity, and even self-discovery. They can be thrilling, thought-provoking, and even a healthy outlet for exploring darker urges in a safe environment. However, concerns about a link to real-world violence remain. While video games themselves may not be inherently bad, certain factors can influence their impact. Excessive gaming, the specific content of the games, and a player's pre-existing mental state are all important considerations, in the attempt to make a less-biased assessment on the matter. You know, look both ways. Video games can be a fantastic form of entertainment, but they shouldn't become a substitute for real-life experience, when we still have the power towards living the life we want to love. That's regardless of that certain activity. Open communication between parents and children, and of course between other people as well, can help ensure a positive and enriching understanding of one of the world's biggest financial industries . Perhaps the most important takeaway is this: video games are a powerful tool, and like any tool, they can be used for good or bad. For that matter they can even be used as propaganda, as with the case of "gaming Jihad" , where games are used (allegedly) as an excuse to brainwash children and teenagers. Understanding the contributions of video games, versus the harm they actually cause, can allow us to better reap the benefits of these virtual worlds while keeping a healthy perspective on the real one. Mr. Nathan Lasher's Feedback Video games teach an important lesson: Life is all about action. Games show us that in order to do anything action must be taken. That is the difference between owning a business and owning a successful one. The owner of the successful one is one who takes action. That is all business is: Action for a particular reason. [If] you have enough particular reasons you want to act on, then your business can never fail. A wrong action is still better than no action . Successful business owners are very efficient at making the right ones. I think people forget the value of video games. Everyone learns [craving] about victory no matter the cost. It makes everyone [reach] victory without appreciating the journey it took to get you there. Everyone wants to quickly hurry up the story mode so they can go online and demonstrate how good they got at it to other people. Anything you want to do in life takes action. The important thing to learn is how to take more effective actions. You can always improve because you can always make better actions. Who cares what means you take to start doing them. The result is the same. Mr. Tomasio is both right and wrong. Video games might tap into a darker nature, but not all games are created equally.... Video games acted as a friend of sorts to me. I had social difficulties growing up where I had trouble connecting with people. Video games supplied me with something to connect to.

(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 ) (Philosocom's Subcategory on Aliens and Outer Space) (Philosocom's Philosophy of Environment Directory) (Philosocom's C. Kingsley and Co. Articles) Article Synopsis By Mr. John Igwe and Co. The article "The Rarity of Life Among Infinite Stars: A Philosophical and Scientific Inquiry" by Chris Kingsley and Joseph Bright is a comprehensive exploration of the enigmatic nature of life in the universe. It provides an extensive and well-organized examination of the factors that influence the existence of life, covering the necessary conditions for life, the Fermi Paradox, the Drake Equation, and the unique conditions that make Earth habitable. The article's clear structure makes it easy to follow, with each section building logically on the previous one. The interdisciplinary approach of the article appeals to a broad audience by integrating scientific facts with philosophical musings. Analogies and examples are used to explain complex concepts in an accessible manner, such as the "Goldilocks zone." The discussion of the Fermi Paradox, Rare Earth Hypothesis, and Great Filter Theory shows engagement with significant hypotheses in astrobiology and cosmology, demonstrating a deep understanding of current scientific debates . In conclusion, the article successfully combines scientific rigor with philosophical inquiry, offering readers a comprehensive and thought-provoking examination of the rarity and significance of life in the universe.   (Background music) Introduction “The universe is not a world of separate things and events but is a cosmos that is connected and coherent. The physical world and spiritual experience are both aspects of the same reality and man and the universe were one” ― Alexis Karpouzos The cosmos is an expanse of unimaginable proportions, a vast arena of infinite stars and planetary systems. Within this immense theater, life on Earth emerges as a singular phenomenon, raising profound questions about the nature and rarity of life. This article delves into the enigmatic interplay between the abundance of life-sustaining conditions and the actualization of life itself. (Mr. Rubinshtein's Note: Also known as the formation of life. Not to be confused with the term from Abraham Maslow's theory). We explore three primary themes: The ratio of the needs/requirements for life among the infinite stars. The propensity of life versus the nothingness we perceive. The propensity of life on Earth against the backdrop of an almost infinite universe of potentially life-allowing systems; The many cosmic regions where not a single extra-terrestrial life form has been detected. Part I: The Ratio of the Needs/Requirements for Life Among Infinite Stars “Be clearly aware of the stars and infinity on high. Then life seems almost enchanted after all.” - - Vincent Van Goch Life, as we understand it, is a delicate balance of numerous factors . It thrives within a narrow range of conditions, often termed the "habitable zone" or "Goldilocks zone," where the temperature, chemical composition, and other environmental factors are just right. In this section, we explore the necessary requirements for life and their prevalence across the cosmos. The Habitable Zone The habitable zone refers to the region around a star where conditions might be right for liquid water to exist—a critical ingredient for life as we know it. The distance from the star, the star's luminosity, and the planet's atmospheric composition all play a crucial role in determining this zone. For instance, Earth resides in the Sun's habitable zone , where temperatures allow for the presence of liquid water. Chemical Composition Beyond the right temperature, the chemical makeup of a planet is paramount. Life on Earth relies on carbon-based molecules , water, and a plethora of other elements such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and sulfur. The presence of these elements in the right proportions is crucial. In our galaxy alone, billions of stars possess planetary systems that may have the necessary chemical ingredients for life. Energy Sources Life requires energy to sustain itself, typically derived from sunlight or chemical reactions. The availability of a stable energy source is vital. On Earth, photosynthesis harnesses sunlight to produce energy, while in some extreme environments, organisms rely on chemosynthesis , deriving energy from chemical reactions involving inorganic compounds. Stability and Time For life to develop and evolve, stable conditions must persist over significant periods. Planetary systems need to remain relatively undisturbed by catastrophic events like supernovas or large asteroid impacts. Additionally, a stable climate and geological processes that recycle essential elements contribute to creating and maintaining a life-sustaining environment. The Prevalence of Life-Sustaining Conditions Despite the stringent requirements for life, recent astronomical discoveries suggest that planets within the habitable zones of their stars are not uncommon . The Kepler Space Telescope , for example, has identified thousands of exoplanets , many of which lie within their star's habitable zone. This finding implies that the fundamental conditions necessary for life might be relatively abundant in the universe. However, the mere presence of these conditions does not guarantee the emergence of life. Part II: The Propensity of Life versus the Nothingness We Perceive Every Planet We Reach is Dead -- Gorillaz Despite the seemingly favorable conditions scattered throughout the cosmos, the observable universe appears largely devoid of life. This paradox prompts a deeper examination of the factors influencing the emergence and detection of life. The Fermi Paradox The Fermi Paradox encapsulates the contradiction between the high probability of extra-terrestrial life and the lack of evidence for, or contact with, such civilizations. Named after physicist Enrico Fermi, it poses a simple yet profound question: If life is common in the universe, why have we not detected any signs of it? Several hypotheses have been proposed to address this paradox: Rare Earth Hypothesis: This theory suggests that while basic habitable conditions might be common, the exact combination of factors that led to complex life on Earth is exceedingly rare. Great Filter Theory: This concept posits that there is a stage in the evolution of life that is extremely difficult to surpass. This "Great Filter" could be behind us, explaining why complex life is rare, or it could lie ahead, suggesting that advanced civilizations are prone to self-destruction or other forms of extinction. Technological Limitations: Our current technological capabilities might be insufficient to detect or recognize signs of extra-terrestrial life. Life might exist in forms or at scales that we cannot yet observe. Temporal Factors : The lifespan of civilizations could be relatively short in cosmic terms, meaning that the overlapping period during which we might detect them is extremely brief. The Limits of Human Perception Our perception of the universe is constrained by our current scientific and technological tools. The vast distances between stars, the limitations of our observational instruments, and our understanding of life's potential forms all contribute to the perceived emptiness. Advances in technology, such as the development of more sensitive telescopes and the exploration of our own solar system's moons and planets , might one day provide answers to the Fermi Paradox. The Role of Abiogenesis Abiogenesis, the process by which life arises naturally from non-living matter, remains one of the greatest mysteries in science. Understanding the conditions and mechanisms that lead to the emergence of life is crucial for assessing its likelihood elsewhere in the universe. Laboratory experiments have shown that organic molecules can form under prebiotic conditions . However, the transition from simple molecules to complex, self-replicating systems is not yet fully understood. The Drake Equation The Drake Equation, formulated by Dr. Frank Drake in 1961, is a probabilistic formula used to estimate the number of active, communicative extra-terrestrial civilizations in the Milky Way galaxy. The equation multiplies several factors, including: The rate of star formation , The fraction of stars with planetary systems, The number of planets per star that can support life, The fraction of planets where life actually appears, The fraction of life that evolves to intelligent lifeforms, The fraction of civilizations that develop detectable technology, And the length of time such civilizations release detectable signals into space. While the Drake Equation provides a framework for thinking about the probability of extra-terrestrial life, each parameter remains highly uncertain, leading to a wide range of possible values. Nonetheless, it underscores the vast number of potentially habitable planets and the significant probability that some might harbor life. Part III: The Propensity of Life on Earth Versus the Chances in an Almost Infinite Universe “Therefore, for the sake of all of us, let’s abandon our useless, endless bickering and unite behind the real task that awaits us—to survive—to learn—to expand—to enter into a new level of knowledge. Let us strive to inherit the Universe that is waiting for us; doing so alone, if we must, or in company with others—if they are there.” -- Isaac Asimov Earth is the only known planet to host life, a fact that stands in stark contrast to the almost infinite number of potentially habitable systems in the universe. This section examines the factors that might explain this discrepancy and explores the implications for our understanding of life in the cosmos. The Unique Conditions of Earth Earth's ability to support life results from a confluence of factors that might be rare or unique: Planetary Size and Composition: Earth is large enough to retain an atmosphere but not so massive that its gravity creates a hostile environment. Magnetic Field: Earth's magnetic field protects the planet from harmful solar and cosmic radiation, which could otherwise strip away the atmosphere and harm living organisms. Plate Tectonics: The movement of tectonic plates plays a vital role in recycling carbon and other essential elements, maintaining a stable climate over geological timescales. Stable Climate: Earth has experienced relatively stable climatic conditions for billions of years , allowing life to evolve and diversify. Large Moon: Earth’s large moon stabilizes the planet’s axial tilt , which helps to moderate climate variations and create a more stable environment for life. The Search for Extraterrestrial Life The search for extraterrestrial life encompasses several approaches: Astrobiology: This interdisciplinary field studies the origins, evolution, distribution, and future of life in the universe. Astrobiologists examine extreme environments on Earth to understand how life might survive elsewhere. Exoplanet Exploration: Missions like Kepler and the upcoming James Webb Space Telescope aim to identify and characterize potentially habitable exoplanets. SETI (Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence): SETI projects use radio telescopes to listen for signals from advanced civilizations. Despite decades of effort, no definitive signals have been detected. Solar System Exploration: Missions to Mars, Europa, Enceladus, and other bodies in our solar system seek signs of past or present life, focusing on subsurface oceans and other environments that might harbor life. Side Note: Success and Failure of Discovery "We cannot enter into alliances until we are acquainted with the designs of our neighbors." -- Sun Tzu The Implications of Non-Detection The failure to detect extraterrestrial life so far has profound implications: The Anthropic Principle: This principle suggests that we observe the universe in a way that supports our existence because if the universe were different, we wouldn't be here to observe it. This could imply that Earth's conditions are extraordinarily fine-tuned for life. Biological Isolation: It is possible that life is common but remains biologically isolated, meaning that each instance of life is unlikely to contact others due to vast distances and different evolutionary paths. Technological and Evolutionary Constraints: Advanced civilizations might be exceedingly rare due to the high likelihood of self-destruction or other constraints, preventing long-term survival and communication. The Impact of Extremophiles On Our Understanding : The discovery of extremophiles—organisms that thrive in extreme environments—on Earth has expanded our understanding of the potential for life elsewhere. Extremophiles exist in conditions once thought too harsh for life, such as deep-sea hydrothermal vents , acidic hot springs , and even the frozen deserts of Antarctica. These findings suggest that life could potentially exist in a variety of extraterrestrial environments, increasing the chances that life might be more widespread than previously believed. Part IV: Philosophical Considerations: The Rarity and Significance of Life “The meaning of life is whatever you ascribe it to be. Being alive is the meaning.” ― Joseph Campbell The scientific exploration of life's rarity and the search for extraterrestrial existence are deeply intertwined with philosophical questions. These considerations offer a broader perspective on the significance of life and our place in the universe. The Meaning of Life's Rarity The apparent rarity of life in the universe can be viewed through various philosophical lenses. One perspective is existentialism, which emphasizes the individual's experience and the meaning we create in our lives. From an existentialist viewpoint, the rarity of life underscores the preciousness and uniqueness of our existence, urging us to find meaning and purpose in a seemingly indifferent universe. Conversely, the notion of cosmic pluralism —the belief that life is widespread throughout the universe—challenges our anthropocentric view. If life is common, it suggests that Earth and its inhabitants are not unique but part of a vast tapestry of living systems. This perspective can inspire a sense of humility and interconnectedness with the broader cosmos. The Ethical Implications of Life's Search The search for extraterrestrial life also raises ethical questions... If we discover extraterrestrial life, how should we interact with it? The principles of planetary protection, which aim to prevent biological contamination of other worlds, reflect our responsibility to preserve and respect potential extraterrestrial ecosystems. Should we be inclusive? Should we isolate ourselves under moral grounds? Should we lean towards pacifism , or choose militarism? These ethical considerations highlight the need for a careful and respectful approach to space exploration. Furthermore, the search for life beyond Earth prompts reflections on our stewardship of our own planet. The realization that life might be rare or even unique in the universe can reinforce the imperative to protect and sustain the biosphere we inhabit. It emphasizes the interconnectedness of all life and the moral duty to preserve the delicate balance that supports it. The Role of Curiosity and Wonder The quest to understand life's origin and its distribution in the universe is driven by fundamental human curiosity and a sense of wonder. This pursuit is not merely a scientific endeavor but also a profound exploration of our place in the cosmos. It reflects our innate desire to seek knowledge, expand our horizons, and comprehend the mysteries of existence. Conclusion The themes explored in this article highlight the profound questions surrounding the origin, rarity, and detection of life in the universe. The ratio of life-sustaining conditions among the stars, the propensity of life versus the perceived nothingness, and the unique circumstances of life on Earth; They all point to a complex and nuanced reality. As our scientific understanding and technological capabilities advance, we may one day unravel the mysteries of life's place in the cosmos. Until then, the search for extraterrestrial life remains one of humanity's most profound and compelling quests, pushing the boundaries of our knowledge and imagination. In reflecting on the vastness of the universe and the uniqueness of life on Earth, we are reminded of the delicate balance that sustains us and the profound questions that continue to drive our exploration and understanding of the cosmos. We should, however, handle this responsibly... You only think you know what you are doing. You would bring the stars themselves crashing down in your mad lust for Empires in the stars. - - The Exquivan Race, Star Control 3