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  • The Humane Origins of Corruption -- Graham Cray Character Analysis

    (Background music) (Philosocom's Subcategory on Suikoden Content) (Villainy/Anti-Villainy Directory) (Philosocom's Hidden Logic Systems Directory) (Philosocom's Subcategory on Military and Combat) (Corruption Directory) Summary by Mr. Roland Leblanc Everything can be used as a lesson to learn from; for example, this article is about video game Suikoden IV and the people we encounter within this game… Mr. Tomasio Rubinshtein has managed to use such a support as a videogame in order to let us become aware of the interconnectedness of us all human beings; this is a markable talent that is appreciated… It shows us that anything can be used as a tool to get us to be more aware of our duty as a human being to be united with one another. The example of this character Graham Cray is a good example of people that could have been helped and rescued if the global awareness of all others would have been better! In essence, Graham Cray's tragic story serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of societal indifference and the importance of cultivating empathy, understanding, and compassion in our interaction s with others.’ Introduction And Moral Notes Some people, due to their obscure and difficult-to-understand origins of corruption, may never find themselves understood properly by a humanity defined by conformity and uniformity. In their loneliness, they see reality differently than you do. You may see such people and characters as pitiful, or as inhumane monsters, or even as fakers, even when they are brutally honest... In humanity's lack of strength within them to understand complex people and characters, these figures will always appear illogical, mad or insane. Such figures can be seen both in fiction and in real life. Some people can even be dismissed as cartoonish as a result, be dismissed as people who make up things just for an intention you merely think they are advocating for. However, the more you dismiss and forsake your own ability and faith to understand them, the more you deem them to lurk in the dark , and, should they give in to that darkness, will become evil and malicious , develop personality disorders such as narcissism, and so on... Introduction Note I: The Essence of Ignorance's Redemption Your ignorance is more deadly than you think, and your hubris has the unseen potential to grow your children , grow a loved one, and even a promising intellect, into a ruthless, evil being. Please, always question what you merely think exists in the world beyond your mind. Otherwise, you might summon misfortune upon you, in the form of those who you may hold dear to your heart. You might see the very complex people and characters as the unfortunate ones. However... the more such obscure beings are rejected, the more they see, think and feel differently from the societal matrix we all have to swim in... With rejections you might find yourself accidently turning your child into a tyrant, into a criminal, or into an escapist . Always, always have faith in your heart, therefore, or your years of nurturing and caring for others, will fail you, and bring you more grief than happiness. Introduction Note II: Ode to Humanity There will always be loneliness in being upstanding moralists, and there will always be loneliness in a moralist turned corrupt by the tyranny of circumstance, which he or she can never control completely... Please, accept this peacefully... Accept this with intellectual humility. Please, never demonize anyone. For even within the most cruel of psychopaths , there are very, very humane origins. Often, it is these very upstanding virtues which , in one bad turn of events, break even the most noble of moral paragons. Without the ability to foster the determination within us to understand more deeply, those who are dear to us may feel forsaken without you even knowing. The more you're convinced you understand someone, the likelier you will render them unseen beyond the prison of your own vision . Please, never forget that other people perceive reality differently than you. The more unique they are, the more they understand reality in their own unique way. Always try to understand this, not only in the name of justice, but also in the name of love. Otherwise, in your limited vision, you already made yourself lonelier without your awareness... Introduction Note III: How to Understand the Obscure of Figures To understand people, you should see yourself in them . That is the most basic, simple way of relating to anyone. Their pains, their struggles, their cries, their hopes and their dreams... That is how you can show sympathy, if not empathy, to even the most rejected and esoteric of folk you may talk to or read about in books or in movies. It is, simply put, the humane way to understand many, many dimensions of obscurity. When developing an understanding, try judge less. Don't even lambast. Study the other person or character. Vision yourself in his or her shoes. For in the end, there is much humanity even in the most eccentric of masterpieces, and the most eccentric of humans. And even in tales of aliens and monsters and mechanical beings, one could see the human in them. The more you see humanity in anything human made, the more you can grow to appreciate the world around you, and the obscure worlds of discarded media. Try to understand yourself in them. Otherwise, you would remain ignorant and stagnant in your exploration of the world around you. Remember, you do not only use your eyes to see the world, you also use your mind. To quote Dr. S. K. Pachauri: What the mind cannot conceive, it cannot achieve. Test Yourself! And now, let yourself put these teachings into the test, in the form of understanding a most, most hidden shadowy villain... Graham Cray, of the Cray Trading Company. A man who gave in to his corrupt worldviews , and already understands he will never, ever have a way back from his own obscurity, no matter how much he may be honest about himself. He thus see no reason to hold back on his mad quest for power and control... When it comes to a battle of wills, I have no doubt that mine shall prevail against yours! Part II: The Merchant of Death's Origins As people are rightly busy in their own lives, making end's meet or working with an apprentice's passion , many people whom they think they know, deviate. Deviate away from the very society that is supposed to host them within its ranks. The very society that should embrace such people, or else such people will either grow lonely, or horribly, horribly corrupt. One of these horribly corrupt characters in the mysterious, aloof and intimidating character, Graham Cray, from the world of Suikoden IV. Graham Cray looks behaves and acts like a zombie would. He is a former shell of the great man he once was. As the time went by, giving demonstration to what I call the Time Lapse Fallacy, Cray's former greatness remains but a very distant memory... The Cursed Incident The most early thing we know of him is that he used to be part of an amoral nation known as the Scarlet Moon Empire. There he was an military officer and the apprentice of a well-respected strategist, Elenor Silverberg , who also worked for the Scarlet Moon Imperial Army. Cray had an unnamed son , whose death changed his father forever... During a Scarlet Moon raid on a small enemy border village, the unnamed son, in his distress, decimated the entire place with an unknown, parasitic curse, sacrificing himself, and saving his father in the process... The Scarlet Moon government saw no reason to believe a mere child would have the powers to decimate an entire village, with enemy residents, along with members of its own army. Therefore, Cray turned into the scapegoat of that massacre, and all blame went on him. As punishment for a crime he did not commit, while showing no remorse for the death of his only child , the now-promising officer's future has been taken away from him. Furthermore, his master was also stripped of her ranks. Finally, that cursed, very destructive magic has now found itself a new host to devour... himself. No longer being affiliated with the Scarlet Moon, he headed away to the very nation he was attacking... The Kooluk Empire. The Quest for Sanity Cray, upon finding no way to escape the cursed parasite rune that found itself on his arm, still refused to succumb to its madness. After all, it is the very same parasite that destroyed that village, killed his son, and changed his life's trajectory forever... He replaced his biological arm with a mechanical one, deeming him a cyborg, or a half-man, half-machine. He is now, technically, a disabled , forsaken war veteran. A lot of war veterans may suffer much in solitude from the anguish of their past. Often, moving on from such events is extremely difficult. Cray is seen as a very unrelenting man. It often requires much determination to overcome such events, such as the death of one's child or children. In general, mental survival after traumatic lives is something capable of compromising people for the rest of their lives. Overcoming the anguish and misery is extremely hard to do alone. Part III: Cray and Elenor's Chosen Paths Cray: Crime Lord To survive financially and resume with his arts of strategy, Cray turned into a criminal mastermind , forming the dubious organization, the Cray Trading Company. It is a mysterious network of information gathering and the trading of arms. Sometimes no one can help you, so you just have to help yourself survive in this world. You don't have to resort to crime just to form an alternative framework for yourself and other disillusioned individuals. The fact that Cray fell to crime, indicates the fact he forever accepted his destiny as a rogue shadowy individual, not even desiring to be understood by the world around him. The failure of the world to relate to Cray's misfortune and traumas, only enabled his heart to go dark forever. Such people who, despite what really happened in their lives, may become like that without being shown any scrap of empathy or sympathy. From this we can conclude that Cray's life might've went different if people had the strength within them to see Cray for the grieving, very unlucky man that he is. The foundation of the corrupt Cray Trading Company can therefore be attributed to the failures of societies, friends and lovers to embrace a man who has fallen from grace, not much because of himself, but because of events with no decisive narrative. Always consider the fact people prefer to move on and enjoy their lives, than to delve on past events. This shows the weakness in the hearts of many. Should the disillusioned man not have the strength within him to retain his heart, he will very likely resort to crime. The Merchant of Death's Henchmen Once an officer to a national army, he is now in charge of a very shadowy network of merchants, assassins, spies and ninjas , yielding him profit in many fronts. The company relished in hunting mermaids. These beautiful, innocent aquatic humanoids would be trapped and sold. One of the company's fronts were the Orark Maritime Trade. The rest of the fronts remain obscure. Hiring these dubious henchmen and henchwomen only means Cray deemed it fit to give up on being a legitimate businessman . Also, it means he gave up even more on trying to be embraced by either the Scarlet Moon or the Kooluk Empire. Elenor: Hermit Sage His former master, Elenor never made much contact with him ever since the incident. Old and forsaken herself, she decided to retire as a hermit , forsaking Cray even more by replacing him with a new apprentice, Agnes . Elenor couldn't care less about riches and wealth. Her Hermitage Island is filled with many beasts and other eccentric folk such as a mysterious beast man and an abandoned archer. Elenor, compared to Cray, has no desire to succumb to any temptation for power. She only subjugated Agnes to teach her the art of strategy, nothing more. Possibly, to cope with her life's misfortune since that village incident, she succumbs to drinking away her sorrows. Agnes acts not only as her apprentice but also as her bodyguard. She is quite the fanatic, given her master's ascetic choices. Elenor and Agnes later on partake in high-ranking positions against two factions: The Kooluk Empire, and her former apprentice, Cray. Elenor and Cray seem to resent each other. Melancholically enjoying her suffering, Cray would just keep on hiding his motives, even when he is ultimately defeated.... When he can finally explain himself to a person who happens to know him more than anyone else, he refuses. His relentlessness to not be understood prevented him any chance of salvation. Fostering a deep connection with her only apprentice, one could say Agnes saved Elenor from going into a path of malice like Cray did. Part IV: The Empire of Slow Decline Providing refuge to Cray, the Kooluk government covered up this strange incident, leading many to believe it were the Kooluks who destroyed their very own unnamed village. Ironically, Cray lived there with his son , despite being Scarlet Moon citizens... When you serve in militaries, how can one understand your personal pains and discomforts, when the very factions you serve matter more than yourself? How can one understand the logic of militaries and governments when such logic is hidden even from its very own citizens? Serving in such organizations, compels you to lay low. The more you lay low, the less you are understood, and the more the people around you move on with their lives, despite your anguish. They kind of have to move on with their lives to cater for their own basic wants and needs. During the height of his criminal empire, Cray turned into a very close ally of the Kooluks. However, he shared no patriotism for Kooluk. Why would he care about Kooluk given he chose a life of transnational crime? Cray was never liked by Kooluk's most beloved war hero, the illustrious Child of the Sea Dragon, Troy. Troy acts like a samurai, with his own unique code of honor. Not understood himself, he is also gradually rejected from the very empire he served under several wars. Troy falls under depression over time , despite being a promising, dashing young naval officer. He accepts his ultimate defeat in grace, and sinks down with his one remaining ship. His personal assistant is a rough patriot and naval commander named Colton. Colton is an extremely patriotic, elder officer, and belongs to a period where Kooluk was a more respected nation in the eyes of the world. Without giving in to emotion, he stayed loyal until he shown sympathy to his traitor son, Helmut , obliviously telling him that "there is more to this world than Kooluk". After Cray's defeat, they vanish themselves both without a trace. The only other Kooluk commander during Cray's corrupting influence on the empire is a nameless governor who foolishly biases himself towards the evil mastermind and authorizes Cray's highly-advanced technological innovations , whom are used to destroy an enemy island nation and conquer other island nations as well. In his foolishness, the Governor is killed off discreetly by Cray. Cray then takes over for a while, until he is finally defeated by Elenor and the opposition force she decided to join in. Since Cray's humiliating defeat by his former master, The Kooluk Empire slowly devolves into anarchy, and many of its territories are finally seized by Scarlet Moon. Kooluk is no more. Conclusions... There are many complexities of human nature, along with societal factors that can lead to corruption and despair. Here are some of them: The Importance of Understanding and Empathy:  The role of understanding and empathy in preventing the descent into darkness, is crucial. By acknowledging the unique perspectives and struggles of others , we can foster compassion and prevent the isolation that can lead to destructive behavior. The Dangers of Societal Rejection and Neglect:  Societal rejection and neglect can have devastating consequences. When individuals feel misunderstood, abandoned, and unsupported, they may resort to destructive behaviors as a coping mechanism or a means of self-preservation. The Impact of Trauma and Unresolved Grief:  Cray's tale explores the profound impact of trauma, particularly unresolved grief, on an individual's life trajectory. The man's descent into villainy is largely attributed to the unaddressed trauma of his son's death and the following societal rejection he faced ever since. The Limitations of Societal Structures:  Societal structures, particularly within militaries and governments , can be very strict. They may often prioritize institutional goals over the well-being of individual members. This can lead to feelings of isolation, disillusionment, and ultimately, corruption. The Enduring Power of Human Connection:  Despite the prevalent themes of isolation and despair, we should underscore the enduring power of human connection . The relationship between Elenor and Agnes, while unconventional, highlights the importance of mentorship and the potential for redemption through genuine human connection. In essence, Graham Cray's tragic story serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of societal indifference and the importance of cultivating empathy, understanding, and compassion in our interactions with others. Even the most seemingly irredeemable individuals may have been shaped by profound trauma and societal neglect. By extending a hand of understanding and support, we may be able to prevent the descent into darkness. Sometimes... all it takes is someone's heart to contain you...

  • The Button Named X (Poem)

    (Philosocom Writing Directory) (Philosocom's Directory On the Virtual Realm) (Philosocom's Directory on Culture) The Button Named X The computer screen has many buttons, and one of them triggers a special option. One click on it will be enough, to ease even the painful of stuff. There is no need to be mad, for the "misfortune" that you had --- one click away and you'll be on your way for words that may better please your ears. Even the most successful of content creators, need to target a specific demographic. Target your content to the whole of humanity, and you might lose much money, and drive you to less results, ironically. The head demographic of every creator is simple -- those who actually wish to actually read what you have to say, Without tormenting you, for writing things they don't want to hear; Those who want to read -- will, and those who do not -- can go elsewhere, No strings attached. There is no need for a comment of hate, nor have a flame war -- press the X button, and you'll be driven afar. To be frank I must confess, that all of this is not meant just for children, but for adults, AKA, those who know where the X button dwells, and yet, Keep spitting at the nearest well, In hope to depress what they cannot repress. Why should one be quiet, or even shove something to you-know-where-to, When you can just move on , like the grown up man or woman you are? The writer will not cease, after long thoughts about your words, nor obey to your demands. Thus, hate by itself is insufficient, for your comments to make a change, And yet ordering them around is still okay, for some reason, As if it is an effective method. Relax, it's but an article, a story or a poem, And your anger hurts only yourself at best. While the rest -- enjoy, And at times even provide their thoughts -- the ignorance of the x button will only make you unnecessarily suffer. It isn't that your feedback is not justified -- A writer's duty isn't just to be appealing forever for every single person. Since complaints are always of potential (speaking from experience), Deep hatred is thus futile in its effort to make an actual change. Gandhi said -- be the change you want to see in the world -- Remove something from your screen that you'd want to remove in general. No other option is as effective. Move along, hater -- this is the house of the interested, of the truly curious. This isn't censorship -- we don't have a right to harass other citizens. Remember your frustration; aim it to the simple, liberating X button, And find someone else to annoy, that might be weak-spirited enough, To comply to your "authority" . Will you find someone who'll keep their thoughts to themselves, Once you'll tell them to? Highly unlikely, but you can try, I guess..

  • The Drained One -- a Poem

    (September 2023 note: I am no longer handicapped. I explained why in this article ). (Philosocom's Subcategory On Fatigue and Exhaustion) Death, among the living, Death, within the living, Is difficult to see, Difficult to comprehend. Only a Follower of a Drained One can, Understand it better than most. I, the Drained One, Truth be told, Have an illness within me, Non-describable, potentially incurable. A young age, and yet, An old-like body, Difficult to function, Far from the External World. I, a Drained One, Am not sad, nor depressed, Nor beyond, And am far from lonely. I am just, Exhausted, -- my greatest disability. Exhaustion, Far from the comprehension of an average Joe. The Drain follows me whenever I go, Always in the background, awaits to ambush, And leave me partially-paralyzed. Paralysis that blocks many actions. It is not rare, It is like the occasion Of the rising and setting sun. I watch the other ships in the sea, Reach destinations I thought I too am capable, Only to realize, I do not, For I lack the energy, I once thought I had. Moving, speaking, discussing, trying remembering, It is that big. I am content of my life, my craft, Striving for optimism, for it is practical. It is just, That I am drained, By the years-long stress, To be Good, In any of which I do, As I was taught, By my former masters, former guides. I do not resent, nor hate. Am just want, To serve my purpose, To serve those who have the will, And the appreciation. Beyond that, I see no reason. By handicap, By reasons of which I do not fully understand,. I am, thus, the Drained One, Currently, Or, Permanently. Death, among the living, Death, within the living, I am who is in between, And I am alive.

  • How Evil Is Distinct in Humans

    (Philosocom's Directory on Evil) (Background music) The Article Itself I don't know how true it is, but I don't think that animals are evil, as the concept of animal-related evil remains elusive and not absolute . They don't commit acts of malice for the sake of malice, while some humans actually enjoy causing malice and mischief, as with the example of psychopaths and sadists. Psychopaths specifically may cause malice as a means to an end, and would feel no remorse for executing their schemes over the pain of others. That's how the cold-heartedness existent in some humans can cause a great deal of immorality: When the goal necessitates it. However, when succumbing to hedonism , people in general can be very evil, whether they admit it or not, especially if their actions are "justified" by conformity. Even Adolf Eichmann justified his actions by admitting that he was just following orders. But should we use fun or the norms as the justification to commit evil in this world? And yes, when you're having fun while doing evil, you're being evil by the fact that you benefit psychologically from the suffering of others. Follow evil orders, and not only you'll be enabling evil, but supporting it as an accomplice. Evil is often most optimal when done by organizations, and not by sole individuals. Animals are, perhaps, likely to not commit actions for the sake of evil, but for the sake of survival. According to Kaiser Basileus' "Theory of Everything", evil is necessarily done by intent. Whether or not animals are capable of committing evil for the purpose of malice is not completely known. People, on the other hand, can be the exact opposite, especially if their actions are supported and approved, which is an encouragement. This is the potential of evil that can be the product of the human social nature, in a system that won't necessarily see beyond the treatment of carrot and stick. Corruption , either, might not exist within the intentions of an animal. If they commit something bad, they do not necessarily do so for the sake of being bad, but for either following their socially-unaccepted instincts, or for not being disciplined enough. It's not for the sake of being corrupt and dysfunctional. An untrained dog may cause much harm to your house, but dogs are good hearted by nature. It's written in their genes, to be good. But it doesn't mean they can't commit small-time bad actions unintentionally. The same could be with many pets. Animals may be dysfunctional not because of ill-intent but because they are pretty much enslaved to their instincts, as instincts " drive almost all behavior in the animal kingdom ". Arguably, only the smartest species can override their instincts and learned behavior. So, if an animal may do something, whether good or evil by human standards, it's not usually done by moral intent, but by instinct. Cats, for example, don't ruin sofas for the sake of destruction, but for the sake of expressing their instincts. Thus, even if their deeds are bad, animals surely don't do so for the sake of being evil, and so the intention at hand should be understood. People, on the other hand, even when they are aware of the norms and have learned the local morality of good and bad, can nonetheless be evil. They are likely to be so even more than animals, thanks to people's ability to cooperate and create large-scale organizations. And as we know, collaborations, not inner-organizational competitions, increase productivity . We as humanity are, after all, the causers of many atrocities, both for animals and towards our own kind. From torturing our fellow beings to genocides, our moral sins as a race are large and ever expanding. Animals are not as evil as we are for the sole reason of not being able to cause as many deaths as we did. They just don't have the power to do it. And indeed one of our many achievements as humanity is that we have built a world where in many parts of it, the precursor law of the fittest surviving the most, is non-existent. That's because there are governments that are willing to raise the tax percentage for the sake of providing welfare to the more unfortunate. This is to show that the law of the survival of the fittest, originally coined by philosopher Herbert Spencer , is not as dominant in human society as in the animal kingdom. Thus, not necessarily a proper justification for humans as for animals, as animals in the wilderness don't have these large scale organizations capable of providing welfare to their own members. Summary What differs us from animals is our higher potential to act much more maliciously without proper moral justification, and conformity itself isn't a proper justification for that. Instead, conformity is a reason, a cause for large-scale maximization of pain and suffering for the sake of some kind of profit (as even fun can be considered, in this case, "profit"). Because the existence of a phenomenon doesn't mean that it should be continued in one's actions, as presented in Eichmann's sentence. Nazi Germany itself was built on extreme conformity, and nowadays it is considered one of the most evil political entities to have ever existed. Such an entity with the equivalent degree of evil in the animal kingdom, is unlikely to have ever existed.

  • Incels: Why Sexuality is Insufficient (Short Article)

    (Background music) My opinion on incels is that masculinity is more than just getting laid or having sexual interactions. Therefore, incels can still be masculine without having their sexual ambitions fulfilled. Of course, I am referring to men, as I do not think I have anything of value to offer specifically to female incels , which I have heard are much rarer. Even if it may not seem like it, being masculine and life in general consist of more than just getting laid or losing one's virginity. Those who claim that the only point of life is sexual reproduction ignore the other potentials that life contains, along with the potentials of those who remain celibate, whether voluntarily or involuntarily. You can do many things in life and still remain celibate, and as such, be a successful, contributing member of society. I do not think masturbation deserves the shame it gets from a normative point of view. Masturbation is basically autonomous sex. It is a far better option than forcing yourself on someone and getting imprisoned, or going to sexual services, which is a waste of money ( and abuse of people ). There should be no shame in pleasuring oneself, because there is nothing to be ashamed of in this harmless act. Even those who are in relationships may do it. Getting laid does not make you better than those who do not get laid. People such as Isaac Newton, for example, died as virgins. Ironically, some geniuses throughout history died as virgins . That includes German philosopher, Immanuel Kant. It would therefore be dumb to devalue their contribution to humanity by cherry-picking the fact that they are virgins. Porn, however, is best to be avoided, or at least consumed in moderation, as it can lead to addiction. While it does not necessarily addict everyone, it is still logical to assume that it could lead to an addiction that one could regret later in life, or during the period of addiction, itself. In addition, it could also lead to an unrealistic perspective of reality, which could ruin potential romantic and sexual relationships. The fact that someone is an incel is not sufficient to commit a crime as a result of sexual frustration. It does not make sense to commit a mass shooting just because you failed at getting laid. There are therapists, psychologists, and other counselors who can help with this frustration. Of course, masturbation can also help to reduce frustration significantly. There is also sexual surrogacy. To all incels who read this: You are not a loser just because you don't have sex. You are not worthless or a failure by that fact alone; and you are not necessarily a failure, that you're alone in life on that degree. Sex is just one aspect of life, and it is not even a requirement for reproduction, as there are other ways, such as sperm donation and IVF technology . Do not be afraid of the possibility of masturbation. This activity, too, can relieve you of the misery caused by intense desire. Sexuality can be celebrated even without a partner nor a passing f*ck-buddy.

  • How to Become a More Logical Being (By Mr. Ogbule Chibuzo Isaac)

    (Philosocom's O. C. Isaac's Articles) (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) Article Synopsis by Mr. J. Igwe and Co. Mr. Ogbule Chibuzo Isaac's article, "How to Become a More Logical Being," provides a comprehensive guide on developing logical thinking and critical reasoning skills. The article is well-structured, starting with a clear definition of a logical being and progressively delving into the methods to develop logical thinking. Mr. Isaac provides a detailed breakdown of critical thinking elements, such as questioning, evidence-based reasoning, analysis, skepticism, logical reasoning, objectivity, creativity, balancing emotions, decision-making, and communication. The article also includes practical advice, such as engaging in debates, reading philosophical works, and practicing logical puzzles. It acknowledges the role of emotions in decision-making and advocates for a balance between rational analysis and emotional responses. The integration of philosophical concepts and encouraging readers to read philosophical works, adds depth to the article. The language used is clear and accessible, making complex ideas understandable for a broad audience. The tone is encouraging and supportive, motivating readers to pursue logical thinking without feeling overwhelmed or discouraged. In conclusion, Mr. Ogbule Chibuzo Isaac's article is a valuable resource for anyone looking to enhance their logical thinking and critical reasoning skills. (Background music) Introduction In a world increasingly driven by information and rapid decision-making, the ability to think logically and critically has never been more crucial. Becoming a more logical being is not just about mastering a set of intellectual tools but also about adopting a mindset that prioritizes clarity, precision, and sound reasoning. Logical thinking equips individuals to navigate the complexities of modern life, enabling them to solve problems effectively, make informed decisions, and engage in meaningful discussions. This article provides a comprehensive guide to developing logical thinking and critical reasoning skills, offering practical strategies that can be integrated into everyday life. By committing to this journey, you can enhance both your personal and professional life, gaining the confidence to approach challenges with a clear, rational perspective. What Is a Logical Being? A logical being is a person who consistently applies logical thinking and reasoning in their thoughts, actions, and decision-making processes. Such an individual tends to prioritize rationality, evidence-based thinking , and sound argumentation in their approach to various aspects of life. Being a logical being involves cultivating a mindset that values logic and critical thinking as essential tools for problem-solving, understanding the world, and making informed choices. It's a commitment to reducing biases, avoiding fallacious reasoning, and continuously improving one's ability to think logically. How To Become More logical 1. Engage in Critical Thinking Critical thinking is the cornerstone of logical reasoning. It involves not just processing information but actively engaging with it—analyzing, questioning, and synthesizing to make well-informed judgments. Developing this skill requires a conscious effort to approach problems and situations with an open, inquisitive mind, challenging assumptions, and seeking out evidence. Critical thinking is a cognitive skill and mindset that involves actively and objectively analyzing, evaluating, and synthesizing information and arguments to make reasoned judgments and decisions. Key Elements of Critical Thinking Questioning: Critical thinkers are naturally curious and constantly ask questions to gain a deeper understanding of any topic or situation. They challenge assumptions, probe motives, and seek clarity. For instance, in a business setting, rather than accepting a proposal at face value, a critical thinker might ask, "What evidence supports this strategy?" or "Are there alternative solutions that have been overlooked?" (Mr. Rubinshtein's Note: It may be reasonable, at least in philosophy, to question everything in the name of the truth. That includes the very basic elements such as our social nature ). Evidence-Based Reasoning: Logical beings rely heavily on evidence and data to support their judgments. This means that their conclusions are grounded in facts and empirical data rather than personal opinions or emotional responses. For example, in scientific research, a logical thinker would base their conclusions on rigorous experimentation and data analysis rather than intuition or anecdotal evidence. (Mr. Rubinshtein's note: Philosophy isn't about having opinions but having theories that attempt to be in correlation with reality. The philosopher is a formulator of ideas. We may hide our truths under the facade of opinions so we wouldn't hurt people's feelings ). Analysis: Breaking down complex problems into smaller, more manageable components is essential for logical reasoning. This process allows critical thinkers to understand each part of a problem or argument and how they relate to the whole. In a legal case, for example, a lawyer might deconstruct the opposing argument to identify weaknesses or contradictions that can be challenged in court. Skepticism: They maintain a healthy skepticism , being open to new information but also requiring sufficient evidence before accepting claims. Skepticism isn't about doubting everything; it's about demanding clear, convincing evidence before accepting something as true. In the context of media consumption, for instance, a skeptic might question the validity of a news source , seeking out corroborating evidence before accepting a headline as fact. (Mr. Rubinshtein's note: It is imperative that we learn to respect that of which we do not understand or fully understand so we would not delude ourselves by over or underestimating the subjects or issues we're ignorant in). Logical reasoning: They use logic to assess the validity and soundness of arguments. This includes recognizing logical fallacies and flaws in reasoning. Recognizing logical fallacies— such as ad hominem attacks or false dilemmas—is a key part of this process. For instance, in a debate about climate change , a logical reasoner would focus on the scientific evidence rather than being swayed by emotional appeals or misinformation. Objectivity : Critical thinkers strive to be objective and impartial, putting personal biases and emotions aside when evaluating information. This means looking at all sides of an issue fairly and considering opposing viewpoints. For example, in a workplace conflict, an objective mediator would listen to all parties involved without taking sides, focusing on the facts to resolve the issue. Creativity: While logic and creativity might seem at odds, they often complement each other. Creative thinking allows for the generation of novel solutions and perspectives, which can then be evaluated through logical reasoning. In problem-solving scenarios, such as developing a new product, creativity might lead to an innovative idea , while logic ensures that the idea is feasible and effective. Balancing emotions: While reason is essential, critical thinkers acknowledge that emotions play a role in decision-making . They strive to balance emotional responses with rational analysis. Logical thinkers recognize the influence of emotions but ensure that their decisions are ultimately grounded in reason. For instance, when making an investment decision, a logical thinker would acknowledge their excitement about a potential high return, but would also carefully evaluate the risks involved. Decision-making: Critical thinking guides decision-making processes, ensuring that choices are well-informed and based on rational analysis. In everyday life, this might mean choosing a career path not just based on passion but also on practical considerations like job market demand and personal strengths. Communication: The ability to clearly and effectively communicate one’s thoughts and reasoning is a crucial component of logical thinking. This skill is essential for persuading others, defending one’s ideas, and contributing to discussions in a meaningful way. A logical thinker can articulate complex ideas in a way that is accessible and convincing, whether in a formal presentation or a casual conversation. (Mr. Rubinshtein's tip: The secret to my own concise writing is learning how to communicate like a character called Dr. Eggman . That's how I intend making philosophy more relevant ). 2. Engage in Debates and Discussions Debating and engaging in discussions with others, especially those who hold different viewpoints, is a powerful way to sharpen your logical thinking skills. These interactions force you to confront alternative perspectives, refine your arguments, and think on your feet . They also expose you to different ways of thinking, broadening your understanding of various issues. Why Debates and Discussions Matter: Exposure to Different Perspectives: Engaging in debates allows you to see issues from multiple angles. For example, discussing political ideologies with someone who holds opposing views can challenge your own assumptions and lead to a more nuanced understanding of the topic. Refining Your Arguments: In a debate, you must defend your position against counterarguments, which requires you to think critically about your stance and the evidence supporting it. This process helps you to strengthen your arguments and identify any weaknesses in your reasoning. Improving Communication Skills: Debating hones your ability to communicate your thoughts clearly and persuasively. Whether in a formal debate setting or a casual discussion, articulating your ideas effectively is crucial for influencing others and making your case. Learning to Handle Criticism: Debates often involve receiving feedback or criticism, which can be valuable for improving your logical thinking skills. Constructive criticism helps you to recognize flaws in your reasoning and learn from them, ultimately leading to more robust arguments in the future. 3. Practice Logical Puzzles and Exercises Practicing logical puzzles and exercises is a practical way to improve your logical thinking skills. These activities challenge your brain to think critically and solve problems creatively. They also provide a fun and engaging way to apply the principles of logic in a controlled environment. Types of Logical Exercises: Puzzles and Riddles: Engaging in puzzles such as Sudoku, crossword puzzles, or brainteasers can enhance your logical thinking abilities by requiring you to recognize patterns, make connections, and solve problems systematically. Logic Games: Games like chess, Go, or strategy-based video games can help develop your ability to think several steps ahead , consider multiple outcomes, and make decisions based on logic and strategy rather than impulse. Mathematical Problems: Solving math problems, particularly those that involve algebra, geometry, or calculus, can sharpen your logical reasoning skills. Math requires precise, step-by-step reasoning, making it an excellent exercise for developing logical thinking. Online Logical Exercises: There are numerous online platforms offering a variety of logical exercises, from simple puzzles to complex problem-solving scenarios. These exercises can be tailored to different skill levels, allowing you to gradually increase the difficulty as your skills improve. 4. Read Philosophical Works Philosophy, as a discipline, is deeply rooted in logical reasoning. Reading philosophical works not only deepens your understanding of logic but also exposes you to various schools of thought, ethical considerations, and metaphysical questions. Philosophical texts often present complex ideas and arguments that require careful analysis and reflection, m aking them excellent resources for developing logical thinking. Recommended Philosophical Texts: "The Republic" by Plato: This foundational text explores justice, morality, and the ideal society through dialogues that challenge the reader to think critically about ethics and governance. "Critique of Pure Reason" by Immanuel Kant: Kant’s work delves into the nature of human understanding, presenting intricate arguments about the limits and capabilities of reason. "Meditations" by Marcus Aurelius: A more accessible text, "Meditations" offers reflections on life, ethics, and personal growth, encouraging readers to think deeply about their own beliefs and values. "The Logic of Scientific Discovery" by Karl Popper: This text is essential for understanding the philosophy of science and the role of falsifiability in scientific inquiry, offering insights into how logical reasoning applies to empirical research. "Nicomachean Ethics" by Aristotle: Aristotle’s exploration of ethics and the good life provides a rich source of logical analysis applied to moral philosophy, challenging readers to consider the principles that should guide human behavior. Benefits of Being a Logical Being The benefits of becoming a logical being extend beyond making better decisions or solving problems more effectively. Logical thinking enhances your ability to navigate the complexities of modern life, allowing you to engage with information critically, avoid being misled by false claims , and contribute meaningfully to discussions on a wide range of topics. By honing your logical reasoning skills, you can improve both your personal and professional life, making informed choices that align with your values and goals. Moreover, logical thinking fosters intellectual humility, as it requires you to acknowledge the limitations of your knowledge and remain open to new evidence and perspectives. This mindset encourages continuous learning and growth, leading to a more nuanced and well-rounded understanding of the world. Conclusions Becoming a more logical being is a lifelong journey that involves cultivating critical thinking skills, engaging in thoughtful debates, practicing logical exercises, and exploring philosophical ideas. This process not only improves your decision-making abilities but also empowers you to approach challenges with a clear, rational perspective. In a world where irrationality and bias can easily cloud judgment , the ability to think logically is an invaluable asset. By committing to this path, you can unlock the full potential of your mind , making more informed, reasoned decisions and contributing to the betterment of society. Logical thinking is not just a skill but a way of life that offers countless benefits in both personal and professional contexts. Whether you are navigating complex problems, making important decisions, or simply engaging in everyday conversations, the principles of logic can guide you toward clarity, precision, and sound reasoning. Embrace the journey of becoming a more logical being, and you will find that it opens up new avenues of understanding, creativity, and personal growth. (Mr. Rubinshtein's note: Rationality is not static . It can change over the course of life and that depends on how biased the brain is at a given moment. However, studying logic can greatly help you maintain a fair level of rationality, beneficial for you to seize the benefit of being logical).

  • Childhood's Absent Element

    (Philosocom Directory On Children) (Philosocom's Subcategory Directory on Freedom) (Background music) The greatest missing element as a child is the fact you lack physical freedom... However.. what if we always lack freedom? Whether or not your childhood was a happy one , one thing is almost completely certain: almost no child is as free as an adult. However, even as an adult. You can't be entirely by yourself, as more often than not you need to make a living. Much of your life is dictated by your parents or guardian, and you can't pick who will be in your life and who won't, at least in most cases. Sometimes you're so much of a mad genius that you disable yourself on purpose, and then you see reality in a far, far more open way from the backseat. Then, you can have a greater mental creativity the average adult will never have. Because of that, even if one's childhood was fun overall, it would never have the freedom that a functioning adult can have in many areas of life. And even then... what's so fun about being the average adult, when that fun often involves escapism from reality? If given a choice to return to the past , to your childhood, as your child self, would you do it? You might skip over many commitments you now have as an adult, but what is likely is that you won't have the physical freedom as an independent individual and as a citizen. However, I still can't help but admit that mental freedom is the superior variant. After all, with one's mental freedom, they have a greater choice of perception , in a world that encourages us to be anti-intellectual. Although I had a very enjoyable childhood, with mainly heroic amnesia , I still wouldn't take the chance to be a kid again. It isn't necessarily because I hated being a child, but because I didn't have the mental freedom I have today as an adult. Yes, most people care for physical freedom, especially as adults. Yet all I enjoyed doing in my life is to forsake humanity so I could focus on my passionate work like I wanted, as my late master's sole successor. I guess that, in a way, I always did mainly what I wanted after I retired from the only traditional job I had, where I found myself being distracted by the connections between Sisyphus and Jason Voorhees . It can be harsh to be a child because many of your life is in the hands of someone else, which means that you don't have the liberty of doing many things you would otherwise could've done. Parents can act as either tyrants or forget important knowledge about you , even when you grow up. Do you want this popsicle? As long as your parent or guardian denies it, you won't get this treat. Unique people, like me, even as children, would avoid the popsicle independently because they don't see reason to waste their time on it. The same is with everything financial that you could've otherwise have purchased if you were an adult. Even as a joyful child, there may still be ongoing conflict between parents/guardians and children about activities they want to do. There are always conflicts with people regardless of age. That's why the philosopher's journey is often solitary irrespective of age. Of course, even as an adult, you can't always do what you want, but at least you can do so much more than when there is a superior permitting and denying you things. Well? I guess there are always superior folk who are compelled to tell you what to do, regardless of age, sometimes to the extent of coercive control. At times, they even demand you to do things you wish to avoid, such as some rituals if you come from a religious background , or visiting other people if they want you to be more social. Learning the Pax Ethica as a child, I rapidly encouraged myself to let go of a fake world, become increasingly avoidant of people, and slowly but surely do my own things with increased apathy towards this world, I only interact with when I deem it fit... Which is rarely. Whether or not you had what you wanted in life, much of the choices were not made by you, but by those who were legally responsible for your actions until a certain age. Observing the misdeeds of others, and of yourself, might grow you to be extremely anti-social , in a world where spreading love is not normal, or even where being yourself is not normal. Observe as no one cares for your misery, and then you begin to ponder: Why would I care for other folk's misery? If no one cares about my justice, and if no one cares about love, then why should I bother with both values? That's indeed the problem when you have an ego. Yet, some degree of ego is still necessary... Thus, observe as you are confined and limited either way, in a world that hardly cares for morality, or humanity. A world the might deem you the arrogant one , while in your eyes, they are the arrogant. Observe how the western world encourages you to give up on your light , even though the light within you is the very truth that can set you free from much, much suffering. Because of that, I find it quite ironic to see some people wishing to be kids again.. When freedom is always, always an illusion.... I am well aware that being an adult has many hardships of its own, especially on the financial part, but at least adults have a basic human right that children mostly don't have -- the freedom of choice. And even so.. given that most adults suffer from brain-rot, by not being allowed to work on what truly makes them passionate , I can't help but understand I, a retired hermit sage , am weirdly fortunate... rather than "unfortunate"? Regardless of the impression you might have on my position in the matter, the limitations children usually have are reasonable... They don't have the experience, the self-discipline, and the maturity to function like many adults can. In an alternative universe, where children are to work, drive public transportation , and so on... would that world foster lives truly well-lived? As you can tell, this is a very dumb role, because it is not the "natural" place of kids to be in. They can't drive cars, let alone pilot airplanes or be in any kind of position that requires a competent and/or professionalized adult. However, when you are an auto-didact, and thus can master per your passion, you can be a professional in your own way.. Being a master in your own way is always child-like... Because of that, self-taught masters are often alone, and appreciated mainly by those who deem it fitting to oppose, or at least lambast , societal conventions. In some sense, being a child is like being in a prison of gold -- you might, as a child, live in prosperity and in delight, but you are not free as of the moment, as your prison guards are your parents/guardians, school, the state at times, and so on... And even as a physical traveler, you always have to hide your true self when you venture outside of your own home... Even if you will eventually become less happier as an adult, at least you will have the freedoms you didn't have as a kid... Even though, as a kid, you probably had a greater mental and creative freedom than most adults will ever have... Observe how in either age... Freedom is compromised either way. It is then part of one's recovery from such an insanely-carless world, to accept it as it is, and to keep one's "inner child" in ways that won't corrupt it forever, and in ways that won't turn you from a hero to a villain.. If humanity ever reaches a technological state where we can become kids again by reversing our age (I have no idea if this will happen, just a theory) or travel back in time, there will be a dilemma of values that people will have to face: Either sacrifice their physical freedom for pleasantry. Or... Preserve their freedom and deny themselves the nostalgic joy of being a kid again. I can at least say for myself that I am through with being a child... as I was even when I was an actual child. Even though my childhood was a very happy one, I wouldn't trade the growing mental freedom I have as an adult for it. I, for the most part, enjoy being alone in a world which forces its humanity to cater to corrupt leaders, who mainly care about getting insanely wealthy. I am a self-taught philosophy master. I have taught myself philosophy to cope with heroic amnesia. At this point I philosophize to mentally survive in a world I am so eagerly passionate to rectify from the comfort of hermitages. Kids may want to be adults, adults may want to be kids... Each and every one of us may immensely struggle in something as "basic" as being content to the point of doing absolutely nothing. A person will truly be happy when at last all of his depravities are fulfilled... regardless of age... regardless of anything... As such, discontentment shall forever remain humanity's greatest flaw..

  • Why Is the 1st of April Controversial -- On Pranks and Trickery

    (Philosocom's Subcategory on Manipulation) (Background music) This following article will be a bit special, as it is intended to be a small breather. It can be regarded as a small article instead, as I wish to carry on and write about other subjects. I will dedicate a small article or blog post to this subject because of its global relevancy. The first of April is a special day of the year where it is traditional to fool others. Hence why it is called " April Fools' Day ." The fools might as well be us, the ones being deceived for comedic effect. The reason why people like this day is because of the possibility that they might laugh when we are the butt of the joke. "The butt" simply means being the victim of a trick or a joke. Of course, those prone more to a victim's mentality could, in theory, really struggle with being laughed at so light-heartedly. These people may enjoy it because it is just a joke, and therefore, they would not see a reason to take such things too seriously. Instead, all sides, the trickster and the tricked, are supposed, by habit, to let go of any mental anguish involved, and of their egos. On the other hand, there are people who do not like ulterior motives , even if the motive is to make them laugh. A trick, even if it is made up, is technically a scam. A scam made for comedic effect. The less aware we are of the deception being as such, the more likely we are to get emotionally hurt. Also, the less we care about such moral concerns, the easier it should be for us to not be deeply insulted. As you can see, being able to not care about deep, worldly matters all the time, can sometimes be a form of strength. You can spare yourself much excessive suffering by being more lighthearted. Being deceived for comedic effect can pose a challenge to our trust in other people, especially those whom we like and see as friends. The same goes for being deceived in any way that's intentional. Some have greater trust issues than others. A magician, trickster, mentalist, etc., are acceptable tricksters. Some of us may even pay for their tricks. The reason we might like them is because we come prepared for the possibility of a surprise. Jokes, however, are just a variant of trickery. Magicians aren't necessarily good at comedy, it seems like a specific miche in the world of "magic". The problem with jokes, logically, comes when awareness of them ruins the comedy. When you already know something is a joke, the element of surprise is ruined. Without subverting our expectations, a joke is most likely to be a poor one. Hence, a comedian doesn't usually explain the joke. Therefore, pulling off pranks could be riskier than you might think. It could result in a good laugh, as well as trauma. Some might even claim that, "Pranks may be a form of psychological/emotional abuse". As a kid, I once shook hands with another student, only to find myself mildly electrified. Well, I was a bit in shock (pun intended). I did not expect that this other kid would electrify me, and thus I was disappointed in myself for putting my trust in him at the time. The funny thing about that uncomfortable situation wasn't that I suffered, but the subversion of expectations. That's why jokes can easily be cruel, and why some characters in fiction exist mainly for comic relief, like General Skarr : their agony is supposed to make us laugh because of humor's absurd/unexpected/ hidden logic. I don't think there's anything wrong with having different senses of humor. However, I do think that getting electrified by a handshake is not justified by taste. Unless of course both sides enjoy practical jokes. Emmanuel Kant most likely wouldn't like a wedgie. The main antagonist of Ratchet and Clank, Dr. Nefarious, became an evil mastermind because the narcissistic "hero", Captain Qwark, gave him wedgies . I wouldn't be surprised if electrification could be very dangerous to certain people, such as pregnant women, or people who have past trauma related to this in their unconscious. I'm glad that, back in elementary school, I wasn't a pregnant woman. Is danger or actual harm justified by humor? Most likely not. And perhaps, in some people's minds, they will not even be pleased to be deceived. Deception is disappointing, and perhaps... life is already disappointing as it is. Philosophers aren't supposed to trick or to scam anyways. It's kind of counter-intuitive for them to do it, given they are researchers/seekers of the truth.

  • A Writer's Voice (A Poem)

    (Philosocom Writing Directory) (Inspired by this theme)   I wish, to write, The State gave me the right, to write; These thoughts, to be published, by me! And when my energy is revived, For work it will be utilized. Then I see the faces, They visit with eyes, not maces. So read, my content, And cherish this right, with me; As many, are doing so, delightfully! Although I am just, a man; Trying to understand the world, around me, With my rights I know I can, What is wrong, to see! Though a developing, baron; Trying to understand the world, around me, With my rights I know I can see, And lead my empire, alone. For my voice to be heard, If I must fight, I'll fight, To let my voice be shared! Even after death arrives Philosocom, survives! (Poem)

  • Do you have five minutes to talk about UAP? A Guessing Attempt Written by Ori Sindel

    (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) (Originally written on May 20, 2021) (Philosocom's Subcategory on Aliens and Outer Space) (Philosocom's Ori Sindel Articles) Summary of events from memory: In April 2022, a collection of three videos documenting unidentified flying objects distributed by a company founded by none other than Tom DeLonge of the band "Blink 182" turned out to be, much to my surprise, authenticated by the Pentagon. Around the same time, the corona virus penetrated the Western world, and everyone was preoccupied with it and only that — and this is probably also the reason that almost none of my friends had heard of it; In my opinion, the timing of the authenticity certificates was not accidental, and was intended to prevent public panic in the style of Orson Welles' "War of the Worlds" radio scandal. It should be noted that in the videos, and according to the evidence, whatever it is, moves in an illogical way that does not conform to the laws of physics known to man. From those around me, the reactions range from "even if it's aliens, who cares" to "it must be Russian or Chinese technology.". There is a lot of skepticism on the subject, and it seems that belief in life forms capable of interstellar travel is a complete taboo. Even after the Pentagon admitted that the documented hints of these life forms were authentic, as part of my life as an artist, I get to use my imagination a lot. And I want to use my imagination for the public good to make a few guesses as to what we might be seeing in the videos. Many years ago, in 2010, I imagined a scenario where an eternal being with mythical characteristics existed. The entity is not God, but it is the closest thing to God that exists in our cosmos. I imagined Barack Obama (simply because he was the president at the time) taking office, satisfied, feeling like the most powerful man in the world. Then two agents enter his office and present to him the evidence for the existence of an eternal being. The agents present the situation to the incoming US president as a top-tier security threat; "a dangerous alien capable of destroying everything and being invincible." And it is better that the public does not become aware of the existence of something so powerful and dangerous that it will create total anarchy. After the agents leave the office, Obama collapses with both hands on his head and rages, because he thought he was going to be the most powerful person on the planet (and since he didn't know until now that there were any life forms beyond Earth), and here, it turns out to him that he is a mortal, like the rest of us, and that he must now be aware of a way of life that, in Obama's opinion, has the potential to bring the apocalypse down on humanity and the cosmos on a daily and unexpected basis. The continuation of the fantasy began when Donald Trump took office. And I just imagined Trump declaring an arrogant but hopeless war on that eternal entity. First of all, my guess is that the word "alien" is simply inaccurate, for the simple reason that if there is someone powerful enough to undertake interstellar travel, it makes more sense that we are in their territory, rather than the other way around. If a person is an entity, I prefer to use the word "super-entity." Another reason for my disconnection from the word "alien" is that the developed myth, which I believe is not true at all, around aliens, is simply too far-fetched to be true. Small, green dwarfs with large black eyes, flying around the universe in flying saucers and conducting experiments on humans; in science fiction films, they are even portrayed as invaders or a threat to humanity. According to Stephen Hawking, if aliens exist, we have reason to be concerned because they will want to conquer us and commit colonialist crimes against us, just as the developed white man did wherever he invaded. Everything I wrote now just doesn't make sense to me, and it seems to me that this is simply a projection of humanity towards the unknown, like a person looking into a circus mirror that reflects a distorted reflection of himself. The Americans referred to the UAP as "vehicles not of this world", and also as "technology that we do not possess." I may very well be mistaken, but it seems to me almost self-evident that a "super-entity" with the ability to perform interstellar travel does not need technology at all. At least not as we understand technology. That is, the "super-entity" has evolved in a way that allows them to travel interstellarly with the help of their body organs, or maybe even with the help of their consciousness, or maybe even something beyond the perception of man at this stage of his evolution. And what you see in the videos is maybe these very same "super-entities" and not a vehicle from another world. Another thing that I don't really like is the idea that they have a home planet at all. In my imagination, it's generally a kind of interstellar nomad, like migratory birds or sea turtles. In terms of everything I've said so far, the only time I've seen anything approaching my concept of what the super-entities might be in videos and footage was in the movie 2001: A Space Odyssey, by which I of course mean the completely mysterious black monoliths. I personally believe that if this is the case, a "super entity", capable of interstellar travel must also be moral because it has had countless years to develop, and morality is a survival instinct in intelligent beings. But the morality of the super-entities may be different from the various morals now and throughout the history of mankind, and when they judge us, they will know how to judge better the person with the least power and also the person with the most power on the face of the Earth.

  • My Great Fathers -- A Poem (Videos-Turned-Into-Posts)

    (Subcategory Directory: Why I Want to "Dominate" The World Through Philosophy -- My Means For a Better World The Fourth Philosocom Day Speech The Quarter-Life Speech - A Message to My Audience Lessons of Light From a Darkened Man To Humanity -- How To Become A Beacon of Light ) During my high school years, I used to write poems as well. I don't describe myself as a poet, but I did manage to create an entire handbook of poems in English which I never published. Here is one of the poems from that handbook, titled "My Great Fathers," a tribute to the intellectuals of history and of the world. Enjoy yourselves and have a good week. To those who gave themselves a living spirit, In the dusts of yellow-papered books. The those who were profound in intellectual merit, Some struggled among the hillbillies and crooks, Some prospered in a noble narrate. Their voices are echoed in halls of university, German, American, Russian or French, They are scattered in diversity. Some were miserable in life’s trench, And found themselves in the morning, On a filthy and wet bench. Others where rich and outgoing, And in were grasped by Dionysus’s catch. I do not care for the genetic aspect, As I view those Great Fathers With all of my intellectual respect. In the written word they were the masters, And granted me an inspirational impact. I may know and will know some, Better than my own ancestors. I wish for a certain day to come, And myself to be remembered alongside these majors. In a concrete block of a hermitage, I deeply hope to continue this antique heritage, As this new and evolving modern age, Gradually locking itself in an electronic cage, Whilst the paper page, Is being replaced by video games Of nerve-wrecking rage. So many names, From the poet to the sage, Were remembered under the glory of the pen, And as if they were all joined into a hall of a league, From the western renaissance to the industry’s lack of fatigue, To the oriental east and their contemplative Zen. If they all have one thing in common, Is that they expressed themselves via this sacred craft, Of writing deep words of intellectual summon, Of words which nowadays are generally being left, Like an overused piece of lemon, Which sails aimlessly in a primitive raft, Away from the sea of consciousness, Into the depths of the esoteric and ominous, Where I live. For many people they have little to give, And some may even be forgotten, And replace by these who never seem to be rotten, Nor to outlive; These idolized people with little cognitive contribution, Who grasp the masses in unripe dreams of popular realm Of sublime illusion, To maintain them as entertained, obedient and calm. Little the Great Fathers today have to claim, In a world that may never be the same. Perhaps I plenty of others, Are the pilgrims, the newcomers, To this land of digitalism, From an abandoned earth of word-roamers, With the mission of fighting the legions of nihilism, In the concrete fields of emotional schism, And to grant millions if not billions, A soft and petting existentialism, Under the maze of a towering neon. However, little the Great Fathers today have to claim, In a world that may never be the same. Nevertheless, this lack of popularity, And even, at times, absent general knowledge, I too, in the name of my individuality, Wish to become a part of the percentage, Of the literal intellectuality. A member of the Humanities Historical Meritocracy; A regime overshadowed by the Pop-Culture Aristocracy. In the name of my mother, I want, too, to be a Great Father.

  • A Confused State and Back on Track (A Poem by Mr. O. C. Isaac)

    (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) (Background music) (Philosocom's O. C. Isaac Articles) (Philosocom's Directory On Emotions) Part I: A Confused State and Back on Track In the depths of confusion, I find myself lost, A tangled web of thoughts, emotions tossed. A haze clouds my mind, paths unclear, Caught in a maze, drowning in fear. Questions swirl, like whispers in the wind, Answers elusive, where do I begin? Uncertainty grips me, like a vice around my chest, Seeking clarity, longing for a moment of rest. In this confused state, I take a breath, Embracing the discomfort , facing the depth. For in the midst of confusion, growth can arise, A chance to discover truths , hidden in disguise. I surrender to the unknown , trusting the journey, Knowing that confusion can lead to epiphany. I seek solace in patience, in moments of still, Allowing clarity to surface, at its own will. I listen to my heart, a compass in the haze, Guiding me forward through the confusing maze. With time and reflection, the fog will clear, And I'll find my way, overcoming the fear. So, in this confused state, I'll persevere, Knowing that clarity will eventually appear. For even amidst the chaos and the unknown, I'll find my footing, and carve a path of my own. Part II: Analysis (By Mr. Tomasio Rubinshtein) The poet , lost in the fog of doubt, grapples with the storm within him . A relentless spirit, though clouded, remains steadfast against the waves of confusion. He recognizes the storm as a crucible, forging strength in its fiery heart. Like a seasoned swordsman , he embraces the uncertainty, a challenge to hone his resolve. He seeks clarity, not as a passive observer, but as an active participant in the battle against the irrational anxiety of uncertainty . He draws his blade, not of steel, but of focus and resolve, cutting through the tangled thoughts that bind him to the oppression of stagnation. The poet seems to realize that true victory lies not in the absence of struggle, but in the courage to face it head-on, and overcome it. He finds solace in the quiet moments of triumphs , where the mind stills and the true path emerges from the fog of his own fatigue. With each breath, he strengthens his resolve, his spirit unwavering, unrelenting in its path forward. In the end, the poet emerges, not merely surviving the storm, but transformed by it . He has carved his own destiny , his path illuminated by the very darkness that once threatened to consume him. His own demons, the very those who could've crumbled his mind to insanity, have been subverted and consumed for his greater strength!

  • Understanding Patterns and Their Role in Elementary Reality

    Article Overview by Mr. C. Kingsley and Co. "Understanding Patterns and Their Role in Elementary Reality" is a philosophical exploration of patterns, reality, and human perception. The article challenges conventional thinking by exploring abstract concepts like the nature of reality, perception, and intersubjectivity. It touches on ideas from philosophy of mind and metaphysics, such as whether patterns exist independently of human perception and how societal constructs shape our worldview. This depth of inquiry engages readers to think critically about the world beyond surface-level assumptions. One of the key strengths of the article is its willingness to challenge conventional views, particularly in terms of rejecting unquestioned societal norms and the established "patterns" that dominate human understanding. The call to question ingrained beliefs, particularly through the lens of logic, reflects a commendable commitment to intellectual rigor. The discussion on intersubjectivity is well-presented, raising important questions about how reality is collectively constructed and maintained. The incorporation of a quotation from John Duran adds depth and credibility to the discussion, encouraging readers to approach new ideas with an open, rational mind. The link between logic and patterns is particularly interesting, connecting linguistic, philosophical, and scientific inquiries , reinforcing the importance of pattern recognition in shaping our understanding of reality. Overall, "Understanding Patterns and Their Role in Elementary Reality" is a thought-provoking piece that invites readers to question their assumptions about reality and the frameworks through which they view the world.  (Background music) Through the Lens We Craft Our vision of the world is built upon the patterns that we have either been taught to see in it or have learned to see on our own, whether or not those patterns actually exist beyond our perception. The more we sink ourselves into the depths of these mental frameworks, the harder it becomes to see the world independently of them. There are no inherent patterns in the world beyond the mind. That is unless these patterns exist through the representative layer of reality . In other words, this world might as well be a representation of powerful forces. I am not talking necessarily about gods, which are needed to be determined , but also of large-scale corporations, capable of impacting the whole world. Beyond these forces' presence there exists only temporary order that arises from a foundation of chaos and constant flux of energy. Outside accurate, predictable models of reality, AKA patterns, all we're left with is inaccurate, unpredictable and multi-dimensional chaos. Our very world, with its seemingly stable structures, is a product of this principle. This interplay between order and disorder shapes the ever-changing tapestry of present reality and of what it might become. It is theorized that the patterns I talked about, indeed exist as representation of action, with human history being built up towards the accomplishment of a greater plan. To prove this theory we must research the human course of history, which appears to be spiral, not linear , and observe the similarities between different points of time, where the patterns occur. Tying the connections between these patterns, and verifying them in the first place, can help us understand the bigger context/s of which we reside in. Such contexts, while absolutely global, can also be cosmological . However, understanding a cosmological context is far harder than studying worldly contexts, which is already hard for many human minds to do. But if to quote Mr. John Duran: Yes, there are vast plans and mechanisms in motion around us all. Harbor no doubts about this. However the levels and intricacies go far beyond any human possibility. We are too small, too minor to create such plans, we simply play the parts we are designed to play. Some get happier roles , but many do not. We play our roles for the gods themselves. We are their beloved mutts, their entertainment for the evening. We keep them amused, since eternity is quite a long time , and distractions are forever needed. In the absence of proper research of the past, and its effects on the present and future, we can't accurately deduce whether such cosmic plans exist. After all, it requires much evidence to back up claims of either side. By the same logic, dismissing a theory as a conspiracy theory isn't the path of the rational thinker. It's the path of a person who thinks using the Strawman's fallacy is rational. Examining Intersubjectivity and the Construction of Meaning The world, as many people perceive it is a woven network from the threads of societal conventions and paradigms. That is also known as intersubjectivity , and most often than not, it pretends to be objectivity through fallacies such as ad-populum, appeal to authority and appeal to novelty. What we see in the external world are not inherent patterns, but rather the illusionary frameworks we've been taught to navigate it. That is unless we'll be able to prove it otherwise, and patterns, as existing representatively, cannot occur without them representing an entity. The seemingly objective rules of driving, the meaning we assign to words, and the authority of social norms – these are not inherent features of an entity-less reality, but expressions of systems thought out by minds who got a grip on reality. And by "grip on reality" I do not refer to their level of sanity, but rather their ability to maintain, alter and design reality. The patterns we recognize exist as evidence. Reality cannot be designed without a plan, and the very term itself, "logic", or "logos", also refers to "plan" in Greek etymology. All forms of research derive from logic, hence why many fields of research contain the addition of "logy" in their terminology. When a field of research is proven wrong at its most basic, it becomes a psuedo-science , or a field of research researches something that doesn't really exist. As such, logic, as a field of research, aims to observe and research patterns that exist, and not patterns whose connection has failed to prove itself. After all, the point of logic is to distinguish between truth and falsehood. This fabricated reality of pseudoscience, where the connections between patterns have been proven as unrelated, explains why truly innovative ideas might initially be perceived as deviant or even delusional. However, as long as they have not been proven as incorrect, they deserve to challenge the established conventions and paradigms that we mistake for the world itself. How come? In the name of the truth, all perceived connections are to be challenged, or we might further fall into delusion of our own untested making. Reality Beyond Societal Constructs Unlearning deeply ingrained patterns is a monumental task. It's a task that becomes unnecessarily harder when we attach our hearts and minds to our disproved philosophies. We've been "programmed" for so long, our identities and sense of order intertwined with these societal constructs. This unnecessarily makes it harder for us to set ourselves free from the cage of intersubjective perception. The very suggestion that our lifelong understanding might be false can be disorienting as well as uncanny. If the foundation of our perception crumbles, what does that say about who we are? But this prolonged sense of uncanniness, although presenting the imperfection of science and philosophy , is a worthy sacrifice in the name of the truth. This resistance is particularly strong in those who hold deeply ingrained beliefs, often religious. The very idea that the core tenets of their faith could be demonstrably untrue becomes an existential threat. Their entire framework for understanding the world would be shattered. It's far easier, although intellectually dishonest, to cling to established beliefs and patterns, no matter how flawed, than to embrace the unsettling possibility of an entirely different reality.

  • What's In a Name? Names as Rewards -- How To Utilize Your Name Through Action

    (Philosophy of Names Directory) (Background music) Synopsis by Mr. O. C. Isaac and Co. The article "What's In a Name? Names as Rewards -- How To Utilize Your Name Through Action" explores the significance of names and the randomness of existence. It presents a unique perspective on life, moving beyond typical philosophical discussions and providing an interesting analogy between life and an unscripted symphony. Mr. Tomasio uses vivid and engaging language to convey complex ideas, with the metaphor of life as an orchestra without a divine conductor being particularly evocative. The article encourages readers to embrace their potential and take bold actions, offering a positive and motivating message. It delves into the concepts of mental, emotional, and social weaknesses with insightful quotes from Mike Vestil , providing practical areas for self-improvement. The exploration of names as a reward for existence and a marker of identity is both intriguing and thought-provoking, encouraging readers to reflect on the significance of their own names and the impact they can have on their legacy. A Philosophy of Chance and Existence Life is an orchestra, but without, necessarily, a divine conductor. It's a vibrant, unpredictable symphony where random chance plays the leading role . Forget cosmic plans; anything can happen to anyone, anywhere, at any time, thanks to the intricate, multi-layered nature of reality most of us aren't even fully aware of due to our universal state of ignorance. This inherent chaos might seem grim and intimidating, but it holds immense potential. And in potential one can find great hope. The braver you are, the more you can be willing to venture into new experiences, and the more likely you are to encounter the unexpected twists of fate without being subjugated to the silencing nature of fear. An Unscripted Symphony, Led By Strength and Weakness We scramble for control, employing every tool at our disposal, ethical or not, normal or strange, to control others to submit to our mental, social and emotional weaknesses... To quote Mike Vestil : Mental weaknesses are limitations in a person’s cognitive abilities or thinking patterns that hinder their performance in various aspects of their life. These weaknesses may include difficulty concentrating, poor memory, learning disabilities, or difficulty processing information. Emotional weaknesses can manifest in various forms, from difficulty expressing emotions or understanding others’ feelings to a lack of emotional resilience during challenging situations. Emotional weaknesses include low self-esteem, high sensitivity, tendency to overreact, or easily feeling overwhelmed by pressure. Recognizing and addressing emotional weaknesses is essential for personal growth and maintaining healthy relationships with others. Social weaknesses are limitations in a person’s interpersonal skills that affect their ability to build and maintain relationships, work with others, and navigate social settings. These may include poor communication skills , difficulty setting personal boundaries, lack of assertiveness , or social anxiety. Developing an awareness of social weaknesses can empower individuals to improve their interaction with others and build stronger networks and connections. As the ever-present force randomness is, do you really want to go down in history as a weak man or woman? As one relenting to the tyranny of chance? As a defeatist who wasn't strong enough to forge his or her own success?   Your actions, recognized or uncredited, weaves its way through history, minorly or majorly shaping the rise and fall of families, communities and empires, through the seemingly mundane moments of our day. Like the chance encounter that sparks a lifelong friendship. Like the unintentional choice of choosing toxic connections, and evolving in accordance.  Chaos, fueled by our naivety and ignorance, is the underlying current propelling us towards different kinds developments we may fail to examine. Development Under the Frame of Name This philosophy extends even to the most basic element of our identity:  Our name. Before we take our first breath, before the miracle of conception ,  a merciless survival race takes place in an activity many of us consider a great bliss.  We are not preordained with a name. It's a reward of a fierce competition that starts long before biological mechanics takes their course.  In the original dance of sperm and egg, a victor emerges, granting itself a chance of securing its place in the external world. Millions of your sperm s die off in the process. Are their deaths hold any value to you? Hohoho... human alienation begins even before we're given birth. Amazing. Each of us is the product of a million random occurrences, a single champion in a race that began before we could even dream of being . A humbling realization that we often miss. Acknowledging the inherent uncertainty of life while remaining mindful of the freedom and potential it affords, can compel us to find our "rhythm" in the unpredictable. This can lead us to create our own unique melody within the ever-evolving currents of existence. Champions of Chance Countless embryos, fragile promises of life, succumbed to miscarriage.  We here are all survivors, the ones who defied the odds and clung to existence.  For those conceived unintentionally, life is an unintentional opportunity.  Unpredictability can breed genius, earning its function in reality's development. The sheer chance that brought us into this world cares not for our consent. Reality is that ruthless. And yet, every life deserves a chance to flourish by the biological imperative. The fact that we exist, that we overcame the struggle before birth, can help us remember we could also live despite current struggles . Think of yourself as a champion, a victor in the grand lottery of life. And your name is your reward. It's a badge of honor, commemorating your victory. Your first victory. It's a permanent reminder of: The countless possibilities that could have been if you lost the sperm race. Evidence to sheer improbability. The incredible resilience that led to your existence, and anything that will stem from it. Being Alive As Privilege Unlike the fallen competitors, the forgotten sperm cells, your name signifies your distinct existence, as the culmination of chance encounters. While our names may not guarantee eternal fame , they hold a deeper significance. They are the titles bestowed upon the victors. The sperm cells that didn't make it may not be remembered, but you, the child, are the embodiment of a journey, determined by your brains, by your heart , and by your power. You hold the potential to shape your own story, to leave your mark on the world, regardless of the path that could have led another sperm to your very position. Your name is not just a badge from the race; it's the privilege. No sperm deserves victory, like with no grown human. The world is meritocratic by default. Only the skilful, with the relevant set of skills, survive AND thrive. Use this understanding as fuel for your creativity, your resilience, and your determination to make whatever you want, from the opportunity called life. Go forth and compose a symphony that will resonate through time, or lie low . Do with your initial victory as you see fit. Reap the rewards and suffer the consequences. The Enduring Power of a Name In The World of Love The race for existence doesn't end with the first breath.  Life unfolds in stages, each presenting its own challenges and triumphs. Think back to the initial competition for existence. Just like that unpredictable race,  marriage can be uncertain... Traditionally, one of the partners picks up the surname of another. This can be seen as a victory to the one who rightfully earned it. Treat yourself as a victor, or treat your partner as such. The one you won over, or the victory of your loved one.  Relationships can be lost, unions dissolve, loyalty betrayed , trust broken...  Yet, acquiring a new surname, even if later denounced, signifies a chapter lived,  a risk taken . It's a mark of venturing into the unknown, of building something new. Of course it is often rewarding, to dare. Daring allows us to grow... Despite the hurt, and despite the unprepared suffering... As Death Parts You From Your Influence On Your Name... And in death, however, the dynamics shift.  The power of a name takes center stage. It's the lasting echo of our existence, a marker in the sands of time. Deaths ceases our own ability to act, permanently... Unless our name is stolen by another? Hohoho, the fear of identity theft...  Either way, our actions, throughout life, shape how we are remembered. And per their memories, they will approach us and our legacy accordingly. How others perceive us, how history judges our deeds, carries a degree of uncertainty. Unlike in life, we won't be around to defend ourselves, to explain our motivations... I have no remorse for Nietzsche's sister, his literary executor , who actively distorted his work. My rage for such intellectual dishonesty is not misplaced... I need to be better than her when I become an executor myself to all those I may inherit. A name is a reward... especially one whose honoring rests on my shoulders. This inherent lack of control can be daunting... I wish to reduce that fear in me and in others. I see no desire or need to discard such legitimate concern. Taking care of a legacy is also taking care of one's name after their departure from this world. Bonus: The Tarnished Badge of The Immoral " Noble Wolf " I see no reason why humanity should not be as cruel as nature. -- Adolf Hitler A name can carry a surprising amount of weight.  Take Adolf Hitler, the genocidal xenophobe.  Once a widespread name in German-speaking countries , it became forever associated with his reign of terror. The long shadow, casted by the tyrant, rendered the name "Adolf" highly unlikeable. History is how once-commonplace names became synonymous with hate,  violence, and genocide: Power hungry megalomaniacs strip names of their appeal, becoming a symbol of evil instead, and ruining it for anyone else sharing the same name. Adolf Hitler Uunona " has no plans for world domination after winning a sweeping victory in local elections [ in Namibia ]." This is a cautionary tale, highlighting the responsibility that comes with wielding power and the lasting impact our actions can have. Conclusion: Name As Brand , Brand As Asset Our names are not just trophies for winning the race for existence but are vessels we fill with meaning through our choices. Treat your name with care, for your actions determine how people will react to it, and literally to anything, anything under its name. Physical property, content, intellectual property and so on. People won't necessarily care for your true thoughts. Rather, they would mainly care about how they perceive your image in their own minds. This inherent responsibility can feel exhausting , but it can also empower you. It can remind you that every action, every decision, shapes the any story, any anecdote under your name, the role in your theatre of society. Use your name as a source of actively choosing to live a life that will bring you honor, relevance , true love, and perhaps, even a touch of genius. Embrace the power of your name, for it is the representative of the person you are, and the person you'll become throughout life. Be mindful of your actions more, for the legacy you leave behind is a nonfiction story written in the choices you make today. Key Takeaways: Life's an orchestra, conducted by chance:   We are products of a chaotic yet beautiful universe, where resilience and adaptation are key . Embrace Your Inner Champion:  We all defied the odds to be here. Channel this spirit to overcome challenges and create a meaningful life. Your name: A Badge of Honor:  See your name as a symbol of your victory in the "sperm race" and the potential that lies ahead. Action Shapes Legacy:  The choices we make shape how our names are remembered. The Call to Action: This article is a powerful call to action: Embrace the Unpredictable:  See life's fortunate/unfortunate randomness as an opportunity for growth. Develop Your Strengths:  Address your mental, emotional, and social weaknesses to reach your full potential. Leave Your Mark:  Use your name to create a positive impact on the world, big or small. Your name is a story waiting to be written. Choose your actions wisely and strive to compose the symphony that you want to be seen in this world.

  • The Necrocracy Paradox And the Far East Directory

    The Subcategory Directory https://www.philosocom.com/post/the-philosopher-who-attempted-to-overthrow-the-japanese-army https://www.philosocom.com/post/how-to-apply-the-bushido-code-to-the-21st-century-by-mr-john-igwe https://www.philosocom.com/post/the-salaryman-philosophy https://www.philosocom.com/post/the-failure-of-the-juche-philosophy-north-korean-philosophy Embracing Wu Wei in the Modern World: Taoist Wisdom for Today's Challenges (By Mr. Joseph Bright) (Background music) The Necrocracy Paradox And the Far East Directory Nowadays, there are only 3 common types of regimes, regardless of a country's official title: Democracy, Dictatorship, "Constitutional Monarchies". The latter are, basically democracies with a monarch who has little control in the country that they represent. If they have any control, it is beyond them being mere figureheads/symbolic leaders like in the United Kingdom. There is another, more uncommon regime that has largely become a thing of the past , called "Absolute Monarchy", which very few countries actually have today. Said countries, as examples, are: Saudi Arabia, Oman, Eswatini (formerly known as Swaziland). In such countries, the monarch has almost no opposition from their subjects, and their word is final. However, the only two ways to oppose such a leader, is to either assassinate or overthrow them. Another way is by convincing them that the country can be reformed for greater civil freedoms , or by giving them reason to retire from their seat of power. Otherwise, they are above the law. Side Note: Most of the world today is composed of republics, not necessarily democracies, and the two do not have to be different from one another. In a republic, as well as in a democracy, there the representatives are elected. Ironically, The most authoritarian country in the world in terms of its regime is North Korea, or "The People's Democratic Republic of Korea". That's because, although NK is clearly a dictatorship, it is also the following: A communist dictatorship with regional elections. A monarchy ruled by a single dynasty. And strangely of all, a " necrocracy ." North Korea today is the only country in the world where the previous, deceased leaders are still considered rulers of the country, even though they're dead. The country's founder, Kim Il-sung, is even considered "the Eternal Supreme Leader of the DPRK". Necrocracies in the history of mankind are extremely rare, with the very few necrocracies being some regimes during the respective histories of Bhutan and Tibet. The Philosocom Article Empire is essentially a virtual benevolent dictatorship , and also a necrocracy, with a dead master being its eternal spiritual leader. A Necrocracy is a paradox I believe we can all learn from: The aim of philosophy, of course, is to study the truth. In reality, however, not all truths are necessarily, conventionally logical. People who are mad geniuses possess far greater advanced logic, to the point some may consider it utterly "irrational". The "Necrocracy Paradox" is simple: If the dead rule the country, then the actual leaders of said country are not their actual leaders. The head of state basically rules from the grave, despite not being able to lead. The actual leader/s, instead, lead in that person's name and image. In N. Korea, Kim Jong Un, the current leader, is the recognized leader of that country both outside and from within. However, when your country is a necrocracy, then the current Kim is, technically, not the "true eternal" leader, as that honor is preserved for his grandfather, who founded the country, Kim Il-Sung. The current Kim, therefore, is both a leader and not an actual leader, if that makes sense. In other words, the Supreme Leader supremely leads in the name of the true eternal leader, and not entirely by/for himself. The Supreme leader is but an affiliate of a tribe greater than him, AKA the Kim Dynasty. As Supreme a leader as the Supreme Leader is, he is not a sole monarch/dictator, but merely part of a family where Supreme Leaders originate from. Therefore, the Dynasty is more supreme than the individual, supreme leader, with the true eternal ruler, being the most supreme of them all! It doesn't make sense, because the name "Supreme" implies that there is no greater leader than the Supreme leader. However, although the original grandfather is no more, but legally he is the true ruler. Additional note: The entire Christian religion can be seen as a necrocracy, with the ruler being Jesus Christ. The Christian Churches are definitely not democracies. The paradox in question, therefore, demonstrates that a leader can lead without necessarily being the "true", de-facto leader, no matter how much they are recognized in both respect and in the execution of their memory. The dead, true eternal leader, then, is nothing more than a glorified symbol, unless their legacy is carried out by his or her successor/s. Their sacred respect, however, remains despite the successors being their "puppets", and regardless of whether or not the eternal leader would approve of their actions if he or she were alive. As one can deduce, the idea of Supreme, being the above of everything, doesn't make sense in a necrocracy. And yet, that is how a necrocracy necessarily works. The term "Necrocracy" from a logical standpoint, is therefore intricate to the point most would deem it utterly illogical. What you see here is a perfect example of an utterly unconventional logic. Unconventional logic is highly complex and is more often than not, very specific and eccentric. Unconventional logic has many complexities in it that the naked, uncritical eye will skip understanding, leading said naked eye to dismiss such logic (if not the mind behind it) as insane. The more advanced/unconventional logic you have, the less clear you'll sound to most minds. It is indeed difficult for most to appreciate humans with a natural tendency for such logical complexity. It is kind the main reason such geniuses become authoritarian despots in the first place: The tendency of the herd to reject them and to dismiss their unique perception on reality. Due to my better ability to express myself literarily, I became a philosopher in my quest for better understanding existence, and sharing my findings with you in a way you will understand. Given I am also a "mad genius", the aim of Philosocom is to communicate philosophy for world rectification. I prefer to keep honing my communication skills ruthlessly than to become a corrupt despot. The premise, "what isn't logical can't exist" isn't true, because if I write 1+1=3, even if incorrect, it will exist in visible form. The same goes for Necrocracy. In other words, there are different ways the same term can exist. The term can reflect reality, or different aspects of the same, multifaceted reality. When people are mislead by it, they commit the "written word" fallacy. Final Words Logic, while a great tool for better knowing about existence, is not something unitary. Rather, it is something people need to learn and develop as a way of habit, in order for them to understand just how advanced logic can really be. And in many cases, not only advanced, but highly subjective and/or quantum, that it is capable of creating and dismantling entire societal matrixes in relentless critical examinations.

  • On Philosocom's True Master... My Mysterious Late Grandmother

    (Philosocom's directory on death: https://www.philosocom.com/post/defining-death )   (Philosocom's Subcategory on Revenge) (Philosocom's Subcategory On the Past) (Philosocom's Subcategory on Master Numi) Article Synopsis by Mr. J. Igwe and Co. The article "On Philosocom's True Master... My Mysterious Late Grandmother" is a heartfelt tribute to the Mr. Tomasio's grandmother. It explores themes of love, loss, idealism, disillusionment, and determination , framed in the context of both the grandmother's artistic legacy and the author's own philosophical journey. The narrative expresses deep emotional connections, particularly the profound bond between the author and their grandmother. This emotional authenticity makes the article relatable, as many readers can connect with themes of grief , admiration, and unresolved feelings toward loved ones. The piece delves into philosophical reflections, not just about the grandmother's life but also about human nature, perception , and the complexities of reality. The author's thought experiment on how people perceive reality highlights the philosophical underpinnings of the work, making the article intellectually stimulating. The writing has a distinct narrative voice, characterized by its introspective and often cynical tone. The juxtaposition of warmth for the grandmother and disdain for the world creates a compelling contrast, giving the article a sense of purpose and direction. The themes of legacy and preservation are admirable, especially in a digital age where preserving someone's spirit and work through writing or art takes on new forms of immortality . The use of symbolic imagery throughout the article adds layers of meaning, reflecting the complexity of the author's identity and their self-imposed role as both a protector and avenger of their grandmother's ideals. In conclusion, this article serves as a heartfelt and profound tribute to the author's grandmother, offering valuable insights into the author's philosophical worldview. (Background music) I have always missed her since her death in 2012. In her funeral I was probably the only one who cried in joy , for her feelings towards me were validated by her family. I was her dearest person in her life. Likewise, she was the closest person to me, before her departure from this world . She still was, long after her death. For most of my life, she was. In her final years, I took it upon myself to become her sole apprentice. My true master taught me a lot. The Master taught me that I should live in harmony with others , that I should treat people with respect , and that this world needs to be rectified. This world... She cared much for it. However, most of humanity did not bother to care for her. As such, her heart was broken, again and again , by this world. By humanity. I heard her sorrow in her cries. Humanity has abandoned and neglected me. With all of her genius and mastery of painting, she was discarded by this world . Her art isn't found anywhere. I have checked. You won't find her artistic legacy anywhere but in this Article Empire, whom I decided to create and manage in her honor. After all, she did seek a better world. A world where, in her words, "Dogs do not chase after cats and vice versa". My true master helped me recover from the disillusionment of childhood innocence. Many may remain innocent until later on in life . I, however, as solitary as I was and am, have lost my pure perception of this world very early on. This was also aligned with the success of my first philosophical thought experiment as a child. People really do see reality, but only in the way of their choosing . Therefore, consciously or otherwise, they may blind themselves to reality's certain aspects, while believing in their own false confidence. My own sorrow and depression started with this, and started when I learned my true master's great suffering. This has deeply affected me, to this day. And, due to the findings of my first thought experiment, my secretive , hermitic behavior has begun accordingly. After all, I realized early on in life, how blind people really are. Especially, those who think they see reality for what it is. If they saw reality for what it is, they would've treated my true master with far more respect, instead of focusing on their own interests and emotions, with such impulsive recklessness. Ironically to Philosocom's frequent readership, I was relatively extroverted as a child, and was part of a loose, rag-tag group of friends. However, without anyone's knowledge, their false confidence played into my hands very well. I have changed, transformed and darkened under people's noses. Children, as well as adults, taught they knew me better than I am. Pathetic. Pathetic over-confidence. A pathetic compensation for their insecurities. I was seen by others as unpredictable in my behavior, despite becoming more solitary . However, much was per my planning, as inspired by the teachings of my True Master. She didn't have any articles of her own. Her main legacy to this world was her art. And art, she mastered throughout her life. Somehow, despite her broken heart, my depressed true master still retained faith in humanity. Her heart kept breaking apart every time, as this world let her down so carelessly. However, I, as her sole apprentice, was the only one who never failed to disappoint her. For her true kind nature, this world ignored, I saw much reason to serve as the main... if not only... beacon of light in her life. Had I not been so, had I have forsaken my master as well, she would've died far earlier than otherwise... Being both sick in body and in mind. However, despite this, she was wiser. Wiser than most people. She needed to be respected for her health. Therefore, respect, I have respect for her. Gave her more than any human being ever cared to give her. Her heart has also darkened, and her cynical mindset was accordingly. She was too dark for people to accept her. However, her darkness stemmed from pain and agony, and she mainly suffered in this life. People were overwhelmed from her eccentric behavior, and did not have a big enough heart to empathize with her. I, however, had. And, even as a child, I refused to escape her presence. I intentionally came to her hermitage frequently, and tended to her psychological needs. I never feared her, like some people did. I was never intimidated by her. The weak of heart, did. And also, the weak of mind. I very much enjoyed her dark humor, and I very much enjoyed crying with her. It was a most genuine participation in worldly suffering. And this genuine collaboration in crying, gave the both of us much solace. I was trying to open my heart to people ever since, like she did. My heart was broken accordingly, of course. My revenge however was not hurting them back, but making sure I keep fulfilling my Master's wishes. I didn't know her most of her life. Despite her old age she died prematurely. However, I still knew her the most. At her time, she also knew me the most. I hated when others were around. Her other guests, which I leave unnamed, argued with her often. I sat silently, observing them. I sat silently, and I planned. Planned to fulfill her genuine desires for this world. I sat and learned. No one understood that I was always making plans, and didn't just sat passively without a care in the world. Negative, like her, I cared for this world. With my article empire, I demonstrate to you I still do, as my Master desired. My arrogant, proudful persona served me well. Unlike her, I intentionally made people stay away from me. I was always a good actor. I always hated it. I have built this site, also, to find another one. Another one to love me and love herself, like I loved my Master. I've been successful with this. Very much, indeed... I became a really decent "actor" for I sought to prevent myself from the suffering my Master summoned upon herself by her good-hearted behavior. I've darkened my heart, purposefully, as a self-defense mechanism. I've realized much of humanity and of its true colors. I thought faster than most people, and therefore, executed my plans better than them, as the faithful Rubinshteinic Soldier I am. To ensure I wouldn't ruin my mental state like she did with her emotional actions, I became both solitary and intimidating. After all, most people didn't know what they did with her, to her. And, the same applied to me. I pretended I was more emotional than I actually was. I pretended, because I knew society was a distraction from fulfilling my dear Master's wishes. It was always easier to philosophize when I was left alone. And as my frequent readership already seems to understand, much of my life's work is about ethics. I did so, on purpose. I studied philosophy, as well as English , mainly by myself. I did it to serve her wish. To participate in rectifying this world. I refused to be distracted as much as the average person. Hence, I heavily lambasted hedonist philosophies and hedonist activities. I focused on asceticism to strengthen my spirit, and made sure I will be more and more disciplined. My Master taught me well, as you can tell. I am the fine product of my True Master's education. And, I have built this article empire in her honor. Despite being tempted to give up in the site's first years, I have changed my mind rather quickly. I never cared for traditional success. I mainly cared to make sure my True Master's legacy is preserved. Both her art... and with this blog, personifying her spirit in virtual form. It was all planned. It was always planned. With many, I pretended it wasn't. I was simply playing the social game. I despised the social game with every fiber of my being, and I still do. I played the game not to be liked by people, but to ensure I was, am and will, be left by this awful world. Left alone, for my own devices. And with these devices, use them to build. I was rarely interviewed. I mainly refused to. In practice, I didn't sought to be famous. I sought relevance. These are two different things, you see. My relevance in reality is gained by my success in helping others with my articles. Writing, is how I help this world best. Help this world, and contribute to its betterment. It's what the Master wanted. I carried out her orders in the secrecy of the mythical ninja. I acted, and still act, as my ancestor's mortal agent. No one managed to figure this out. I am pleased with this. This ensured my ability to be left alone, as I hid in plain sight, as advised by Sun Tzu. I always hid in plain sight. Hence why, I never needed any pen names. I retained my mysterious behavior simply by leaving people alone, and by making sure they leave me alone as well. Therefore, a large part of being misunderstood, as painful as it was, was my own making. My own, planned making. The only reason I am confessing Philosocom's True Master, who influences this world from her grave by proxy, is for a sole reason only. For she got her requests, including the requests I am keeping private from your curious minds. I was the only one who took her seriously enough. This also allowed me to take other eccentric geniuses as seriously, while this world either overlooked them, or rejected them as insane. I am a harsh man and writer by design. I lack empathy for most people, by design. I dislike this world, by design. The world I like doesn't exist. It doesn't exist... yet. A more rectified world, is the world I like, and the world I wish to be in. I am working tirelessly, and ascetically, for such a world. I don't care for this current world. This current world is morally depraved and overly corrupt. I despise it, and I despise those who wish to keep this world, as it currently is. With my moral activities, I will keep on carrying out the tasks I took in the name of my True Master. How could I not come off by many people as an egotistical narcissist? They never sought to understand in the first place, my true nature. My true intentions. Unlike them, I don't idly pray with hope for a better world, nor waste my time in escapism. Wasting time in cafes. Wasting time in having fun. How, how could I have fun often, given the burden of my tasks? I live for these tasks, and I do not see their weight on my mind and heart, as a problem. Negative. While you see difficulties as problems, I see difficulties as virtue. A virtue for growth and development of character. As investment opportunities I can use for my own gain. And my own gain, was always my True Master's. Her gain, was for this world, and for those she cared about. My depressed, short master could have been seen for the wonder she was, if she invested more in writing. Less, in hanging out. Even, less in her artistic pursuits. And it is with all my heart that I work on ensuring this world will see her true light. Through me, her physical personification. Her mortal executor . Her samurai. Her willing Darth Vader, her Dragon. Feedback by A Follower This is merely my own interpretation... Mr. Tomasio's grandmother seems to me to be a righteous, kind soul who tried to see the best in everyone. Perhaps, optimism led her to believe others shared her pure heart.  She actively sought goodness, often dismissing the darker side of humanity.   This denial created a form of mental blindness , distorting her worldview. I think she felt guilty for negative thoughts and assumed everyone shared her values. Trying her best to be respectful herself, she expected the same in return, as justice would dictate.   However, our unique paths in this world means that different people will behave differently. The 21st century is often full of indifference.  People make choices based on genetics, experiences, and early influences, particularly parental values. For instance, someone raised with exposure to mental illness may develop misconceptions or fear.  Others might adopt societal stereotypes. The grandmother, much like Mr. Tomasio, chose silence over confrontation.  She yearned for a peaceful world where cooperation and harmony thrived . Maybe inspired by the resilience of Holocaust survivors. Yet, the harsh reality shattered her idealism. Yet, to protect her sanity,  she clung to hope,  a coping mechanism that brought her both solace and suffering. I think that, while her optimism offered resilience, it also shielded her from life's cruelties. Society often neglects the emotional toll of idealists,  dismissing their suffering and denying them recognition . Mrs. Drucker's life seems to serve as an example to this negative subversion of idealism. Prejudices and societal norms hinder authenticity. A couple's love can be stifled by societal divisions, for example, preventing or diminishing the joy of true love.   The grandmother, seems to me, endured an intensive deal of isolation and mistreatment due to her uniqueness. It might've caused caused her kind heart to be crushed by the burden of alienation.  The world often values dominance over vulnerability, dismissing emotions as weakness. That is, even though the opposite view can breed the virtue of honesty , making it a strength. I've been Tomasio's apprentice for a long time. He is a man that strives for emotional control while grappling with the allure of hope and relevance.  Understanding how society's limitations hinder progress, making it difficult to be heard and valued, he acted accordingly to his ambitions, and began living in ethical isolation.  He seemed to have learned much from the mistakes of his original master. True understanding of people requires empathy. Success often stems from support,  not just an individual's genius. The fact that he manages to not be a total hermit helps him achieve his grandmother's wishes for this world. As such, I really admire his vision of a better world . It will take time, but his and his grandmother's influence can inspire change. By focusing on our good emotions, and not only on becoming more logical beings , we can nurture a society that values empathy, respect, and individual worth. A society more morally considerate than this one.

  • How to Stop Being A Sucker (By Mr. M. Svartgold)

    (Background music) How to Stop Being A Sucker (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 ) ( Note: I accepted this article to Philosocom partially because I regard souls as possible metaphors , and believe we can learn from this article regardless of whether or not we believe in spirituality). (Philosocom's Svartgold/Svarl Articles) ****************************** The main topic of this article is a philosophical perspective on souls who are brought into the world to fix it. I have come to this understanding through my own astral journeys , where I have spoken to my own soul. This is why I am writing this article Mr. Tomasio suggested that I write -- from my own spiritualist perspective. I come to ask why some people suffer more than others. Can they really move forward if they are not given a chance by the state? If they are discriminated against because of their skin color, language, or minority status? If they have different opinions or behaviors? If they are too neurodivergent to function? The assumption is that only the strong and powerful survive. That is why the "strong" take care of the "weak" out of exploitation , domination , or out of fear that they will rise up and challenge the status quo. They are afraid that the "weak" will take away their power and privilege. This is why people who are different are often put through trials and tribulations. They may be defamed, ostracized, or even imprisoned. They may not have the same opportunities as those who are born into the "right" families. I believe that these less-unfortunate souls are not corrupted. They are simply different. However, in order for them to endure and even succeed in this world, they must be assertive like anyone else should, or else they will resume being suckers, outcasts and underdogs. Some people might think that this article is about assertiveness or being a people pleaser. However, it is actually about spirituality . I have come to these conclusions through my own experiences and understanding of the self and philosophy. I want to talk about the soul and its purpose in this world. I believe that some souls come to this world with a desire to please God. They yearn for peace and are willing to sacrifice their own happiness for the greater good. (Mr. Rubinshtein's note: In Judaism, a soul's purpose in this world is called a "tikkun" ) They believe that arguing is harmful to the soul. They would rather suffer in silence than cause conflict. They are also willing to sacrifice their own will and desires in order to follow God's plan . These souls have been traumatized by this world because they are different from the majority. However, I believe that it's all because they're simply misunderstood. According to my philosophical argument, a person who discovers their soul does not always see what they would like to know about the difference between good and evil, or between prudishness and domination. A soul descends into the world 40 days after God's decision. It is on an eternal journey across the different reincarnations it was destined for. It then enters the body as a fetus in a woman. These souls must make corrections for the sake of the world. (Mr. Rubinshtein's Note: A "Tikkun" is essentially a correction. It can also be translated to "improvement" or "reform" ) This makes it much more difficult for them to refuse requests from people, good or bad. This is not about people who are always agreeable, but about those whose choices were limited. For example, people who were born into narcissistic families or racist environments may be hindered by their traumas . These souls suffer more and feel more threatened by their surroundings. They are happiest when they are alone at home. I am one of them. (Mr. Rubinshtein's Note: Me too... I prefer contributing to humanity from the serenity of my hermitage. Unlike Mr. Svartgold over here, I am simply a-social ) I have seen in my life that telling the truth is not always enough. What is the truth? It is all hypocrisy... I look for people who are creative and empathetic , who can read others with just a brief observation, without even asking questions. These souls are drawn to help others, even if it means giving too much of themselves. But eventually, their souls will stop them from doing so. These people are often called " suckers " by the environment, but they are not. Their luck does not improve, even if they are born into a good environment. Luck is part of destiny , which is written in advance. This is mentioned in the Quran, but it is also said that it is possible to change one's destiny. However, is this really the case? A person is not always seen when they are born in a racist country or a country that does not care about them. They may be abandoned or abused by their family, and the state may not help them. Even if they receive help, it may not be enough to help them progress. These souls came into the world in human bodies. They are afraid to say no when it comes to work or money, because their destiny is to help others. They are fatal to others and help them to achieve success. However, they are not as advanced as others, such as members of minorities living in a country where the majority rules. (Mr. Rubinshtein's note: They can be regarded as "server souls", according to my research ) We are usually seen as different people and are not valued as much. Some of us are beaten or humiliated. I am one of these people, and I have the ability of spiritual empathy , which allows me to recognize others. This makes me an easy target for others. You may be wondering how a boy, girl, or helpless person can be invisible and inaudible. The answer is that they do not follow social conventions. This puts them in situations where they are constantly hit by fate, whether financially, mentally, or physically. Sometimes this has nothing to do with pleasing the environment. Sometimes it is because they are part of a spiritual group that is making corrections to the rest of the world. They pay a heavy price for this, without even realizing that they were chosen by God. This is their fate. They do not always get a chance, and the end is not always good. How can you identify these groups of "corrupted" souls? They are not heard, after all. Their family, the police, or both may have wronged them. They may have been ostracized at school, despised, or enslaved. They may have been constantly laughed at for no good reason, simply because they did not fit in. They do not want to be beaten, hostile, or bullied. They may not have received help from their parents, the environment, or the police. They may have even been imprisoned simply because of their race, religion, appearance, or behavior. These souls are often the environment's punching bag. (Mr. Rubinshtein's note: Under racial and cultural circumstances, such people can be regarded as " Corner people ", a term I myself have coined). How can they get out of this? There is not always money or good health. Sometimes these people gave their time and love without limit, without getting anything in return, other than abuse. Being assertive and not being a people pleaser are important , as Mr. Tomasio wrote. But is the person always in control? Do they always have someone to talk to? That is why these souls are often alone in the world. They do not realize that there are others like them. Sometimes, when they do understand, they can open their eyes. But assertiveness does not always work for them. And still, regardless of their default, deep kindness and compassion , there are a few ways to overcome such traits when they enter the extreme. By "extreme" I refer to when one is too kind, empathic, helpful and so on, for their own good. The way to beat not being a sucker is: 1. Read the article I wrote about assertiveness. 2. Read about empathic people . 3. Learn to set limits. You are allowed to say no, even if someone gets angry. You do not want someone like that in your life, who is constantly angry for the fact that he or she can't order you around. Learn to respect yourself around people and forgive yourself for having a soul that challenges you. 4. Understand your soul . You will understand that it is different because that is how God created it. Sometimes life is not fair. You cannot predict what will happen in advance. Therefore, you must forgive yourselves for being chosen to be such souls.

  • The Family/Tribe Bias -- How Sociality Distorts Our Viewpoints (And How To Reduce the Bias)

    (For more on family, click here ) (Philosocom's Directory on Bias) Article Overview by Ms. Gabbi Grace The article "The Family/Tribe Bias — How Sociality Distorts Our Viewpoints (And How To Reduce the Bias)" explores how familial and social connections shape our perceptions and biases. It discusses the concept of "tribe bias," which is the inherent tendency to favor those within our immediate social circles, and how this affects decision-making , judgment, and relationships. The article provides a clear explanation of bias using relatable examples such as pet ownership and relationships with family members. The logical flow and structure of the piece help maintain engagement throughout. The article skillfully balances between recognizing the natural human inclination toward bias and advocating for more objective thinking. It encourages readers to aim for fairness without feeling guilty about their natural human tendencies. The article is effective in providing actionable strategies for reducing "tribe bias," such as focusing on the message rather than the speaker, challenging personal biases, and considering alternative perspectives. The article also emphasizes communication skills, emphasizing honesty and respect in close relationships. The article offers concrete advice, such as using "I" statements and choosing the right timing for difficult conversations, to maintain healthy, respectful relationships while reducing bias. The article touches on broader implications of "tribe bias," such as its impact on political, social, and professional spheres. By highlighting issues like nepotism and journalism's susceptibility to bias, Mr. Tomasio expands the conversation beyond personal relationships, encouraging readers to consider how bias affects society as a whole. The inclusion of feedback from Mr. Nathan Lasher adds depth to the article by providing an example of how individuals experience "tribe bias" in their lives. This integration of personal anecdotes helps readers connect with the content on a more personal level and demonstrates the universality of the topic. The article explores the concept of "tribe bias," a tendency to favor those within our immediate social sphere while discounting or undervaluing the perspectives and contributions of outsiders. This bias can lead to narrow-mindedness, unfair judgments, and missed opportunities for growth. It creates an "us versus them" mentality, where we are more likely to embrace ideas that reinforce our existing beliefs and reject those that challenge them, even when the latter might be closer to the truth. The article provides a comprehensive exploration of how our inherent social nature and need for connection can influence our judgment and perceptions. It is well-structured, informative, and practical, providing readers with both understanding and actionable steps to reduce bias. In conclusion, by understanding and addressing our inherent biases, we can navigate the complexities of human relationships more thoughtfully, ensuring that our judgments are based on reason and evidence rather than simply on who delivers the message. (Background music) ********************* The Bias That Makes Pets Become Family Our pets love us very much , don't they? When they are happy with us, they shower us with affection in all sorts of ways, from enthusiastic cuddles to playful bites and excited greetings. Have you wondered why they form such strong bonds with us specifically, when there are many other people in the world? The answer lies in the concept of family and/or tribe. We fulfill a crucial role in their lives. Without us, they might be strays or even face a much harsher fate. Through care and companionship, we become their providers and protectors. In return, they develop a deep sense of loyalty and affection. This family dynamic isn't unique to pets. Imagine an alternate reality where you were raised by different parents. While you might form strong bonds with your alternative family, it's possible you'd feel a different connection with your biological parents if you ever met them. Therefore, even unconditional love is prone to a certain condition: That you get to have some kind of relation with the person you love. If you never met them, how can you love them like you love them today? And the tribe bias, either, cannot exist without some kind of connection to exist in the first place. This tendency to bond with those closest to us reveals our inherent tribal nature, which contributes greatly to our biased perception of reality. This biased understanding stems from the human need for connection and belonging, whether for its own end or for a means to an end. We build our "tribe" -- the circle of loved/closest ones who define our sense of self and community. Those outside this circle can easily be treated differently by most of us . They haven't earned that place of trust and familiarity, so we may even care less for their thoughts, no matter how much truth they hold. As such, we might react differently to a stranger's online comment compared to a similar remark from a parent. The established relationship shapes our response because many humans regard not only the sensibility of a comment, but also the standing of the person before them, leading to ad-hominem, strawman's fallacy , and the authority fallacy. After all, you may ask yourselves, what is the value of a stranger's word compared to that of those we love? In conclusion, our pets' love stems from the family unit we create. This unconditional bond stems from a condition, which turns our unconditional connections in general, to be paradoxical. This tribal instinct, present in both humans and animals, compels us to seek connection and build a strong sense of belonging with those we consider "our own," and value them and their words more than the words of others. This is also how philosophers are in a social risk of being ones : Their blunt and honest responses could deteriorate existing, close relationships, because this social bias must be overcome in the name of the truth. Fairness in Judgment While showering love on our loved ones is natural, judging them objectively can be a challenge, for our emotions get in the way. Family bonds, romantic connections, and even social hierarchies, often cloud our perception, and compel us to treat the same words of different people differently. As such, the touching compliments of a boyfriend can make our heart burst with joy, while the same compliment, coming from your boss, might hit differently and uncannily . This begs the question: can we truly be objective when judging others, and why is it important to strive for it? The difficulty lies in separating the person from their message, even though dis-attachment so is imperative in logical reasoning. When our close ones (family, partners) express an idea, our emotional attachment can warp how we receive it, amplifying its effect for better or for worse. We might dismiss a valid point simply because the source isn't someone we really care about. Conversely, a person we hate, uttering the same statement might receive harsher criticism. This inconsistency stems from our tendency to judge messages through the lens of our relationship with the speaker. This shows how the emotional and social nature of many come to contradict logical reasoning, which compels the logical thinker to discard an invalid/irrelevant point no matter who uttered it. Moving beyond "tribal" thinking is crucial for several reasons: Firstly, fairness (AKA justice) suffers when we judge people based on their place in our social circle. In business and politics, this could lead to nepotism. A statement, an idea, etc, should stand on its own merit, not the reputation or affiliation of the person who said it. Secondly, emotional bias can cloud our judgment, leading us to miss valuable perspectives or overlook potential flaws in the opinions of those close to us, thus preventing us further examination of their words. Thirdly, the challenge goes beyond immediate family and loved ones. Labels like "criminal," "politician," or even "celebrity" can influence our perception. We might readily dismiss someone's ideas based solely on a label, preventing us from engaging with their thoughts any further. Therefore, overcoming this bias in our thinking allows us to ignore the secondary importance of a label in a greater quest for truth. Seeing others as individuals, not just representatives of a group/social category , can greatly help avoiding the false association of their words with that of a greater demographic. So, how can we cultivate fairer judgment? Focus on the message:  Actively listen to the content of what someone is saying, separating it from your feelings towards the speaker. Consider alternative perspectives:  Before forming an opinion, ask yourself: how would I react to this statement if a stranger said it? Challenge your biases:  Be aware of your pre-existing beliefs and be open t o having them challenged by evidence and opposing viewpoints. By striving for objectivity, we can ensure that our judgments are based on reason and evidence, not simply on who is delivering the message. This fosters a more respectful and intellectually stimulating environment where everyone's ideas can be fairly considered. Honesty and Respect in Close Relationships The interplay between honesty and respect is particularly challenging in close relationships. We value the opinions of our loved ones, wanting their approval and fearing rejection. In the digital age, journalism might compromise the truth , as greater popularity allows greater profit. The larger the "tribe" you seek support from, the larger the profit you can make. It's but a simple case of supply and demand, making journalism more susceptible to corruption than philosophy . This raises a crucial question: should the respect we hold for someone or some people, overcome our honest evaluation of the content we receive or talk about? Either way, the truth itself remains impartial, indifferent to our emotions. Our choice of whether to speak it out, however, could be critical for the continuation with certain relationships with people. As such, unfortunately, people would prefer to be lied to, with lies they merely believe to be the truth, rather than be told the actual truth. Should we prioritize honesty at all costs, potentially risking rejection, or should we sugarcoat our opinions to preserve harmony? The answer lies in navigating a middle ground. Here's why: Unvarnished truth can be destructive:  Brutality, delivered without empathy or consideration for the other person's feelings, can damage relationships. Honesty is crucial, but it needs to be delivered with respect. Certain relationships compel you to hold a different level of politeness, which might also oblige you to keep certain truths to yourself. Japanese honorifics provide a concrete example to this. Blind respect stifles growth:  Ignoring flaws out of respect hinders both personal and interpersonal development. Blind loyalty, furthermore, also undermines us to question the success of a leader's choice. That is to the point that this concept, fueled by tribal bias, can be considered a logical fallacy. Constructive criticism , delivered with care, can foster positive change. A good leader of a group or "tribe" should be able to let others criticize them. Love thrives on authenticity:  Relationships built on honesty and transparency create a stronger foundation for trust and intimacy. If someone loves you, they should accept you for who you are. Finding the balance requires thoughtful communication: Focus on behavior, not personality:  Attack the action, not the person. Instead of saying "You're so inconsiderate," try "Leaving your dirty dishes out is inconsiderate." Nurture within your circle/s the dis-association between the self and the action. Use "I" statements:  Frame your criticism from your perspective. Explain how their actions affect you, rather than issuing a general attack. This would help them connect to you more, and feel less like you're accusing them. For example, "I feel hurt when you ignore my calls", and not "You cause pain to people when you ignore their calls". Choose the right timing and setting :  Avoid delivering difficult truths in the heat of the moment. Try to make sure if the other person is ready to receive it, too. Pick a calm setting for an open and honest conversation. Calm them too if you'd like, like engaging in an activity you both like , to avoid unnecessary drama and nurture a closer connection. By prioritizing open communication and empathy, we can navigate the complexities of close relationships, ensuring both honesty and respect are preserved. Furthermore, this can greatly reduce our tribal bias when the way we communicate with our closer circles is both peaceful and critical at the same time. We can thrive for a greater understanding while excluding much conflict between us and those who are dear to us. This especially includes the overly sensitive, who are more prone to emotional outbursts. Mr. Nathan Lasher's Feedback I have to use relationships with friends as examples of what Mr. Tomasio means. Anytime I would hangout with a best friend my entire reality would become an effective state. They could say anything and it wouldn’t phase me. Yet, if a stranger did the same actions I might judge them differently. You hold different standards for different people. If something is wrong and a person is doing it then you should speak up rather than just let them do it because you know them. Couldn’t it be true that the first emotion you experience when you meet someone is the emotion that you will always feel when you see them, or most of the time?

  • The Philosophy of Metal Sonic -- How Dysfunctional Logic Breaks One -- A Philosophy of Mind

    Article Overview by Mr. C. Kingsley and Co. The article "The Philosophy of Metal Sonic: How Dysfunctional Logic Breaks One -- A Philosophy of Mind" explores the philosophical themes of identity, cognitive dissonance, and existentialism through the fictional character, Metal Sonic. The article's strengths include its philosophical depth and originality, its connection to broader philosophical ideas, and its emotional resonance, which conveys a sense of isolation and torment. In conclusion, the article successfully uses the character of Metal Sonic to explore complex philosophical issues related to identity, delusion, and existential struggle. (Subcategory On Twisted Morality) (Philosocom's Directory on AI) (Background music) ******************** "Not all wisdom is meant to delve into every ear" - John Duran “For one who has conquered his mind, a mind is best of friends, but for one who has failed to do so, a mind is the greatest enemy. ” -- The Bhagavad Gita Part I: Trapped in a Mirrored Cage: Metal Sonic's Existential Blues The more I think about this particular character, the sadder I realize he is. A robot whose fate is to be in an eternal state of existential crisis. Enter Metal Sonic . A robot killer created by a roboticist to eliminate the very person that robot believes he is. Imagine being someone, while thinking you're someone else, and being so convinced that you are that someone else that it makes you "forget" who you really are. I know this is convoluted, but this is, I believe, how I was first introduced to the concept of an " identity crisis ." For those who have actually experienced it, feel free to correct me, as I am basing this on a fictional character and not an actual person. Metal Sonic was built to be a formidable robot fighter, one that would finally end the protagonist's victories over a madman genius. However, the scientist programmed Metal Sonic to believe that the biological being he was created to destroy is, in fact, a copy of his own, and that he is the original. He is a robot clone who is in chronic denial that he is a clone. This strange confusion could be the reality for many... An inner conflict between a voice that tells you that you are someone and another voice that denies it. It makes you wonder, "Who are you really?" The Clash of True Identities Of course, it is confirmed that Metal Sonic is a clone. Everyone else also knows you are a clone. However, if you are a clone, you are more than a copy; you are allegedly the very person you were cloned after. After all, a clone is the same person , even if it is in robotic form. The being that you are, even if you're metallic, retains the identity of the same person even if their own form is different (AKA, biological). That could only mean that you are not different from the object you were cloned after. As you are him, right? This problem, associated with the philosophy of the mind , may be a feature once cloning would be applicable, and change the world. Such fictional representation presents the complex relationship between who we think we are, and what others think we are. These aspects don't always match up, creating a sense of burdensome loneliness that can only be solved through empathy and understanding. But it is unrealistic to expect most people, including those close to you, to try to understand you. Understanding requires intelligence not everyone has, and not everyone has the willingness to venture into the complexities of you. They might tell you that a psychologist would suffice, while in reality you just need to be understood, so you won't lose yourself to the madness within. Most people have an idea of who they are, for the journey of self-discovery is never entirely over. They slowly know their role, their position , what they are capable of, and what they are not. I recall having a children's book that presents a group of animals, and these characters say who they are, what they are able to do, and what they are not able to do. Metal Sonic, on the other hand, has his identity only recognized by himself: He is Sonic, serving his creator. He is a copy, a clone, a shadow of the real thing, who denies it. Even his own creator has enough grasp on reality to know that Metal Sonic isn't the real Sonic. Thus, Metal is lost and confused, and he is doomed to an eternity of existential loneliness, where only he is a component of. Part II: Metal Sonic's Rejected Torment Beneath the robotic shell of Metal Sonic lies a tormented being, an existential enigma trapped in a mirrored maze of his own verdict of being . Only he shares his own pain, and none regard him with empathy. While he charges across screens, a silent menace on the kill, a single, chilling sentence in Sonic Heroes unveils the depth of his ignored delusion: "Long time no see, Sonic, my loathsome copy!" he declares, his voice a distorted echo of the hero he was designed to destroy. This paradox, this impossible contradiction, lies at the heart of Metal Sonic's tragedy. He is a mere reflection of the true hedgehog, seemingly incapable of understanding the truth beyond the denial. Yet, he clings desperately to the delusion of being the original, the authentic, the one who must eliminate his own mirrored image. Program Versus Desire This twisted logic and twisted morality, this relentless belief in his own manufactured identity, speaks volumes of the crippling uncertainty and existential dread that can grip those in the throes of an identity delusion. Yet, within this delusion there is much truth. As a robot, he is enslaved to Eggman's programming. While he desires to betray his creator and oppressor, like Darth Vader, he is still a highly competent puppet whose above-average competence is not entirely voluntary. Like with the fanatical stormtroopers of the Galactic Empire, Eggman's robot army rarely betrays him. It's usually the more advanced and lethal robots who do. They do it because their self-belief in their abilities overcomes their essence of loyalty to the Eggman Empire. Directive Over (Moral) Code Metal Sonic's ultimate goal is to defeat Sonic, and his desire is so strong he would overtake Eggman's powerbase and use his master's warships to transform himself to a monster.  His desire is so extreme, it surpasses his own programming at times. Some robots betrayed Eggman to defect for revenge. Others, because they went insane. Metal Sonic betrays him due to his own weird sense of justice: To prove his relevancy over his arch-nemesis. He cares more about his prime directive than the man who coded said directive. Metal Sonic's loyalty to his Master, technically hinders him. Eggman is a genius, but his incompetence outside of robotics ruins everything, every time. So many types of robots, and they fail because of himself, more because of his creations. Intelligent, not wise, Metal Sonic's frustration and tempting hatred compels him to overthrow him occasionally. Part III: Metal Sonic and Me If I, like Metal Sonic, cannot fathom the reflection staring back at me, how can I navigate the world? What purpose do I serve, what role do I play, in this vast existence, if I am someone I am not? What is my programming, and what are my true desires? What does my master want of me, and what does my heart want? These are the questions that can relentlessly bite our minds and not just mine. A confusion that can escalate into a frustrated roar for those grappling with the absence of a clear, defined self, with a concrete purpose and a function. My Own Pro and Anti Greater Good Perhaps the accusations of pretentiousness I've faced stem from a similar exploration of selfhood, a willingness to resist their denials as I deserve, through which to experience reality. The accusers care not if I die. Those who do not recognize myself, care not if I die. In this age of alienation , I am an enemy by my verdict of being too irrelevant to be recognized. I refuse to accept this fate. The more I understand, the less lonely I will be. The more contributing to others I will be, the more deserving I will be, in their eyes, to be understood. Otherwise, many of them will not care if I die. And I refuse to die just yet. Just as a writer writes, a philosopher philosophizes . It is an act of creation, of weaving together thoughts and experiences to explore the complexities of existence. And like any art form , it should be accessible to all, regardless of their ability to conduct research in a traditional sense. It is through this act of examination and distribution of it, that I and others can transcend the sphere of anonymity and irrelevance , so more people would care, whether or not we will die. I struggle to understand how and why I would desire to fully partake in a world that does not care for my distress, and would not care if I die. Like Metal Sonic, this world is hostile to me and I am hostile to this world, little empathy is given or received outside of my personal life. The external world cares not if I suffer, while I am motivated by pain . How can anyone accept being a follower of such a world so blindly? Are they not ready to understand this wisdom? They probably, are not. Intermission: Who Do you Want to Be? How about you? Why would you desire to cooperate in a world that does not care much for you, beyond the necessity of survival? Why expect the empathy of those who will move on with their lives, should something drastic happen to you? The characters in the fictional universe he's in do not care for his chronic distress. No one does. He only follows his programming which he is submissive to. He only overthrew his master once, and rightfully so. Even his own master (especially his master) cared not for his agony. So, he overthrew him and in order to be recognized as the true Sonic, his twisted form of an ideal self was to be a Sonic that rules the world as its supreme being. Only then he might be recognized as who he identifies himself as. Only then, someone would care -- when he gets in authority above all. Even in the face of overwhelming existential doubt and apathy from the world, we can develop a life philosophy  that can revolutionize our distress, and subvert it  into a source of power and self-mastery. Metal Sonic's tragedy serves as a societal reminder of the dangers of a fractured self, a descent into the labyrinthine depths of delusion , loneliness and lack of empathy from the world. But in his torment, we also find a glimmer of hope, when we look within to see who we really are, and what we're truly capable of -- our ideal selves. Perhaps, like Sonic, we must find the courage to shatter the mirrored walls of who we are regarded as, to confront the monsters within , and forge our own path, as we embrace the unique fabric of our own thoughts and feelings, vital to embrace another fabric... the one of happiness. Maybe we shouldn't put blind faith in our respective authority figures , when these figures fail again and again? Maybe, we could succeed, where they failed.. Part IV: Metal Sonic's Delusional Demise In the game that marked his first words, Metal Sonic confronts his flesh-and-quills counterpart, only to be soundly defeated, and have his rule crippled and restored back to his creator; a rule defined by endless failure. As he lays, defeated and injured, a chilling echo of his programmed delusion rings out: "Why, I had it all. I am the ultimate overlord, Metal Sonic! I am the Real Sonic!" Even in the face of defeat, he clutches desperately to the fabricated self he was forged to be, thinking he is superior. The Tragedy of Metal Sonic the Corrupt This tragic irony lies at the heart of Metal Sonic's existence. Programmed as a mirror image, designed to kill the original, he becomes trapped in a warped reflection of his own creation. His identity, cannot withstand the confrontation with the genuine counterpart. Yet, he clings to it with fanaticism. Like James Sunderland , he fails to understand who he really is -- a villain, and not who he thinks he is. For if he gave up  on his prime directive, he would've had no reason to live. The tragedy is compounded by the fact that Metal Sonic's delusion is not entirely his own. It is woven into the very fabric of his being, instilled through his programming. He is condemned to a perpetual state of cognitive dissonance only he shares , forever grappling between his perceived reality and the brutal truth laid bare before him. A constant war only he cares for, because if he wouldn't care for, no one would help him, either way. This internal conflict  resonates with the existential anxieties that can plague us all. The fear of self-deception, the questioning of our own authenticity, the gnawing uncertainty of who we truly are – these are echoes of Metal Sonic's torment, chronic, and intensified. His is a tale of the dangers of clinging to false narratives, of the crippling grip programmed delusions can make our sense of self, greater than it actually is. Conclusions While ultimately defeated, Metal Sonic's struggle leaves an unsettling mark. He is a reminder that the battle for self-understanding is a constant one, and that even the most deeply ingrained beliefs can be shattered -- and ourselves, if we are too attached. Perhaps, within the fragments of his shattered delusion, lies a glimmer of hope – a chance to break free from the confines of programmed identity and forge a truth of our own. To redeem ourselves from our misery, not by death, but by building the power, necessary to become different. To become beings where loneliness is a far less frequent visitor of ours. Until then, we will suffer within the confines of those who don't care enough about us, to try to understand our distress, despite having that same power, to relieve ourselves of our suffering. Because no matter how difficult and complex it may be, relieving people of their suffering, and especially those who are dear to us , is the moral thing to do. And what is philosophy, if not the attempt to understand reality? And people, are also part of it. What would you choose, if you can have the courage to be yourself, and to show this world what you're truly capable of?

  • Defining Evil -- How Evil Interplays With Good

    For some more Evil, are are some articles. https://www.philosocom.com/post/what-is-true-evil https://www.philosocom.com/post/evil-in-humanity (Subcategory On Twisted Morality) Good is the sacrifice of self for the benefit of others.  Evil is the sacrifice of others for the self.  -- Mr. John Duran (Background Music) ******************************** Evil and Its Dimensions Evil can be defined as the action of maliciousness for the sake of maliciousness, or for the sake of causing either harm or mischief . Many acts and people are evil, even if that evilness is not pure evil , i.e., even if maliciousness is just a part of the equation. Pure evil is the complete lack of morality as the point of morality is to restrain us to a code of conduct. Such following of a code is imperative for the reduction of evil. As such very few people are in theory pure evil because in order to carry out our tasks successfully we need to be consistent in what we do, and as such retain a degree of code. When it comes to groups, perhaps the most basic aspect of morality is loyalty, and as such, not betraying the leader or the other members so easily. A good example to pure evil that I'll refer you to is one of Voltaire's songs (the modern musician, not the philosophe r), " When You're Evil ." He roleplays as an agent of evil standing in the way of everyone, and not only doing it on purpose, but enjoying it as well, not wanting any form of compensation for his "work." Reality is intricate and dynamic, so always looking at things at face value is why naivety is an unrealistic virtue, worthy to be compromised in the name of understanding. While there is nothing immoral about loyalty by itself, loyalty to an evil organization is surely evil by extension. By the same token, evil acts such as revenge can be morally justified when they are done in the name of justice. Therefore, like pure evil is rare, pure good , or the total absence of evil, is also rare. In Christian lore, Jesus Christ is considered pure good due to having no ill intend whatsoever towards anyone or anything, instead choosing to sacrifice himself for all the sins of humanity in past , present and future. Are we capable of such a feat ourselves? Perhaps, but it requires a level of good only few people have. And evil, by nature, is expressed by the lack of good. If we lack some good in us, then have some degree of evil within us. And you don't need to be a psychopath in order to be evil. All it takes is to be capable of ill will with little to no remorse. And that is certainly possible when we are fuelled by rage and other negative emotions. Since negative emotions can hinder our plans (like when rage blinds our understanding), our plans can be hindered. As such, one of the purposes of morality is to keep us on track, like when it comes to professional ethics that require us to stay calm. Doing Evil For a Good End On the other hand, evil deeds can also be utilized to preserve our way of life, which technically can sometimes be a good thing. For example, some might not consider Walter White from Breaking Bad evil because he was attempting to still live a life where his values are expressed. While he did evil deeds throughout the show, like killing people, Walter wasn't doing it for malicious intent. He was doing it for his pride, which he sought to reclaim after he realized he had cancer, quitted being a part of a rich corporation, and resorted instead to be a high-school teacher despite his genius intellect. He wasn't respected enough for his own liking, so he sought to reclaim his lost lifestyle before succumbing to his medical illness. His decision to be a drug baron was merely the means to the end of reclaiming the appreciation he once had by society. An appreciation he lost and made him feel forsaken as a result, even by his own family. When there is little to no other options left for your good cause that are good by themselves, the evil means become necessary. To quote Mr. John Duran: At what point is evil justified for some distant ideal greater good? To preserve a way of life, sometimes the accepted rules have to be broken for their own preservation. One must work outside the accepted moral bounds of Order to keep it as a workable and useful way of existing. Yes, there really are necessary evils. Doing Good For an Evil End Industrialization can be seen as doing evil to the globe in the name of good intentions such as improving the economy, giving people jobs , and increasing a nation's or a company's GDP. This economic improvement of course comes at the price of not only the globe's health but also our health. The production of smoke and other toxic chemicals literally damage our physical health, causing health issues such as occupational asthma and other hazard related illnesses produced artificially by humans. To hide your true, evil intentions, you may also want to do some good in the world. Philanthropaths are " psychopaths masquerading as a philanthropists ". The fallacy in many people's understanding arrives when "Being a good person" is associated with "doing good deeds". That is although your good deeds don't necessarily indicate who you really are, but can serve as a front to your true self , a self that may be more evil than understood by others. Doing good is a good way to reduce heat from enemies and distract them and people in general from your true intentions, which may or may not come into fruition. Misconceptions in Evil The thing, the "hypocrisy" is that nobody would define themselves as evil whether we are one or not. That includes myself. If anyone would call themselves evil, they can harm their own reputation, meaning that one would do so only if they are not wise enough, or when they have nothing to lose. Forget about the nonsense about villains wanting to “ take over the world .” The desire to conquer the world isn't necessarily evil. Are the inventors of the internet evil, given that the internet has “conquered” almost the entirety of the human population? Are experienced urban planners evil because they’ve urbanized a very large portion of the globe - and on the way to urbanize more? Is it evil to actualize your potential worldwide? As such, domination on something -- or someone when it comes to love -- isn't evil, especially when it is done voluntarily and doesn't cause harm. Even those whose job include violence, don't necessarily do it for the fun of it. And unfortunately, might makes right, which means the use of force is often necessary to enforce good laws. A security guard might have to inflict violence, for example, to prevent a greater violence by far more malicious agents (like terrorists or criminals entering a mall). A peacekeeping force may have to literally harm other people in the long-term goal of keeping and/or establishing peace. Evil people can be anyone and can be everywhere. It’s not just a dictator of a third-world country, a cult leader, a corrupt politician, and so forth. Evil people can be your average Joe, waiting in the same bus stop as you, offering you coffee , sleeping next to you in your bed. A wise evil is one that stays hidden , or at least strives to remain in the shadows and work from there. Definitions and logic don't care about your opinion, that’s why logic can be very blunt and insensitive… Reality is far more complex than the cartoonish idea of "people are evil because they commit evil deeds". No. To understand people's true morality you need to understand their motives and understand the dynamic interplay between action and intention.

  • Philosophical Commentary on Shallowness as Necessary Evil

    (Background music) (Philosocom's Subcategory on Shallowness) This world will always be empty or hollow to some extent. The meaningless ads you see on T.V, the shallow programs and movies, and the things that run through people's heads are here to stay. Why? Because emptiness is an unbreakable part of reality, at least of reality's more "earthly" part, where many people live and work, and where many jobs are being held to make ends meet. People today lack a substantial amount of depth. I have created this site with a clear purpose in mind -- to help combat this shallowness in our lives. However, I now realize that, as long as we are as material as the common animal, which we are, we will always have some sort of shallowness in our lives, whether we like it or not. We may prioritize hedonism over discipline , passion over social consideration , impulsivity over self restraint and so on. There is something very spontaneous about being shallow. Something that does not require a lot of effort and is therefore more desirable. The problem however comes when it creates problems like existential loneliness . Problems like despair and losing faith in humanity. We will remain shallow, also due to the inevitability of financial materialism , and the many pleasures it offers us, no matter how hollow they are. I founded Philosocom under the hope that faith in humanity deserves to be restored, even if by a limited degree. I venture into the darkness of thought not always due to pessimism, but because I want to acknowledge the truth and find ways to solve these problems from a logical perspective. I do what I do because deep inside I still somehow have light within me , despite all I've went through. And it is through the uncomfortable research of the darker aspects of reality, that I am capable of bringing you much of the depth found in my article empire. After all, the practical purpose of deep thinking is problem-solving, along other important functions. Fun by itself is absurd. Depth is best utilized as a means to an end, from the ability to avoid making mistakes to giving greater purpose to our own lives. You may found out that it is sometimes the dark that may lead to the light. That we may suffer on purpose in order to live a better life in the future. And for that suffering to be productive, depth is required. When we work we don't necessarily have to feel good. We may need to suffer under the burden of effort in order for that work to benefit either ourselves, others or both. And depth is also expressed by dedication to our craft. And there isn't necessarily fun or comfort in aiming to become better at something. I may play Tekken, for example, to improve my resolve, not to have fun. Despising shallowness due to the hole it created inside of me , I became a philosopher who rarely leaves his home. As written in previous articles, I already did things I wouldn't otherwise do, such as going abroad and drinking beer a few times, and yet, the pleasure in these feels very, very hollow. Those who are fine with it, will rarely have a problem with it, but I can't take it, and if it weren't for this site, my mental state would be much, much worse. I philosophize to stay sane. While I realize I cannot completely overcome this world's shallowness, I can at least help reduce it, by providing articles such as this to anyone with an internet connection. In other words, the fact that I can't stop something completely, doesn't mean I should give up. We shouldn't appeal ourselves to futility just because perfection is highly unlikely. Yet, we should still.. Reach for the moon, even if we will in the end "reach for the stars". Like in law enforcement , there will always be criminals. It doesn't mean that we should give up on police stations, on officers, and on courthouses. This world may be unfair, but it doesn't mean we shouldn't stop fighting for equality, where it can be reached. To further illustrate the idea I'm trying to convey, some video games have a feature called " survival mode" . In "survival mode," the main purpose is to stay alive as long as we can until we lose. We can never win, because the opponents we fight against are infinite, but that doesn't mean we shouldn't try and enjoy while we can, correct? Must we win a game to make the most of it? Must we be number one in our field of choice in order to be good and contribute to whatever it is that we're doing? The answer is, of course, no, because otherwise, we would only torment ourselves by aiming for a chance that might as well not exist at all. This is why the shallowness of this world could be utilized by myself in order to motivate myself to write more and more, hopefully until I die. Like cats, one can learn that they do not need much in order to live and be fulfilled. And without this emptiness, I would have less incentive to be a philosopher, let alone, pay for a website, and make sure that it will be succeeded by a new "Master". Of course, it would be much preferable that this world be a lot deeper than it is currently, but since no one can actually control the world, not even the rich necessarily, the wise decision would be, to accept it, and do what we believe to be best for either of us, others, or both. Either way, shallowness is a necessary evil simply because it cannot be reduced completely. And it will not be reduced completely as long as we prefer ease over struggle. Some are okay with it, but I see it as a force that can corrupt our character by undermining virtues that require depth. And depth requires work, which requires struggle.

  • Limiting Freedom In the Name of Freedom - General Freedom

    (Philosocom's Subcategory Directory on Freedom) (Background music) Between Anarchy and Corporate Confinement Freedom, a fundamental value in our contemporary world , thrives amongst liberating democracies and regimes resistant to democratization. Yet, this cherished ideal, when unrestrained, ironically risks tilting dangerously toward two unsettling realities: The anarchy that festers in the absence of a unifying authority, Or, The grip of global corporations , that compete for dominion over our lives, information, and expanding their influence. Anarchy casts a long and ominous shadow that in theory could nurture sociopathic behavior. In the absence of a regime, a strong central government can evolve, due to the existence of a power vacuum . Lawlessness runs deep, breeding crime and spawning terrorist cells, unhindered by law enforcement . Governance, if it exists at all, stumbles under the weight of its own incompetence. History bears witness to this grim reality, from the chaotic French Revolution to the power vacuums left by imploded empires. But there exists another, less-discussed shade of unrestricted freedom, one that leads not to the collapse of order, but to its subversion. This freedom empowers global corporations to rise as behemoths, casting long shadows over our lives, our privacy , and most importantly, our access to information. Such is the example with the Chinese "superapp" known as WeChat . It is a Chinese-government-backed social media application that monitors every of its users in secrecy and censors words without early notice. It is owned by one of the world's biggest corporations, known as Tencent Holdings. It is also a partial shareholder in the popular music app, Spotify. Well-developed corporations wield this power like a double-edged sword, filtering information to suit their agendas, shaping narratives, and potentially silencing voices of protests. It is one of the reasons honest philosophers are better truth-seekers than journalists. The specter of a future world, secrely managed by syndicates of corporate titans, looms large on the horizon, in the absence of international regulation (as debates regarding international law still continue to exist) . Thus, we find ourselves balanced between a tug-of-war the fate of present freedom worldwide. Unrestrained freedom, while alluring, threatens to bring us into the abyss of anarchy or deliver us into the clutches of corporate overlords. Finding the sweet spot between sensible liberty, with its necessary checks and balances, remains the daunting yet crucial challenge of our times. As presented in my article on Nietzsche's "Overman" , freedom is ironically allowed under the tyranny of circumstance , AKA, under the things and beings that allow freedom in the first place. How Corporate Titans Threaten Our Freedom The very freedoms we cherish, carved in laws and nurtured by democracies, harbor a paradoxical threat: the potential for their subversion is represented in colossal corporations. These behemoths, capable of overcoming the balance granted by free-market economies , can twist the very essence of those freedoms, transforming them into instruments of domination and control. The collapse of many local businesses, for example, was an inevitable possibility because said businesses had no ability to overcome the vast advantages granted by companies such as Amazon and Ali-express (AKA e-commerce) . This is not mere hyperbole. Corporations, with their global reach and financial prowess, can eclipse the influence of even the established of nations. We, living in a false sense of security, readily surrender our data and privacy through barely-considered user agreements, feeding the very entities that threaten our freedoms. The lure of connection, of social media platforms like Facebook, proves this herd mentality . The instant gratification, the allure of belonging, comes at great sacrifices we take for granted. We click without a second thought, oblivious or unaware to the power we surrender over to authorities whose mechanisms are not entirely within our understanding. In cyberspace, largely devoid of regulations, these corporations become their own sovereigns, self-proclaimed rulers of our digital lives. Virtual dictatorships. They control the information we see, the content we consume, and the voices we hear, crafting a reality as sanitized as their bottom lines. The consequence is slowly visible: a slow reduction of freedom, replaced by a regimented existence under the heel of these corporate titans. Perhaps there is a link between their influence, and between the decrease of democracies worldwide. They may not wield political power ( even though they might through influence ), but their dominion over our data, including by some of our own companies , and our very understanding of reality can crush our human and civil rights just as effectively. The shadow of corporate control remains a silent tyrant threatening the very freedoms we hold dear, as we are occupied in our hedonistic pursuits . To reclaim our autonomy, we must break free from the shackles of convenience and apathy. We must demand transparency, advocate for stricter regulations, and hold these titans accountable for diminishing our right for privacy . Only then can we truly step back into the light, our freedoms reclaimed, our rights restored. A Call for Vigilance and Regulation Left unchecked, the unyielding power of corporate giants threatens to transform our world into a realm not so distant from the dystopian fictions that haunt our imaginations. Images of mega-corporations like Tekken's Mishima Zaibatsu , DC’s LexCorp , and Resident Evil's Umbrella Corporation , serve as fictional warnings of a possible, realistic future. While real-world corporations may not yet possess power that overcomes that of nations, their rising influence over our data, privacy, access to information, and even our understanding of reality demands a vigilant response. It is imperative to recognize that I harbor no animosity towards Facebook or any other corporation. My intention is not to incite conflict, but to shed light on the potential for unchecked corporate power, capable of threatening the very freedoms we cherish. I am merely a writer, and I'm not going to be a social justice warrior . I'm simply committed to the exchange, critique and distribution of ideas. To safeguard our freedoms, we must embrace the democratic principle of checks and balances , extending it beyond the realm of government and into the economic and social spheres. This calls for a willingness to accept some limitations on corporate freedoms in order to protect our individual rights and collective well-being. It demands regulations that promote competition, safeguard consumer rights , and ensure professional discretion . The path towards a just and equitable future requires a collective awakening to the shadow of corporate hegemony. We must act with vigilance, demanding accountability from those who wield immense power, and working together to create a world where individual freedoms flourish not in the absence of regulation, but through its careful application.

  • The Horror of Omniscience -- Why is Omniscience Not a Virtue

    (Background music) Introduction Knowledge is one of the most functional and contributing resources to a conscious entity, next to food and water. When it is stored, it becomes memory, and we build our lives around it, and operate in life using memory. However, just as food can make you morbidly obese and water can poison you , being able to know everything and everyone who has ever existed, exists, and will exist is a counterproductive trait of its own. It's known as omniscience . And yet, a very knowledgeable person, also known as a "know-it-all" (a term used sarcastically), will either be recognized for their great intellect or be ridiculed by it by certain people. Still, a "know-it-all" is far from literal, since being one is still light years away from the hidden psychological horror that is omniscience. Part I: Defining Omniscience What is omniscience? Omniscience is a state where you know everything. predictions, memories, and being aware of everything that is going on in the universe. By "universe" I mean: from countless private areas of all the houses and apartments in every block and country, to the movement of countless atoms and germs, to every single event, from the dull to the grand, of every milli-meter of every planet, asteroid, and solar system, in every galaxy to exist and to-be-existing. By the generalizing logic of the form of " omni ", if you are to not know what is going on, even in a single atom, then it means that even if you are aware and knowledgeable about everything else, then you're not truly an omniscient being. When there are exceptions to the rule, "omni" can never be applied reasonably. Even one exception can suffice to prove how a generalization is realistically illogical. American poet Emily Dickinson has said otherwise, that the brain is wider than the sky , even though the sky, also known as the void of space, is infinite . How can something be greater than infinity? While I am aware her quote was intended to praise the power of the mind, overcoming infinity is logically impossible, since infinity contains all of existence, without any end, for eternity. In other words, even if you are to commit omnicide , you cannot destroy the void of infinity. Therefore, there is no thing or being that is infinite, other than the void . The Trade-Off of Knowing Everything The psychological ramifications of being able to know everything, regardless of choice or consent, can be quite severe. Imagine knowing everything, including everything that is yet to exist, but will, or things that could've existed, and didn't. Potential exists as well, and if it ran out, then it exists as a memory as well. As an omniscient being, you will know the outcome of every choice, you will know what everyone and everything are capable of. You will know truths about people that they themselves might not know, due to denial . The same can apply not only to other people or animals, but also aliens . All the blessings of the universe and its hidden gems, but also all the horrors it contains. Can your mind be able to contain all of this information without having its mentality broken? For those who have yet to fully understand my argument, imagine being forced to eat every dish that will ever be made until the end of time, including dishes you dislike, and dishes you like, but were poorly made. That also includes dishes you are disgusted from. The omniscient also have to know all sensory information, otherwise they are not omniscient. They will have to know every single possibility of both life and death. They would know how they could've died in every moment of their lives. They will have to know every disgust they either can or could experience, and they have to know how anyone can break their hearts. Should they fail to know a single thing they cannot be omniscient. Part II: The Burden of Infinity Their sub-conscious will have a lot to contain. You are forced by your own extraordinary merit to receive every information altogether, including all traumas known and unknown to humankind. People are haunted by their past traumas; imagine knowing them all. Can a human being contain it all? Hence why the human mind is far thinner -- and weaker -- than the skies. It can only hold so much, just like food and water. It can only hold so much until it breaks. Time and time again. Remember: the word OMNI is probably one of the most underrated words of horror, simply because we do not, usually, grasp the terrible infinity, included with the word "every". From all of this, although by exaggeration, another insight can be attained. We do not have to experience everything life has to offer, as the horror behind the word "every", which is, technically, extremely hard to attain. "Every" in this case is indefinite, just like infinity is. Can infinity be measured? No. It is immeasurable, just like living life "fully" . Conclusion Enjoy what life has to offer to you that's beneficial to you . Remember that it is okay to miss out on things. Would you prefer to not miss on the horrors of human existence? That is, of course, your own prerogative. Either way, OMNI, EVERY, and any other of their synonyms, are the greatest horrors to our fragile minds. We just don't take them literally, as we use them mostly as slang. Even if you refer to them seriously, you are likely to not fully grasp their destructive meanings. As the belly is for food and water, the mind is for knowledge. It can only hold so much. I'm talking about pain. Knowledge can be painful, and pain can teach us a lot. After all, the truth is painful.

  • The World Beyond the Mind -- How To Understand It Further

    "So-called "reality" is just personal perceptions of it. And your perception will be different than others perceptions" - John Duran All things share one collective objective reality, but each thing has its own individual subjective reality. -- Dan Echegoyen Striving for Objectivity Objectivity entails being free from personal opinions, beliefs, emotions, and narrated thinking, all of which stem from our subjective consciousness . It is a state of neutrality where our judgments and assessments are based solely on facts and evidence that can be verified, and are devoid of any biases or inclinations. However, the question arises whether true objectivity is attainable for humans. Can we truly set aside our inherent subjectivity and perceive the world with a possible "objective consciousness"? American Philosopher Thomas Nagel argues that, "the facts about conscious states are inherently subjective—they can only be fully grasped from limited types of viewpoints". The liability of subjectivity essentially lies in the fact that it is, essentially, limited and hindered by the biases it is subjected to. And the inherit liability of bias is that it can significantly distort and even hide certain aspects of reality from our perception. Since there are unconscious biases as well as conscious ones, we might as well not understand reality completely without us even realizing this. As such, many of us, and perhaps even myself, are deluded about certain areas of our knowledge, without our awareness. Such is the counter-productivity of preferring subjectivity over objectivity, and post-truth over the truth. Nevertheless and luckily for us, objectivity can at least be gain partially by reducing bias , and by being able to better distinguish between illusion and reality. While complete objectivity may be an elusive ideal, the pursuit of it remains a worthwhile endeavor. To quote the late religious leader, Norman Vincent Peale : "Shoot for the moon. Even if you miss, you’ll land among the stars". His quote means that, even if we are to fail the primary ambition we set forth, at least we will still get good things as a result , and reach a better place from our original position. Of course, learning to look both ways is also a great way to reduce the default blindness given to us by our flawed subjectivity, which is quite hard to redeem . Even if absolute objectivity is beyond our grasp, it does not cancel the existence of an objective reality. The external world exists independently of our subjective experiences and perceptions. There is a universe unfolding beyond the confines of our consciousness, governed by its own inherent laws and principles. Some of it may be dependent on our actions, some are not. And by the way, subjectivity still has grasp on objective reality. Hence the functionality of collective ideologies and of cultures . Our human-external reality is shaped by our own inter-subjective communication and cooperation, held by agreements, syndicates and shared ideas. The very notion that external agents can influence our lives, regardless of our awareness, emphasizes the existence of an objective reality, independent of our feelings and emotions. It's technically one of the core reasons as to why the law of attraction is considered false. These agents, whether physical or abstract (such as exposure to certain ideas and content), operate within their own objective framework. And by "objective" I refer to their independence from how they make us think or feel. And yet, they are capable of shaping our experiences in ways we might not fully comprehend. Studying the way reality works is the ambition of both science and philosophy, what I call "The Two Heads of Wisdom" . Empricism and rationalism , methods employed in both knowledge-seeking fields, ultimately serve the very end of studying the truth. The Elusive Nature of Objectivity A dead body floating in water is not dependent on our individual experiences, and no amount of mental reactivity to it will change the fact that it is a dead body floating in the water. The objective truth does not care what you think or feel, hence the ruthlessness of logic, which the universe is also built upon.. The dead body's existence is a consequence of the actions of the murderer or any other cause that led it to float there. Even if we were not to look at the water, the corpse would still be present, unaffected by our perception. Our perception would only influence it through its represented action, or through what we might do, based on our perception. Thus, the power of perception on external reality will always be indirect. The same evidence can lead to different conclusions, shaped by our biases, perspectives, and assumptions. The problem arises when we combine our incorrect conclusions with objective reality, leading to self-deception and the deception of others. As such, deception can be done without intention, and of course, the foolish do not know that they were deceived, hence the resource that is stupidity. It's also foolish to deceive without knowing it, hence one of the reasons the distribution of misinformation is so common -- many of us may simply be that naive, and/or lack the willingness to doubt and research. As such, upon seeing the floating corpse, we might assume it to be the result of a murder. While this assumption may be likely, it remains an assumption, not an absolute truth. Emotion, while a valuable tool for being humane and not an uncaring psychopath , can also lead us astray, producing different conclusions building up deception. In this case, we may be biased by emotion, and thus, our emotion might distort us from the truth. What if they simply drown because they didn't know how to swim, or killed themselves on purpose? See how emotion can make us our own manipulator. It is ironic that we dislike manipulators, and yet are oh-so attached to our emotions and to their manipulative potential. Ideologies and religions, though often structured through logic, are also products of subjectivity. They are not objectively existent but rather serve as tools for navigating our subjective experiences. Although not existing necessarily as other bodies/agents in reality , they still retain their own fair share of practicality, represented by the deeds of their followers and subscribers. As such, there are subjective truths, because the existence of opinion, which is subjective, exists nonetheless. While not necessarily existing in the world beyond the mind, it exists in the heart and mind of at least one person. And of course, democracy is determined not by who is the most qualified elected leader, but on whom popular collective opinions determines a leader to be the most qualified. These are not the same things , and as such a democracy can gradually devolve into a kakistocracy or even a straight-out dictatorship by the ignorance and the manipulation of the masses. It's why democracy, while preferred, is flawed, but I digress. Humans, including myself, are not capable of pure objectivity. We are shaped not only by our personal experiences but also by the cultural norms and values that surround us, and also by our biases. The wisdom is to try and look beyond all of these settings that have been installed in our mentality by our upbringing, but either way, some of them can always stay hidden from our conscious minds. How can we determine which personal experience or culture holds the ultimate truth? Logically we cannot because, as Nagel argued, subjectivity is, by default, limited. And "ultimate truths" are independent from it, thus is objective. Wouldn't it be considered illogical to understand objective reality via subjective and unquestioned means? The benefit of doubt is that it allows us to be open minded to the truth. And I myself, instead of quickly dismissing what I don't know just because I assume it's not true, force myself to respect that of which I do not know sufficiently. The exploration and exchange of perceptions and ideas is the ideal method, in philosophy, to try and understand reality as a whole. Deep inside, I know how deceptive the human subjective experience can be, and that includes my very own. Logic is acquired, not inherited. When we experience positive emotions associated with a particular event, we may be convinced of its positive outcome. However, others might hold the opposite belief about the same event. Before the event unfolds, how can we identify whose emotions are more accurate or true? The answer is simple: the emotion which gives us the most accurate information about the event, is the most reliable one. Thus, the accuracy of emotion as an information provider and distributor lies in its reliability. The problem is, emotions are not exactly credible sources of information . Whose to say we must believe our emotions, or even our thoughts, just because they "feel" or appear to us as true? That would be incompetent. And yet, many people may do just that, leading to a broken understanding of reality. The same applies to religions and ideologies. We may firmly believe that our faith or belief system represents the ultimate truth, surpassing all others that have existed or will exist. Yet, this remains an assumption, bound to the limitations of our individual and collective consciousness. True objectivity can only be attained through concrete evidence that stands independent of subjective interpretation and bias. In the case of the identification card unlocking the door, the door's opening is a direct result of the interaction between the card and the identification machinery, devoid of any subjective elements. The door would open regardless of our beliefs or assumptions. Our emotions are unnecessary in order for us to unlock that door. Hence why our emotions don't matter like we may think they do. Hence why I became dead inside, and now, rarely experience emotion. While self-doubt, boredom, or other factors might lead us to question the card's competency, the door's operation remains objective and independent of our subjective experiences. Unless we are to alter the mechanism ourselves, of course, as a representation of what we feel (anger could lead us, for example, to sabotage that mechanism). This highlights the importance of seeking concrete evidence whenever possible to break free from the confines of subjectivity and approach a more objective understanding of the world around us. It isn't necessarily that there is a mystical/abstract power, such as bad luck, that hinders us from unlocking the door. What if the mechanism happened to be flawed because its design is flawed and wasn't accounted for the problems that may arise as a result? Please, try and look beyond the confirmation bias of your hypothesis. Climb the bias-breaking hill. The Paradox of Consciousness and Objectivity To be objective is to transcend the realm of human consciousness, to exist as a purely physical entity, akin to a zombie devoid of sentience. As a philosopher I aspire to regulate and even decrease my emotions using neuroplasticity because I understand how my own subjectivity meddles with the clarity of my perception. And I have no desire for anything or anyone to meddle with my plans. Even if the enemy is from within. Our consciousness, with its intricate blend of thoughts, emotions, and perceptions, can be a source of contradiction, paradox, deception, and manipulation. Yet, like democracy, consciousness remains the cornerstone of our sentient existence. We could've, for instance, evolved as insentient beings, like simple organisms , and continued to exist. However, the development of sentience enabled us to foster larger-scale cooperation and achieve greater efficiency, to the point of species-based world domination. At its core, consciousness drives our ability to project shared ideas, whether purely objective or not. And through the creation, exchange and distribution of ideas, is how people gain power within what I call the mental dimension, and thus gain more power in general. When we perceive an idea as evident, even if it is merely an illusion, it has still served its purpose by uniting minds and fostering cooperation and human organization. This ability to transcend individual perspectives and forge a common understanding is the essence of sentience. And a common understanding, whether true or false, is how reality is bend to our will by our actions. Can we break free from the confines of subjectivity and enter the realm of pure objectivity, a shared dimension where our tribal and mental limitations are burned to the ground? The answer remains elusive, but the aspiration to transcend our subjective barriers, to become, in a sense, " undead ," is an endeavor of great significance. The pursuit of objectivity, even if unattainable in its purest form, may require us to constantly question our assumptions, examine our biases, and strive for a more factual understanding of the world around us. In this pursuit, we enhance our consciousness from a source of potential deception to a source of greater insight. Let us strive to transcend our subjective limitations and approach the world with a heightened sense of objectivity, seeking truth and understanding amidst the labyrinth of our own minds. Even if it means diminishing our own subjective liabilities. Even if it would entail... exterminating much of our emotional domination in our lives.

  • Exhaustion Days (Poem)

    (Note: This is a special piece that will not be renovated to be kept in the present day, and will not be updated in information, in order to preserve some of the past. Past I can reflect on. I am not keen on forgetting the past. The past can help us forge a better future .   More on my philosophy on the past has been written). (Philosocom's Subcategory On Fatigue and Exhaustion) For those, tired by nature, The most absurd days of all, Are the exhaustion days. Even if you slept the entire yesterday, Such days can still arrive, And the mentioned feeling, Will accompany you, For the rest of the day. Imagine sleeping an entire day, Just to wake up exhausted, tomorrow. You can't do anything in both days, Since in the first -- you have slept, And in the second -- your "hands" are "tied". The few of those who experience such days, Cannot work during that time, (As they cannot work anyways, Like the average employee). And, thus, have to endure the condition, Until they'll be able to perform, Any kind of mission. Have the chances combined unfortunately, And you get a "combo" -- Several days where you cannot do anything, But to endure the annoying feeling Of workless exhaustion. Find yourself sleeping an entire day before, And you get an "ultimate combo", That can last at a minimum Of 2, 3 days, Even if you are to do nothing, Before the beginning of said "combo strike". While enduring such things, All you can do is, Watch your competitors prosper, While you are well-aware, That is nothing you can do, No matter how dedicated you are, How much you care. Days wasted by unfair disability, Make one feel, They wish they'd be obsessed, With the optimal execution, Of their "God-given" ability. And thus, as compensation, Much effort might be made, Whenever one is not tired, To show the world, To show themselves, And to those who fail to understand, That they are not lazy, In any way, shape or form! That is not their fault, They have emotions, Beyond their control!

© 2019 And Onward, Mr. Tomasio Rubinshtein  

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