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Article Synopsis by Mr. Chris Kingsley and Co. "The Meaning of Life, Rubinshteinic Edition" is a well-written and insightful article that explores the concept of life and its basic functions. Mr. Tomasio presents thought-provoking insights on the nature of existence and the search for meaning, challenging conventional beliefs and norms. The article emphasizes personal empowerment and agency, encouraging readers to take control of their lives and find purpose through personal choices and actions. The author critiques cultural constructs such as norms, rules, and religions as "shared illusions" created to distract from the perceived emptiness of reality. This critical stance encourages readers to examine the influence of external factors on their beliefs and values. The article also emphasizes the importance of continuous growth, emphasizing the idea that life is a dynamic journey. (Background music) To live is to breathe, eat, drink, sleep, and perform the rest of the functions of an organism, which are usually universal to all (with several exceptions) . This is the meaning of living. However, you can ask, "Why am I here?" Well, you are here because you were born successfully, and didn’t die, yet. That’s all to it, really. There is nothing really fascinating about the meaning of life when these truths are acknowledged. The rest of your life’s meaning is either up to you or dictated by your social norms. I believe that none of us can really see into the extremely distant past to the first point where humankind was first created or evolved. Furthermore, how can one truly trust ancient documents that may not only contradict each other but also be inaccurate and even completely wrong? What if these largely-trusted documents are well-devised scams? Life is an existence into a grand non-existence of void . The vast majority of the universe is devoid of sentient lifeforms. We only have our own selves within our only sapient solitude. This is why we created shared illusions such as "norms", "rules", "cultures", "morality," and "religions": to keep us away from the meaninglessness , to keep us distracted from venturing into the emptiness and purposelessness of this reality, which is the only concrete reality known to us with greater certainty . Sorry to break it to you, but everything is earthly. What you do have, however, is your own freedom to grant your life meaning. The possibilities of this grant are limitless, like the universe itself. You don’t even have to follow a certain social dogma in order to give meaning to your own existence. The term "meaning" may be subjective, and subjectivity is liberty. We are subjective beings, and therefore we are liberated even if we were to be put in a cage. No one can take away our freedom of creating and managing our own mindsets within the isolation of the individual consciousness. It is just a matter of exercise, and that exercise of internal freedom is best handled while alone, away from cultural distractions being imposed on you as "truths". Why should one see cultural values as "true" if they are subjective constructs, i.e., made by other people? You are the creator of your own meaning. That specific meaning doesn’t have to be true for other people. Meaning is a customized engine for the vehicle that is the life-force of the individual. You better be equipped with this kind of engine, or else you may risk falling into the depths of depression and nihilism. Of course we live in an empty universe, but that doesn’t mean we have to be hollow, too. We are different from the rocks and the star dust; we are self-conscious creators, with our minds being the multi-purpose key to whatever we may choose to do with it and to design it. Meaning is not necessarily something that will come to us, and we just have to passively wait for it. Instead of waiting, we ought to take responsibility and find or create meaning for ourselves. Complaining about a lack of meaning, then, will not help one's quest for life-long fulfillment. Unless the source of meaning actually comes to us, the attainment of meaning should be an endeavor to work towards, because otherwise no one will do it for us. It is our responsibility. Even with the hollowness of the universe, there is still much to do in life, and if it's not in the subject you're interested in, then it's in many other fields of expertise or knowledge. Inquire, learn, and find new opportunities; they will not necessarily come to you as you complain about emptiness. As Socrates said, "I know nothing". How can you know for sure that you have completely mastered the field of interest or profession you excel in? After I finished my third book, "Bread, Water, and Book", I genuinely thought that I had little else to write. Looking back, I realize how wrong I was, because not only did I write four more books, but I also wrote hundreds of articles for this website. I also thought at times that I no longer had anything else to write, only to write an article the same day I thought so! This is how uncertain our existence -- and our knowledge -- is. Keep an open mind and work your way towards meaning; don't expect others to do it for you. Become an active force that works towards purposefulness , and don't just give up when you feel you have little else to do in life. Existence is dynamic, fluid, and uncertain. As such, declaring that your existence is meaningless, regardless of your age, will only make you create an obstacle in your own way for attaining long-term satisfaction.

(Note: This article can be regarded as the prequel to this article ) (Background music) The Path to Resilience It's possible that only a masochist would love being insulted, as insults may be the bane of many of us. However! The mistake I've made throughout my life is to avoid insult by pursuing pleasure . Many of you might think that's the practical thing to do, but what about resilience? How can we expand our field of potential and ambition if we are not resilient enough to endure the possible predicaments that would stand in our way? How can we become more known publicly without it? How can we love when love hurts? How can we be assertive if we cannot have the will to withstand confrontations from those who resist? What about accepting insults as an inevitable possibility ? What if, even then, you will be insulted, no matter how much you attempt to retreat from them? You might even fail to learn properly from critics if you refuse to know how to take their words professionally. "Glass Cannons" and Overcoming Insult-Induced Anxiety in my personal interactions, I've detected something interesting in the pattern of some of those who've insulted me. Some of them may be glass cannons . Do you know what that means? It's a term to describe something or someone that is powerful in offense but weak in defense. Within each of my experiments with such insulters, a weakness may be found, and that is, usually, their ego. Is my assumption correct? Many insulters may feel free to insult others and treat them like dirt. However, some, if not many, of them may run away like cowards if something important to their egos is put into reasonable doubt. Therefore, it could be possible that people insult others to feel good about themselves. To quote an answer online whom many found useful: When they point out the flaws in others they take the attention off of their own. They want to bring people down to make themselves higher. It's also about a sense of control. Once they realize that they can make people feel as low as they do, they sort of feed off of it. It's a coping mechanism, no, not a healthy one. But it makes them not feel as insignificant. For some, it is their own lack of love for themselves. For others, it is their reputation. For even more others, these are values that may hold dear to their hearts: Credibility, tolerance towards the disabled, and emotions that they do not like. I am not sure if there is a human that is proof of a counterattack that can hit their weakness, when all humans have weaknesses. In the case of the need to insult, it also stems from whatever weakness they may be trying to cope with. Nevertheless, learning more about people can help one use a weakness against them, which might make them stay away from you and never return. Therefore, speaking with strangers, and expanding your circle of interactions, can give you the experience and memory required for you to potentially endure anxiety and insults even more than before. You can learn people to know how to protect yourself against their abuse. Technically, although not as severe as other forms of abuse, insults are also considered a form of verbal abuse. I have studied CBT, or cognitive behavioural therapy . One of its teachings is this: Experiment with your source of anxiety, bit by bit. With each dose of experimentation, you can get accustomed to the source of your anxiety, and thus, you can have an easier time, handling at least some of your problems. I'm saying this because I too suffer from anxiety as many people on the spectrum do. I became tougher by myself but the only effective way to become tougher is through either training or experience. With asceticism and by interacting with strangers I applied both. It all begins with understanding that you shouldn't accept yourself if your current version of yourself stands in the way of the life you want to manifest through your actions. If you'll accept yourself despite the dominant grip of your anxiety over you, you will only make it difficult for yourself to become tougher. Self-love therefore can be a predicament if the flaws you choose to embrace can and/or deserve to be changed in the name of your attainable hopes and dreams. We better keep in mind, in the name of our mental health, that we can be changed at least to a degree. And our ability to adapt is what allows us to endure this existence. According to the social-cognitive theory: Individual behavior can be influenced by a complex web of factors, including our environment, social interactions, and cognitive processes. Such factors can often lead to significant changes in personality over time, particularly if individuals are exposed to new and diverse experiences. Building Character through Imaginary Roleplay: Imagine yourself as a character, any character or even a real life person that you look up to, like a role model, and consider how they would handle the situation. If your imagined character is mentally tough, try to put yourself in his or her shoes. After all, we admire people because they inspire us with their standards. My character in mind, which you can study as well, is Dr. Ivo Robotnik  from the classic cartoon "The Adventures of Sonic the Hedgehog." I picked him specifically because he has pride like no other, and as such is too insensitive to be insulted. A ruthless, satirical warlord, Robotnik is used not only to insult but also to injury and humiliation. Despite his constant defeats at the hands of Sonic, he resumes doing what he does best: Seeing himself as great in every way: Maintaining a positive self-image, even in the face of failure. Accepting defeat without giving up: Recognizing setbacks as challenges to overcome, rather than reasons to surrender. Giving himself promotions : Finding self-worth and validation through the tasks he devises and carries out successfully. Additional Strategies: Humming a jolly and cartoonish tune: Utilizing humor and positivity to combat and overcome negativity. Accepting the harsh reality of the world: Understanding that suffering is a part of life and avoiding the expectation of constant validation and empathy from others in a world whose respect is to be earned, not be granted right away. Embracing challenges instead of succumbing to vulnerability: Choosing to fight for your mental well-being and resist the urge to withdraw when faced with difficulties. Do so as a habit and you can reduce your vulnerabilities regularly. By combining these strategies with ongoing learning and self-reflection, you can build the resilience you need to overcome insult-induced anxiety and navigate the complexities of life without resorting to complete isolation or "full hermit mode".

Article Synopsis by Mr. John Igwe and Co. "Statements And Demonstrations -- Why Proof Deserves Priority" is a well-argued and relevant article that emphasizes the importance of actions over words in establishing credibility and respect. Mr. Tomasio highlights the pitfalls of self-proclaimed titles and emphasizes the need for consistent demonstration of one's abilities and virtues. The article is logically structured, with each paragraph building on the previous one, creating a cohesive narrative. The central thesis is clear and relevant: to be recognized for one's qualities or skills, one must prove them through actions rather than simply stating them. Contemporary examples, such as "woke," illustrate how self-assigned labels can backfire, providing a context that readers can easily relate to. The article is logically structured, guiding the reader through various examples and explanations that support the central argument. The emphasis on authenticity and leading by example is well-articulated, arguing that true confidence and mastery are demonstrated through consistent actions over time, rather than through self-promotion. This perspective aligns with the timeless wisdom that actions speak louder than words. The article encourages readers to focus on self-improvement and self-validation rather than seeking external approval . This positive message places responsibility for one's reputation and respect firmly in one's own hands. In conclusion, "Statements Versus Demonstrations -- Why Proof Deserves Priority" is a well-argued and relevant piece that underscores the importance of authenticity and action over mere words. (Background Music) Those who wish to convey to the mind of others that they are of a certain standing, simply stating that they are of said standing, can more often than not lead to disbelief in the listener. In other words, saying that you're "smart" or a "master" of something, will only bring you mockery and a perception of pretentiousness. That's long as you don't prove yourself sufficiently, that you are indeed of this standing of yours. A most-dominant example nowadays is the term "woke." While it's trying to convey that one is somehow enlightened , they are in fact shooting themselves in the foot since it creates the impression that they are delusional about themselves; that they are less than they intend to convey they are. Now that this term is widely-used as an insult to those who highly support political correctness , it has become even harder to use that term about yourself, and expect one to be taken seriously. Being "woke", in addition, creates this condescending impression that one is far more knowledgeable than the rest of us, who are not as "awake" as they are. Thus, titles such as "woke" or " sage " are very dangerous to one's reputation because simply stating that one is of said title/status, is not at all a worthy alternative to simply presenting that you are a "sage" or a "master" or whatever. It is indeed kind of lazy to just say something instead of using yourself as an example through your actions. This is why wise people do not just say out loud that they are "smart," as they would lead by example , rather than by mere words. Their actions would speak louder than their words. To be of a certain standing, one must therefore prove to both themselves and to others that they are indeed worthy of said position under whatever framework or scale. This is because it is far more effective to put the point across through practical evidence rather than through what would seem to be boasting or "blowing off one's own horn." Nowadays, constitutional monarchs are arguably disrespected because they don't lead by example as much. Their role is most often than not ceremonious, as with non-executive presidents in parliamentary democracies. In a world forged by merit, AKA by action, it's quite hard to be respected in high regard simply because of royal ancestry. The true impression of someone's character is best created from being a witness to said character. It is naive, in a world misled by fake news and questionable authority , to expect general respect without proper evidence. It's why I've been working since August 2023 in renovating this site with just that, but I digress. This is especially true for people who do not know you on a regular basis, if at all. Because of this lack of familiarity, it is far easier to judge that one is delusional about themselves, than judging the same thing after a long time of recognition or interaction. And do not expect them to research your credibility if you yourself fail to demonstrate it. Much of the reception dilemma can be solved through convincing -- and correct -- demonstration/s of your value. Do not say you are wise, and especially not a master or a sage, as these titles share similar impacts with terms such as "woke." Remember that people are far more convinced by deeds rather than mere statements, as those can easily be debunked. Do not expect compassion in a world dictated by liberty. That's in fact the dark side of liberty. A side so dark it leads to the Tragedy of Heisenberg : Why show empathy or compassion when we're free not to do so? Those who are confident enough about themselves, will not seek the approval of others by demand, nor validation . The truly confident, after all, do not need to depend their self-esteem on the feedback of others, whether or not said feedback arrives at their doorstep regularly. Attention-and-approval-seeking, all are examples of those who technically seek external recognition that does not necessarily exists within themselves. An inner void to be solved by self-love. But why should we expect love or empathy from people in general, when both qualities are generally limited in capacity? Don't appeal to emotion instead of proving what you stated. It's a fallacy after all. Titles are, in the end, things to be earned through sweat, unless you happen to be born under royalty or nobility. Other people can serve as a mirror to your advancement. Once they reach a conclusion about you, said conclusion could be true if it truly reflects the significance of your deeds. Nonetheless, skepticism requires mental effort. It is far easier for people to discard you by giving in to their confirmation bias : Remember: Having our beliefs confirmed and supported feels good. It's your job to demonstrate your self-directed statements; It isn't theirs to necessarily be curious and research you, when people prefer to consume than to actively seek new data. If you ever want to be considered a "master," a "sage," or whatever, then you should look to those who are not too biased, but honest, to provide an accurate reflection of your character. Of course, our identities can indeed exist beyond the realm of society . But as long as you communicate beyond the mere necessity, the value of society to your overall recognition in your role, shouldn't be disregarded. You deserve to be trusted, after all. Lastly, if you wish to have fans, they should become ones out of honest desire, and not just to please you . A wise person does not ask others to follow him or her; they come out of their own genuine decision. If they give you a certain title of respect, do not demand or request it to be used. Like in Taoism -- Wu Wei . Let the positive impression come naturally as you interact with the world in a laid-back manner.

Synopsis by Mr. Tomasio Rubinshtein Life is inherently imperfect. We can't always achieve our desired outcomes or attain the level of "perfection" we envision. However, this doesn't negate the value of striving for excellence. Giving your best effort doesn't guarantee an ideal result. Some individuals may simply have a higher capacity for a particular task, allowing them to excel even with less experience. This doesn't have to diminish your own efforts in the races of life. Humans possess varying strengths and limitations. Some limitations are inherent, while others can be improved upon through dedication and practice. The key lies in understanding your unique capabilities and striving for excellence within that framework. The true measure of success lies in making the most of the cards you've been dealt, and accomplishing your ambitions despite the hardships. Whether you possess exceptional talent or face significant challenges, continuous improvement is the key. The concept challenges the notion that "doing your best" equates to achieving perfection. Perfection is often an unrealistic ideal, and some tasks may simply fall outside our natural strengths or capabilities. We all have inherent limitations, but that shouldn't always excuse us from doing the best we can. (Background music) Striving for Excellence Despite Challenges Existence is imperfect, and you can't always get what you want or think you deserve. However, that doesn't mean you can't try to be the best you can in whatever field you work in, regardless of the end goal. Even if you fail, it doesn't mean you didn't try your best—although in most cases, there is room for improvement. And it is best to try and fail rather than to not try at all. If you're not going to try, how are you going to have a chance to reach peak performance? Doing the best you can allows you to optimally reduce the chances of failure. Then, this rate of performance not only becomes highly beneficial, but necessary as well, for accomplishment to be likely made. For the contemporary world is a competitive landscape, hindered only by monopolies and syndicates of people and groups. Companies strive to pick the top candidates, and a single misstep can weaken your position both before (the interviewing) and after joining the organization. This pressure to be perfect can be overwhelming, especially when faced with limited options. As such many Americans suffer from work-related stress , and the paradox lies in striving to be good so much that your own stress hinders you. Stress is indeed one of the reasons people miss work days. See how your emotions work against you, unless you keep them in greater check by their reduction. Most people have two choices: hone their presentation skills to stand out in a competitive job market or rely on someone else's financial support. However, those with disabilities may have a third option, depending on their circumstances. People living on welfare do not have to be deadbeat klumniks. Whether it's refining your skills within your field, advocating for disability awareness , or simply finding ways to live a fulfilling life, there are countless paths to personal growth. Finding My Path: A Personal Story Technically, I never worked full-time because such a trial would only worsen my mental health.  The tasks I had at an office weren't inherently difficult, but the monotony triggered extreme periods of exhaustion . In part, this caused a "Reaping Fatigue Era" , a 5 year period where I only got tired and more tired until I became physically disabled in 2023 from all the exhaustion. To be free of that neurological imprisonment, I forced myself to develop a neurological technique that kills off much of my emotions -- the Inner Murder technique. Just to earn back my physical freedom, I had to sacrifice some of who I was. This worked, too. Because of that period's resolution, this website improved significantly. The resolution allowed me to contribute meaningfully without succumbing to the pressure of a traditional job.   Stress not only exhausts me but also translates as physical pain. This brings me back to the original point: doing your best doesn't always mean being perfect or even ideal. A person in a wheelchair won't do well when tasked with climbing stairs, and a blind man won't necessarily navigate a new location as well as a seeing man.  In other words, doing your best is about capacity, not merit. Even skilled individuals have limits. Ironically, someone with a higher capacity but less inherent talent might surpass you in the long run because their skills can improve significantly over time.  The key is to identify your strengths and weaknesses, and then strive for excellence within that framework. Let's take gaming as an analogy . Two players with the same amount of experience can have vastly different levels of competence. One player might have a natural aptitude for the game, leading to faster skill development.  Judging someone's skill solely on experience is a fallacy.  It's like the generalization that all elderly people are wise – age alone doesn't guarantee wisdom. In-depth research articles, as such, are beyond my capacity, only if I choose to perceive pain as insufferable. Then, the research and the writing process would be too demanding, causing the stress and physical pain I mentioned earlier, either way. The right approach goes a long way. So rest assured that I strive for excellence as a writer and site owner. Longtime users of Philosocom are evident to the numerous changes I've implemented on the platform – all proof to my dedication to continuous improvement to my work. The Continuous Evolution of Website Management One might think that creating a website is a one-time endeavor. However, I've learned firsthand that website management is practically an endless flow of work. This truth became abundantly clear during weekly consultations I had with a certain consultant.  She constantly presented me with tasks, emphasizing the need for continuous adaptation in website design and interface. This concept aligns perfectly with the notion of striving for excellence within your limits.  While a large corporation might have the resources for a complete website overhaul every year, for me, excellence lies in making steady and gradual improvements. That's done by constantly tweaking and refining the user experience based on my capacity, knowledge and the ever-evolving landscape of website design. The journey of website management, though demanding at times, allows me to share my insights and contribute meaningfully to the world of philosophical exploration , despite my ills and disabilities. Disabilities do not have to be a very large problem when you're tenacious enough to be right for the job. Therefore, doing the best you can is also a matter of tenacity, a drive to succeed despite all opposing odds. Think beyond the disability, think beyond why you can't do something. Identify what needs to be done for greater advancement, and focus on it the best you can. Only then you'll have the least amount of odds standing between you and your goals. Mr. Nathan Lasher's Feedback I would say doing your best is a relative term. Perfection is nothing more than a subjective state of mind. Best is not a universal term. Someone’s best might not be relative to how another person sees it. You cannot place it as a universal value. Doing your best is a matter of ability. Not everyones is the same. As Mr. Tomasio mentioned, some people might be naturally skilled at something. Best is more of a matter of how much effort you put into doing something An example of how standards work in the real world: People automatically assume everyone doing a particular job must be the same. My personal belief is that a job doesn’t make a person. A person makes a job. [This is] how employment structure should be held: Basing its jobs on its employees. Custom designed work. Humans weren’t meant to be assembly lines where they do the same work over and over again. Why waste your time doing something a machine can do? Technology has caused humanity to need to work on its human capital. People should always do their best because they never know what doors might open up if they do so. People’s actions determine how people see them. This does not mean your actions need to be done in secret . Doing your best is nothing more then putting forth as much effort as you can. Imagine doing that for everything in your life. Never know what the future holds if you did that. Next time you are around a group of people try putting a little effort towards doing stuff. People will think you are a hard worker when all you are doing is the bare amount of work. It’s as simple as doing actions.

(Background music) Part I: The Weight of Secrets: A Moral Imperative Man is not what he thinks he is, he is what he hides.  -- Andre Malraux In the absence of dire circumstances , one's most challenging moral decisions often arise from the responsibility of keeping secrets. These secrets are entrusted to you by individuals who have placed their faith and trust in your discretion. A secret, by definition, is information purposefully concealed from others, a form of exclusive knowledge. Furthermore, we may also keep secrets from ourselves, intentionally, and unconsciously.. While a paywall also leads to exclusive knowledge, the reason of concealment is not the lack of trust but the quest for monetary gain. Secrets are to be kept in the name of psychological safety , mainly. Should you betray this trust and reveal their secrets, their respect for you will crumble, and you will be perceived as less trustworthy. Therefore, there exists a social and moral obligation to guard entrusted information, especially if you desire the respect of others. Complying to this also serves as a testament to your integrity and ability to uphold promises. As such, I view secret-keeping as an obligation that should be honored whenever the situation arises. A vow, like the one presented in the Samurai's Bushido code . Part II: The Charm of Secrets: Uncovering the Human Need to Share There is no delight in owning anything unshared. -- Seneca Humans possess an inherent desire to tell secrets to others, to share their deepest thoughts and experiences, even at the risk of exposure. This inclination stems from an innate need for connection, validation , and emotional relief . The act of exposing secrets, when done with discretion, fosters a sense of intimacy and trust, providing a greater sense of security to the secret-keeper, and less loneliness. This is also how loneliness can be a liability, when the people you've trusted, failed to be trustworthy in practice. Unburdening oneself to a trusted confidant offers a sense of security and credibility. If you need to do it, do it with people who care for you enough as to not betray you so easily. Those who ghost easily for example, are cowards, and cowards are not trustworthy for they can easily betray you. A Weight off Your Mind The secret-teller feels validated, knowing that their thoughts and experiences are not confined to the depths of their mind but are acknowledged and respected by another. This shared vulnerability strengthens the bond between the individuals, fostering a deeper level of intimacy. However, the decision to disclose a secret should not be taken lightly. As such, the choice of a confidant must be made with prudence. Imparting sensitive information to a stranger or an acquaintance is a gamble, filled with the potential for betrayal and exploitation. Hence why knowledge is power. Sometimes, not even a family member is trustworthy enough! Secrets possess inherent power, and entrusting them to another individual grants them a degree of influence. Therefore, you should feel grateful when you are given a secret, because secrets grant you power. Abuse that power , and you might be as morally-depraved  as a merciless, third-world country dictator. Would you be able to live it through without feeling any regret? While family members, psychologists, or mentors may offer a safe haven for secrets, it's crucial to recognize that not everyone in our lives possesses the integrity to safeguard confidential information. The temptation to reveal a secret for personal gain or even for amusement can be overwhelming, as many temptations are , especially amidst social pressures or personal conflicts. Part III: How and to Whom Reveal Secrets People do not seem to realize that their opinion of the world is also a confession of character -- Ralph Waldo Emerson Maintaining secrecy requires a strong sense of self-respect and personal integrity. Betraying a confidence not only damages the trust of others but also undermines one's own moral compass. The weight of a secret can induce a form of "anxiety," a constant awareness of the responsibility to uphold one's word. Not everyone has the guts to endure it , so they may be tempted to spill the beans. Thus, it's crucial to reveal secrets to people possessing the following traits: Loyalty Trustworthy-ness Resolve against cowardice Moral Integrity Accepting Secrets Ourselves Accepting the responsibility of keeping a secret demands self-assurance and a commitment to long-term confidentiality. Secrets are not mere playthings to be discarded; they represent a "sacred" trust of sorts that reflects one's character and values. You know, it's quite hard to get along in this world if people find it hard to depend on you. As individuals accumulate the trust of others, their own self-trust deepens, reinforcing a virtuous cycle of integrity and reliability. That's because when someone trusts you, you feel like you are appreciated enough, and cared enough, to not be betrayed by these people. Final words Navigating Trust and Deception: A Call for Integrity If you're going to use your given power badly, then I hope your deception will be revealed, before it's too late. Or people are going to be disappointed; Heartbroken; Sink into despair and lose faith in humanity. If you want to improve your confidence with others, ask yourself if they deserve to be trusted .   If you seek to be trusted yourself, ask yourself if you are worthy to be trusted by others as much as you trust yourself. If people do not have a hidden agenda, or an ulterior motive . I would not recommend entrusting secrets with them. After all, that motive is hidden, unknown. What if that motive is something that might go against you? even if the secret is about something that isn't their fault, that isn't a "sin", they will nonetheless keep it in private, in the hope that it won't go out publicly. All because they're afraid of external perception.

(Background music) (For the directory on success, click here ) Making Something of Yourself -- A Short Essay Logically speaking , there is no "must" or "must not" when there is no goal to depend upon. A goal is something that we choose to pursue and eventually achieve. Therefore, as long as you do not have an ambition that you wish to achieve, there are no things that you must do in order to actualize a non-existent ambition. For there must be a goal in every pursuit. Otherwise, why would we pursue in the first place Pursuit is always dependent upon a purpose, whose steps and actions towards it are required in order to achieve that purpose/goal. For example, I do not really need to shave . However, because my ambition is to keep the aesthetics of my face and prevent my face from being itchy, I must shave in order to achieve that ambition. Without purpose or any other functionality, there are no necessary components that you must fulfill. Without any of these you can just do nothing , and then you'll make nothing out of yourself. For a purpose, people may work on themselves and strive to be better. Therefore, making something out of yourself is often because of a certain drive in you. A "will to power", if you will. Social pressure can be a very annoying aspect of our lives. Just because you are under pressure by other people, it does not mean that you must follow as they do, no matter how convincing they are. Social pressure alone is not enough of a purpose to succumb to others, regardless of their affiliation to you. Once you are a free citizen, your life, ideally, is yours to do with as you please. Since your life belongs to you, it is primarily up to you to decide what purposes you wish to actualize. Thus, if you wish for a simple, normal life , it is your undoubted right to live a life of simplicity; if you wish to be great, the same conclusion follows. Being told what to do, and doing so for the sake of blind obedience, is but the property of a true prisoner of the mind. When it comes to lifestyle, there is no "enough" or "not enough" in endeavor, beyond the stories we tell ourselves and believe in. You don't have to be simple, nor great. There is no law from the state that demands you to be either of those opposite values. It is generally, if not solely, your choice to be either of them, or even mediocre if you desire, regardless of reception. This is much more true if you are an adult. Personally, I combine those values in my lifestyle. I live a relatively ascetic and hermetic life. When there is no work on a specific day, I barely talk to anyone, and I very rarely get socially involved beyond the interaction between me and my family. However, I have decided to live such a simple and serene life to make room for philosophical contemplation and writing philosophy . I call this lifestyle Philosophical Asceticism. I present you my personal example in order to show you that you can both live simply and peacefully, and to achieve greatness at the same time. Simplicity and greatness don't have to contradict themselves, for they can even be united into a hybrid. If you attempt to follow the path of greater merit, take note that you cannot control the memory of others, let alone after your death . The possibility of you being remembered for an extended period of time is dependent primarily, if not solely, on others. Many people who have made many inventions, theories, and works of art are remembered because their creations have surpassed them in the collective memory. I myself am not even sure who invented the television, Wi-Fi, or corn flakes, despite their value. If you desire to be remembered as a great person, not because of social pressure but because of your own desire, try to create and compose great things, and the possibility of you being remembered long after your death will increase . However, do not rely too much on mere hope, for life is not fair for theoretically everyone in this world. To succeed in the first place you must overcome the mental difficulties of failure!

An "Inevitable Possibility" refers not to the possibility itself, ironically, but to the fact that the chance of it happening, always being there. For example, death is inevitable , and yet, it can always happen at any point of time when someone's alive. Therefore, death is an inevitable possibility, because one can always die due to whatever reason, especially if that reason will make that death premature, and not out of natural causes. It doesn't mean that you will certainly die due to a specific reason, just because its possibility exists. You might die because of it, when the chance of it occurring, is an inevitable one. In other words: If you can always die because of it, then it is an inevitable possibility. It may sound like an oxymoron, because "possibility" refers to likelihood, and not to certainty. However, the existence of some likelihoods, can be certain, even if their chance of occurring, is low. On the other hand, there are some possibilities that are not inevitable, and that will either be fulfilled or not. When such possibilities are not fulfilled, they become missed opportunities. Whether you turn that opportunity into a reality is another matter. You may prove yourself in the dating world , for example, or lose your worth in the eyes of some by lacking experience and/or being socially incompetent. It can be changed though, so you'll decrease the chances of dying alone. So, while death is an inevitable possibility, whether you will die single or within companionship, is a matter of evitable possibility. Singlehood and romance are therefore both evitable possibilities as they depend on your actions. That is while an inevitable possibility exists regardless of your choices. In general, like in death, or when you've made a point of no return . If you commit murder, for example, it is a point of no return where you're always likely, to a degree, to be caught. It's one of the reasons you shouldn't murder. I will give another example: When speaking to strangers, it may be inevitable, that one of them is a psychopath , who is good at concealing their true personality . It does not mean that every stranger is a psychopath. But the more strangers you'll be talking to, the higher the chance will be, that at least one of them is a psychopath. If you're a public figure, like me (someone whose work requires public communication/life), then the possibility of interacting with a psycho, is inevitable, EVEN if you will never reach one. And you can never truly know unless they show their true colors, or unless you know otherwise (like if they confess, or if a credible source tells you who they really are). Inevitable possibilities are ironic because they might never happen. You may always be prone to death by, let's say, a heart attack, but it does NOT mean that you will indeed die because of it. Perhaps you will die of many other reasons, but it does not contradict the fact that, dying of a heart attack, is inevitable by chance. It could always happen while alive. It is important to detect inevitable possibilities because doing so can decrease being surprised . The less surprised one is, the less likely one is to be excited by sudden events, when they happen. Did you know? When watching a video, there is, technically, always a chance that you will be met with a jumpscare . A "Jumpscare" is usually a sudden face that appears on your screen, and is usually followed by a scream, that can enhance even more the purpose of this concept: Scare you through the element of surprise . Therefore, it is important to be prepared for it, even if it might never happen, because if you will prepare for it mentally, you can feel much safer, when you'd indeed be faced with one. Of course, that's only true if you watch videos and films, especially of the horror genre. There should be little reason to be surprised and/or afraid of inevitable possibilities, because the future is uncertain . Since it is uncertain, one should not delude themselves with the thought that it isn't. Some of you may believe in concepts such as fate , but it doesn't mean that you actually know your fates, just because you believe in this concept, existing in the real world. Even if fate exists, it is still unknown. It is like seeing a box, and knowing what it contains, without opening it first. Do you see what I mean? Whether fate exists or not, you can't foresee it. You can only expect it. and reality is often disappointing . Even a mastermind 's master plan can always be flawed by the fact that there is an uncertain opportunity threatening its successful execution. In order to detect inevitable possibilities, one must ask themselves the following: What chance is always there? If you've graduated from school, for example, the chance of having a school-day tomorrow, is illogical. If you're not a student anymore, and not a teacher, then why would you have to return to school tomorrow? Another example: If you don't exit your house every day, like me, then the chance of getting into a car accident, is not an inevitable possibility. If I intend to spend the whole day in my house, then how can a car run me over, if there is no road in my house, and if I, for instance, live in an upper floor of a building? If you, let's say, work from home, and live on the 4th floor, then there is no reason to believe that a car has an inevitable chance of hitting you, in each day of the year. Since we are not omniscient beings, or beings who are capable of knowing everything, then we might make mistakes, even when it comes to making assessments on the inevitable. However, even if we would find ourselves, being proven wrong with either facts, logic or both, then why should it prevent us, from trying to be more prepared for such possibilities? After all, we are not omniscient, so of course we could make mistakes... One could even say, that committing a mistake, is an inevitable possibility of its own. How can one expects to be right so easily when there is an inevitable chance to be proven wrong in many cases? It is not even a matter of opinion, it is a matter of the fact that reality isn't always clear or even known. Therefore, it is important to keep an open mind. Making mistakes should not be something for one to avoid of entirely, as that is extremely difficult if not possible. At times you'll only know you're making a mistake, when you're making it, or when you reflect on it. As such, mistakes are built on experience, and as long as you're alive, you'll experience. Therefore experience is an inevitable possibility as long as you're alive, and the same applies to making mistakes at one point or another. Why do you think I already have a plan of succession in mind? It is a very disturbing thought, yes, but as a philosopher, I must look directly at the truth: That some chances are inevitable. That I might die even as a young man. Although disturbing, accepting them brings peace to my mind... Especially, after making preparations. Wouldn't you agree? I used to believe, that nothing is ensured. However, after writing this article, I have realized that I was wrong, and that, at least, only some chances are ones, even if they are few in variety. Please, do not expect me to be correct in everything I say. An open mind is certainly a healthy one. Of course, I have no intention of misleading anyone when philosophizing; That goes against my ethics.

Table of Contents The Poem Itself. Analysis by Mr. J. Igwe and Co. *********************************** How delightful it is, To believe that you are special, As anyone else, And not insignificant, As anyone else. That a clear, heavenly-planned path, Has been decided for you, And no possible choice on your behalf, Could ever change it. Even if you decide to take a knife, And brutally kill your family, That is also planned out, Just as your decision, To not do so at all. "Everything is planned and the possibility is granted" So say the sages of Judaism. How can such thing be true, When you are condemned by your immense liberty, As Sartre would claim? As if, you cannot alter your life, Without any choice being already planned, By a mysterious entity. It is quite silly, when you can decide your fate, to an extent, and not said being. Should that being want me in jail, Why would I be there if I am to choose not to commit a crime? Perhaps there are, indeed, Choices bigger than divine will. And still, most, if not all, Seek to feel important, As inferiority weakens our egos, And depresses our will to live. Thus, it would only be natural, That some people will believe, That the universe has a mind of its own, Even just for the sake of feeling great, In both mood and role, As barely-influencing as it might be. It feels great, to believe there is a greater frame, Where every encounter, every day, Is significant more than it seems to be, But.. more than it actually is, perhaps? That each ally is a star of destiny, That each conflict has a clear result by the heavens, That only a divine will, Will decide who will win in whatever conflict, One and their followers may encounter, No matter how powerful either side may be. In video games, Rare are the cases where you fight to lose; Which means -- You're supposed to prevail with each encounter, You can also lose in. If only reality was as simplistic as the virtual realm. Does "money comes from divine authority"? Do something not appealing in a job interview, And you've blown it. How, then, in the world, Can divine will also have authority, On the free will of its subjects? If it has, then such "wills" are not free, Which is too illogical to be true, Since we already have freedom, On many of our choices; Choices unplanned by divinity. In the end, at least as a man, Only I can impregnate a woman. No divine authority can force me to do so. Thus, should the heavens have commanded me to be a family man, They cannot execute their order, Without my permission, my will. Thus, it would only be logical, That there are some things that are greater, Than the concept of legendary spirituality. Analysis by Mr. J. Igwe and Co. "In Offense of Determinism" is a poem that explores the philosophical tension between determinism and free will. Mr. Tomasio challenges the idea that every event and decision is predetermined by a higher, divine authority, as suggested by deterministic or religious doctrines. The poem engages with existentialist ideas, particularly those of Jean-Paul Sartre , to advocate for the reality and importance of human freedom and personal agency. The central theme of the poem is a critique of determinism, the belief that all events, including human actions, are predetermined by a divine or cosmic force. The poem questions this idea by presenting hypothetical scenarios and asking whether such actions could be truly "planned out" by a divine entity. The poem suggests that if every choice is already determined, then human freedom is merely an illusion. The poem also critiques religious determinism, referencing the paradox of being condemned by one's immense liberty, as Sartre might argue. It highlights that while religious doctrines may promote comfort in believing in a higher purpose, they can also deny the fundamental human experience of freedom and choice. The poem embraces existentialist ideas by asserting that humans have the power to make choices that are not constrained by any divine or cosmic plan. "The poet" argues that if divine will had authority over every choice, then the concept of "free will" would be a contradiction. The poem also addresses the psychological and emotional dimensions of deterministic beliefs, drawing parallels between real life and video games, where outcomes are often scripted or pre-determined. By comparing reality t o the "simplistic" virtual realm, the poem critiques the deterministic belief that divine authority controls all outcomes. The poem employs literary techniques and style, such as irony and satire, repetition, rhetorical questions, imagery and metaphor, and a conversational tone to engage the reader in a dialogue about the nature of freedom, choice, and divine authority. By drawing on existentialist ideas, the poem argues for the primacy of human agency and the limitations of deterministic thinking. Overall, "In Offense of Determinism" is a compelling reflection on one of the oldest philosophical debates, presented in a style that is both accessible and thought-provoking. The use of existentialist concepts gives it a contemporary relevance, making it resonate with those who question traditional religious or deterministic beliefs.

(Philosocom's Masculinity Directory) Hereby 10 insights/laws I have to offer about the notion of Manhood. 1. You don’t need to demonstrate what is already there . It’s not your problem that others don’t believe you’re a man, when you clearly are a man! You don't need to prove your masculinity. It's not your problem if others don't believe you're a man, because you know that you are. You don't need validation for your manhood, therefore apathy about it, is strength , by sparing you limited time and concern. 2. You don’t need to give anyone an impression of what is already present and known (Not just your manhood). You don’t need to impress a lady when the lady already has a positive impression of you. The same applies to anything and to everyone else. People will already have an impression of you based on their own experiences and biases . When they refuse to understand your words, then let your actions speak for themselves. Try to avoid people-pleasing, as that can be used against you. 3. There are no specific guidelines on how to be a man when the only way to be a man is to be male and to reach adulthood. Other "necessities" that are regarded as prerequisites, are product of delusion. There is no one "right" way to be a man, given how diversely-individual we all are. What matters most is that you are true to yourself and to your plans. 4. You clearly don’t need to “ be in touch with your feminine side” if you are convinced you don’t have one. You don’t have to “be more manly” if you’re convinced you’re manly enough. Conversely, you don't need to conform to traditional gender roles if it doesn't serve your hopes and dreams. Plans, yet, require you to be considerate of others, or else they would turn on you either through impulsivity or through their own revolutionary potential. 5. You don’t need to be at the top of whatever societal power pyramid you’re in, in order to be masculine. Some common men, from construction workers to lumberjacks, can be more ironically considered more "masculine" than the man at the top. Soldiers going to war, can be deemed as more brave, than the politicians who sacrifice them. Masculinity is not about your job or your social status. It's about being confident and comfortable in your own skin. Being true to yourself is a virtue, therefore "masculinity" is about having "masculine virtues" in your thoughts and conduct. The more universal a culture is , the more virtues are seen as masculine by most of this world. 6. Your girlfriend or wife is not a goddess, an angel or a nymph. Praising them like this can be seen as not self-respecting, and therefore not virtuous. The attempt to portray women as divine creatures is a biased perspective. Look at them as humans instead, like any other human being. Look them in the eyes, and understand they are flawed as well as yourself. You don't have to objectify human beings, nor put them on a pedestal, just because of gender/sex. Treat people with respect and dignity, regardless of mere demographics. 7. Once you are an adult and have finished all your mandatory tasks, the way you choose to live your life is entirely up to you. Even if you disappoint some of your closest people, your life from adulthood until death remains yours to lead and govern , whether you attain a powerbase , or decide to become a drag queen. 8. Being nice is not always helpful. Sometimes it can even do the opposite of what you expect. Do not be afraid to raise your voice and speak your mind when you are convinced you should. Adulthood is the end of the submissive obedience that you have been preached to follow during your school years. 9. If you don't know something and want to know it, and it's your right to know, ask! Even if others may be frustrated by your questioning, ask nonetheless, until you find a satisfying answer. We are born into this world ignorant, and we grow less ignorant as we learn. It is through knowledge that we can successfully stay true to ourselves, without the difficulties of failure. 10. You don't need a muscular physique in order to be manly. Your maturity , assertiveness, autonomy, and self-dignity are sufficient to make you "a masculine man", as opposed to a boy, who is likely to possess neither of these, but is extremely muscular. The path to "masculinity", necessary to be respected by many people, lies in virtue, not in bodybuilding.

Sleep is the best medicine before a battle -- Unidentified Napoleonic General (Background music) Accepting the Inevitability of Conflict and Suffering Conflict and suffering are inevitable parts of life. However, we can choose to view them negatively, with sorrow and misfortune, or positively, with open arms. If we choose to view conflict and suffering positively, we can use them to increase our strength, resilience, and endurance. We can also use them to gain maturity , confidence, and other benefits. Interpersonal conflicts are always possible in a civilized society. However, we can learn to deal with them effectively by accepting their inevitability and by viewing them as opportunities for growth. That includes the most agonizing of moments. It is not helpful to be miserable because of inevitable adversity. Self-pity will not help us cope with adversity or with societal struggles. We are taught to disdain discomfort and to hope for it to go away so that we can experience pleasure and ease once more. However, if the uncomfortable situation is already present and there is nothing we can do to make it go away, then there is no point in preserving counter-productive mindsets. Instead, we should focus on extracting the lemon juice out of the different lemons that life throws at us. Finding Peace Within Screeching Walls of Object and Mind While I seek to live a life of optimal serenity , I am aware that something very uncomfortable, such as involuntary adversity, is here to stay for a long time. In this case, my ambition becomes more of a hindrance than an asset, and it is no longer useful or beneficial in helping me cope or grow. Because my quest for optimal serenity is not yet actualized due to noise and other disturbances, my hope to find optimal peacefulness might be proven impractical and even counter-productive. Not only will it make me unnecessarily miserable, but it might not help me become a stronger being by enduring their yells and sometimes initiating a counter-attack of my own. From a purely logical perspective, a life of peace, while not possible in its absolution, can be achieved optimally. However, I hope you will agree with me that being very sensitive and not very resilient will make my search for optimal peace harder than it should be. Hence, I give this personal example to show you that adversity , even if uncomfortable, may sometimes be proven as inevitable. Instead of saying to oneself "there's nothing I can do about it" and feeling completely hopeless, why not think the opposite: that adversity can be seized for one's own benefit? Like a bitter, yet rewarding medicine, as you suffer in the name of health. In video games , we are eager to beat bosses that are not easy to beat. This is because many bosses in video games are obligatory in order for us to proceed in the game and reach new areas. We can, technically, not fight with them and stay in the same areas we have already unlocked and explored. But why should we? Mining the Depths of Pain for Uncommon Strength In the same way, we can choose to see adversity as an opportunity to grow and become stronger. By facing our challenges head-on, we can learn and develop new skills that will help us overcome future obstacles. We can also build resilience and learn to cope with difficult situations more effectively. Of course, this does not mean that adversity is easy or pleasant. It can be very challenging and even painful. However, by choosing to view adversity in a positive light, we can make it an opportunity for growth and development. Why "think positive" and escape from the depths within you, when you can permit yourself to sink into these depths and face the following features: Past traumas. Heart-breaking moments. Darker truths about yourself. Darker truths about those who are dear to you. Triggers . Consider reliving the past, from time to time, not for the purpose of clinging to it. No. Face its darker and sorrowful events, as if you are a miner about to make a fortune in his gold mine. Do not escape from your pain. Let yourself be engulfed in it, and see how it will reward you in exchange for allowing it to be experienced and expressed. Give in to your anger, to your sorrows. They represent what you could've done, and couldn't. They also represent what you could've never done, and still cannot done. Face the truth day and day, night by night, and see how stronger you become, mentally, as your boundaries expand. That is because these pains, when normalized, normalize your reaction to them as well. Pain is constructed entirely by the brain. And when it comes to the subconscious , it remembers everything you've experienced. In other words, all of the pain and torment you went through in life, exists somewhere in your brain. And it provides the raw material to forge a new you, in order to live life, along and despite the haunting presence of pain in either past, present or future. The Forge of Resilience Life, like any grand adventure, is not a tranquil stroll through a flower garden. It's a trek through diverse, often harsh landscapes. Wanting to live a life pure of rugged mountains embodied in dense mist, is often unrealistic. And just as a climber wouldn't fear the steep climb, but embrace it as the stepping stones for the top, we must confront discomfort as the forge of our resilience. It's not about seeking pain for its own sake, as it's often with fun . It's about recognizing its inherent role in shaping us, and developing us to become tougher, if not ruthless human beings. Through neuroplasticity , the strike of failure teaches us to rise stronger, the ache of loss sharpens our empathy, and hardship hones our determination to further accomplish our goals relentlessly. Each obstacle, if navigated with courage and wisdom, becomes a stepping stone, to the greater transformation of the self. So, let us not fear from discomfort and disinterest. Let's teach ourselves the meaning of discipline, of acting independently of our own willpower. Let's embrace these repulsing energies, as a vital furnace, to fuel the industrial complex of bodies and minds we can become. And as such, it is often the breath-taking landscapes often lie beyond the most challenging climbs. There is no greater reward without a considerable amount of sacrifice. The Human Hand of Justice Remember, words have the power to inspire and uplift or to inflict pain and division. Choose them carefully, for they can gratify, as well as torment. Don't say something you might regret saying at a later date. And make sure you are not brewing humans who care about you dearly, into heartless revenants. Some have become heartless to seal away the pain you inflicted upon them, but as written before, it stays deep within the human mind, never to go away. And different people experience pain differently. Some of these may return for revenge. Some of them are crow-like enough to not forget things you said about them, for they have exceptional memory. As such, they remember, for you were one of the triggers that made them break inside... Break inside, and form anew. Rise from despair. Reborn. For good and for bad. Stronger beings. Relentless beings. Heartless beings. Broken beings. Do not give power, with your words, to people who can utilize your insults and hunt you down, should your paths ever cross again on this Earth. A certain person earlier in my life, knows that well.

(Background music) Consumerism is the belief that acquiring many goods and services is beneficial to the economy and to one's wellbeing. This is true to a degree, given that there are many jobs that require constant and repetitive consumption in order to make money. There are also many jobs that finance people by selling things that are not necessary for a life of satisfaction and happiness. In other words, while the culture of consumerism is necessary for the sustainability of people who provide goods that are beyond necessity, it is not necessary for people to be in a constant state of unnecessary shopping "crusades." Consumerist culture is therefore more beneficial to sellers than buyers, as without the activity of unnecessary shopping across trading centers worldwide, a lot of people would be fired from their jobs due to companies and corporations losing more money than they gain. In order to minimize losses, firing employees is unfortunately inevitable at times. The question that follows is whether or not we, the consumers, are responsible for those who provide us with unnecessary goods and services. The answer is, of course, no. We live in a world that is largely built on free-market economies , which leads to competition between various providers. As a result, it is not our responsibility to ensure the sustainability of businesses that sell unnecessary goods and services. Consumerism has not blurred the distinction between wants and needs . Rather, it is conformity and herd mentality that lead to the false blurring of desire and necessity. There is now the notion that we "ought" to be "like everyone else," in the sense that we "need" to be accepted as normal within our social circles. This, in turn, leads to peer pressure to buy unnecessary things in order to fit in. In addition, the way most of us use language is also a factor in the blurring of need and want. We often use words like "must" and "need" to convince ourselves and others that we need to do something or buy something in order to live a well-lived life. However, what constitutes a well-lived life is up to interpretation, and there are many different ways to live a fulfilling life. Managing an article empire won't necessarily be fulfilling to you, as it is to me. This is also how clickbait works. By telling us in the headline of an article or video that we need or must consume it, content creators encourage more traffic to their products, which in turn increases the financial sustainability of said products. Ultimately, it all comes down to how much money product providers can make by convincing you to purchase and consume their products. The use of necessity, even if false, is often a good way to make money , by giving you a reason to do so, even if that reason is deceptive in nature. Make your brand embedded within society, and you can increase the chances of others consuming your unnecessary products. You don't need a McDonalds just because you're hungry, and you don't need CocaCola just because you're thirsty. No. You need to eat and to drink. Whatever else you may consume specifically, isn't the necessity when you have plenty of other options. The ascetic knows this well. Consumerism is therefore important for people whose jobs are to sell you things you don't need. By convincing you that you "need" or "must" have them, you increase at least for a bit, the duration of their positions in those jobs. That includes the duration of their own companies as well. This makes consumerist culture necessary for one category of people, but not for the customers. That's assuming said products are indeed unnecessary for a well-lived life. And can you live a well-lived life, having a nutrition that's both tasty and healthy? If you can, then many brands are unnecessary, despite their consumption, and their positive affect on our wellbeing.

(For Philosocom's directory for articles on money, click here) Article Overview by Mr. J. Igwe and Co. The article "Wisdom To Consider in Finances" provides practical advice on managing personal finances, aiming to help readers protect their assets, avoid unnecessary debt, and make prudent financial choices. It is written in a straightforward manner, making it accessible to a wide range of readers regardless of their financial expertise. The tips provided are practical and based on common financial challenges, making the article's relevance to everyday financial management more appealing. Mr. Tomasio covers a variety of financial topics, from basic cybersecurity practices to more complex decisions like taking loans and signing prenuptial agreements. This holistic approach to financial management addresses multiple dimensions that affect one's financial health . The advice consistently emphasizes the importance of being cautious and prepared, such as saving money for unforeseen circumstances and discussing prenuptial agreements. In conclusion, "Wisdom To Consider in Finances" offers valuable, common-sense advice that can benefit anyone looking to improve their financial management practices.   (Background music) ******************* Introduction In today's fast-paced world, managing personal finances can often feel overwhelming, as life can become expensive quite easily. With countless financial products and services hunting for our attention, it's easy to get lost in the noise. Yet, should one adopt a few simple, yet effective strategies, he or she can take better care of our finances and secure their future. In this article, I will explore seven tips that can help you make informed financial decisions and achieve your long-term goals. From safeguarding your digital assets to making wise investment choices , these practical guidelines can help the reader to navigate the complexities of modern life with confidence. The List 1. Keep a physical list of all your passwords in case you don't remember them all. That way, it should be easier to protect your various accounts, including your credit card and bank account. No one wants their credit card data stolen by suspicious people. Also, make sure your list of passwords is extensive enough, so it will not match a password in another account of yours. In case you keep too many identical passwords, you increase your risk of being hacked . It seems very easy to lose one's password nowadays, and even more, to have one or two passwords alone. That notion is a dangerous one, so take that close to mind. 2. Take loans only when necessary/no other choice. The deeper you'll find yourself in debt, the harder it would be for you to get out of it. Debt is like quicksand , as it easy to sink in it. You should not take loans for your addictions, because then, it only shows how your addictions cost you. Perhaps the severe problem of debt further supports the degree fallacy and the same result problem. Also, take loans from credible sources, not from loan sharks , or random people whom you don't necessarily trust. It's far better to take a loan from your bank, while making sure you can also afford the interest added to it. Don't just choose whatever loan because you need the money; try making sure you'll be able to return all that you've taken and the required to pay in addition. 3. Don't put your valuables in your pocket/s because they could be stolen by pickpockets. I myself never liked wallets because I find them counter intuitive. As long as you carry your pack or any other, bigger container, it's far more difficult to have it stolen than it is to steal something small like wallets, ID cards, phones and so on. And to put it all in a wallet is like putting all of your eggs in one, easy-to--take basket. The risk here being not only the ability to steal it but also your potential lack of awareness when the stealing occurs. No one wants their credit card in a stranger's hand. 4. Don't buy something just because "everyone else" buys it. That is the falsehood of being trendy . The fact that many people buy something specific, does not mean that it's good, functional or even worth the money. We should look at a product by itself, and not by its popularity gained from its consumers alone. 5. Avoid gambling at all costs for a steady life . By gambling I refer to betting with your money, of course, even on your, well, smartphone . It might give you some thrill at the time, but it has the power to destroy your life, too. With gambling, it is quite easy to lose a ton of money, especially if you're rich and if you're addicted to it. Those who are poorer than most should avoid gambling even more as that could send them from their apartments, to live in the streets. 6. Save your money, for it could be crucial one day. Who knows? Maybe you will need it for something you require doing but can't afford, such as paying for hospital bills. Maybe you will accidently break the law and be required to pay a fine as punishment. Maybe your landlord or landlady will decide to raise your rent, and you'll need more money to pay for your home. Since life is uncertain, and especially the future, be prepared not only mentally but financially. Furthermore, You can save money as a method to acquire wealth. 7. If you are going to get married, consider signing a prenuptial agreement . No one should be offended by this possibility, because any couple could get divorced one day. Because of this, both of you need to consider which belongs to whom, and that includes money, too. That way, should you get divorced, the process can be far, far less stressful, exhausting and of course, costly financially. It can also help you save yourselves and your children a lot of stress caused by inheritance wars . Conclusion By following these practical tips and considering the broader financial landscape, one can take significant steps towards securing their financial future. Financial wisdom is not about accumulating wealth, but about managing it wisely. Should one make more-informed choices and adopt a more-refined approach to his or her finances, they can improve their peace of mind and their financial stability. Thank you for your attention, and I hope I contributed. To help my contribution effort further, or if you want to help someone you know about this, feel free to share.

(The Undead Metaphor's Directory: https://www.philosocom.com/post/a-new-type-of-undead-and-my-background-story Poem Introduction A solitary sage , adrift in the boundless ocean of thought. Isolated from the noisy world , they delve into the abyss of existence, pondering the very fabric of reality . The nature of consciousness, the temporary essence of the human condition—these are the enigmas that captivate his mind. As days extend into weeks, weeks into months, and months into years, the grey philosopher's thoughts deepen, intertwining like the roots of an ancient tree. A solitary island, adrift in the never ending sea of humanity's content matrix. Yet, in this isolation, he finds solace, a freedom unburdened by the shackles of societal expectations whose mark he refuses bearing. His ultimate goal is to transcend the mortal coil, and ascend to a realm of pure thought. To share these profound insights, to ignite the spark of curiosity in the minds of others. A legacy, carved within the annals of human thought, and proof to the enduring power of the solitary thinker... (Background music) The Poem Itself As weeks past by, They become months, And as months go, They become years, Until century after century, Go through the one, Known as the Grey Philosopher. Life for him is but a distraction, So they go to be in isolation, For the reminder of existence, Pondering about the only thoughts, That keeps them, Between life and death. They are so deep in thought, They will not contact anybody, Even if contact is attempted to be made. The more lasting they are, The more thoughts will manifest, To protect them in their stead, From outside intervention. They want to be alone, so why fear? All you have to do is not to interfere. They love no one, And no one loves them. That is not a worthy concern, In contrast to whatever is on their mind, And even if humankind, Is to be eradicated by plague, In pure isolation, this figure will reside, Like an uncracked egg. They look around them, And they see how temporary it all is, They can't help but to think, What is it all for, When one can spend The entirety of their existence, In pure contemplations, That can last, Even the strongest of nations. Now, we might not be undead immortals, But here's what we can be: Conveyors, couriers of insights, Carried around and round, Like in an elementary school's game. Round and round goes the thesis, Of one who is long dead. One after the other, Naturally, die also, but not instead. It is added, then multiplied, Like a fountain of many stories, That is what it's like, To pass down the past's worries, Forward, into the future, Where the Idea will feature, In hopes that, even after one dies, Many will continue to meet her. Until the end of time, Until there will be none left, And the universe will say silent of sentience, Like a mime. Bouncing back and forth, Goes the philosopher's thoughts, Up and down, left and right, And then spread into the world, By those who are not afraid To be largely heard. To be a Grey Philosopher is pure egotism, But to be both a thinker and a distributor -- That should be preferred, far more. Why just think for yourself, When you can dedicate a medium on your behalf, And spread your ideas, your insight, Until you will lack the might, To do so, Until your retirement or death, Which will be your ultimate foe? Nonetheless, the Grey do not seem to realize, That their thoughts are not ones to weaponize, Against those whom you could be of use; Otherwise, both sides lose!

(Background music) (Philosocom's Subcategory Directory on Despair and Surrender) Article Summary by Mr. O. C. Isaac "Giving Up Your Privacy For Products" is a comprehensive exploration of the ethical implications of data collection in the digital economy. The article delves into the trade-off between personal privacy and the use of online products and services, offering readers a nuanced perspective on this increasingly relevant topic. The article's strengths include its timely and relevant topic, clear structure and flow, effective use of sources and examples, balanced perspective , engaging writing style, and call to action. It condemns data collection practices but also acknowledges the conveniences and benefits of modern digital products. The conversational tone combined with rhetorical questions and reflective statements captures the reader's attention and provokes deeper thought. Overall, "Giving Up Your Privacy For Products" is a commendable piece that thoughtfully examines the ethical dimensions of privacy in the digital age. Our Digital Footprint: Why Online Privacy Matters In this time and age, of "Smart Industries"/4.0 Industries, every single online activity can have a financial and informational value. To quote a Usercentrics article: Your activity on the internet is valuable. Both in terms of time and money. In fact, everything you do – including everywhere you click, all the pages you browse and anything you buy – is valuable to some company somewhere. Your internet activity and data are collected, processed and sold daily by a variety of companies, websites and analysis firms. Why? So they can use that data to sell to you again, or sell it to others for a profit. Data collection and sale are a huge part of the modern digital economy. From sole proprietor online shops to tech giants like Google and Facebook, user data is used for everything to do with sales, marketing, product development, user experience, and more. Each of your online actions can be recorded and used to either sell it to third parties, or be stored in an organization's database . This is done to better learn about its users' activities when they consume its online products, such as websites, apps, and even gaming consoles. That is done using cookies, which are trackers used to contain your data. In the name of having better products, we give in our virtual information through its tracking, thus not having to deal with the same result problem of communicating directly to users. This greatly damages our right to privacy, even though we ourselves, technically, choose to do so by agreeing, directly or indirectly, to an organization's privacy policy. Whether we actually took the time to read it or not, is our own responsibility, and no one else's. By the way, Philosocom also has a privacy policy, along with a service level agreement. Why Privacy Policies Matter More Than You Think It's easy to blame ourselves for skipping online contracts. We click "I agree" without a second thought, just to gain access to that new app or game. However, playing the "blame game" will get us nowhere if we refuse to learn from our mistakes. In this case we should at least try to understand any online contract before we agree to it. This feature should be a part of any philosophy of any technology user, looking to improve the ethical way they use the internet for. However, in some cases the reality is more complex. Many products create a "black or white" situation: agree and use the product, or disagree and be left out of its use entirely. This can be especially frustrating for internet-connected devices like gaming consoles. An example for that being Injustice 2. You either accept to the terms, or are denied to play it even though you paid for it. According to the Isotopic game store company: If you further research the topic, you’ll find out that you actually do not own the games, and never had. What you do “own” is the digital license to use them, with many different systems working against having access to the files that you’ve paid for! Even if we protest against privacy breaches, companies can point to our consent. After all, clicking "I agree" sets the terms in action. Being concerned about privacy we exchanged in favor of goods we may deem too low-value to even trade our privacy for, is known as "The Privacy Paradox". This paradox is solved when we will be more inclined to be observant towards the actions we do, and ask ourselves if the content or product we consumed, worth the sacrifice of our right for privacy. The situation gets even trickier when products demand unnecessary permissions. Location tracking, for example, can be used to recommend social media connections based on mere proximity. A research paper explains this with a concrete example: Foursquare was a mobile social networking application that enabled people to share location with friends in the form of “check-ins.” The visualization of surrounding known social connections as well as unknown others has the potential to impact how people coordinate social encounters and forge new social ties. This is a creepy reminder of just how much corporations can learn about us, and on the importance of limiting them in the name of our personal freedoms. Additionally, camera access, microphone access and even phone calls are other potential privacy breaches hidden within agreements. You need to read the contract so you won't regret it later. Not only as an individual but also if you happen to be a head of a company! Here's why reading privacy policies and terms of service is crucial. It's not just about following rules, it's about understanding what you're giving up in exchange. Ask yourself such questions, and make it a habit: Is the convenience of this app worth sacrificing my privacy? Is the thrill of that game worth constant location tracking? Should issues such as popularity, novelty and instant gratification in a product or trend come at the cost of our personal data? Even if you're short on time, skimming these documents can make a difference, as it's, you know, better than nothing. Look for the central points of each section, and consider generally improving your skimming skills . Remember, your choice to consent (or not) holds more weight than you might initially think. Bonus: The Era When Privacy Wasn't the Price of Access Remember the golden age of gaming? The PS2 era , where you could pop in a disc and play without surrendering your personal data. Or the pre-social media internet , where communication thrived without having to live in an era similar to the one portrayed by George Orwell's 1984 . Looking back, Orwell's cautionary tale feels strangely similar to the virtual world we live in today, with the rise of spreading misinformation through deception and internet surveillance. I often miss, with my nostalgia bias, the days where I could simply enjoy a certain game without philosophizing about worldly affairs. I philosophize not only because I enjoy it, but also because I choose to care for the world and help others. The Bottom Line and Philosocom Demanding so much personal information is often excessive, although excessiveness could be a good thing . Companies claim that personal data helps them understand their user base . However, even that purpose seems intrusive in the face of privacy concerns. The bigger issue? Once information is surrendered, some platforms can know about you more than the creepiest of stalkers. Even "free" products come at a cost – your data becomes a company's resource, fuelling their power and influence. And as private enterprises, they answer primarily to lawsuits, not a user's right to privacy. After all, most of us already "agreed" to hand our privacy over. Here's my dilemma: social media is a powerful tool for reaching an audience , which is a necessity in today's competitive world. While I acknowledge the privacy's sacrifice, I still use it. I know I enable, like many others, a culture of sacrifice . And indeed, if I didn't want to contribute to humanity, I'd forsaken it. That includes you, who read me. But despite my efforts, I dream of a world that values privacy, more than corporate domination. Isn't that a future worth fighting for? I wholeheartedly avoid spying on my readership using heatmaps for a reason. This is a philosophy blog, not an evil lair.

Articles on Nihilism: ( https://www.philosocom.com/post/true-nihilism-how-it-s-possible-to-become-fearless https://www.philosocom.com/post/the-cult-of-kefka-nihilism-as-a-spectrum https://www.philosocom.com/post/the-each-new-day-problem https://www.philosocom.com/post/how-to-understand-the-joker-the-anti-philosopher https://www.philosocom.com/post/how-to-live-despite-the-struggle https://www.philosocom.com/post/tomasio-rubinshtein-a-25-year-old-philosopher-s-autobiography https://www.philosocom.com/post/why-i-m-not-a-nihilist The Power of the Void -- How To Embrace Reality's Emptiness ) (Background music) **************************************** Part I: How Nihilism Can Lead to Unexpected Happiness The irony of nihilism is that it can be a surprisingly easy path to happiness, depending on the point of view you choose to believe in. Unlike those who seek a grand purpose or an exalted meaning in life, nihilists are free from the pressure of such quests. Think about the stress of having a salaryman's mindset. Think about those who choose to live so others wouldn't die. Its stressful, isn't it? Of course there is an element of stress in living a meaningful life, whether under a meritocracy, where you have to prove your worth, or in a class-based society like a monarchy, where you have a noble reputation to maintain in order to maintain your relevancy. However, a lack of dependence on external validation creates a shorter route to contentment, in an Occam's Razor kind of mindset . Nihilists, who reject meaning, don't need to carry the weight of feeling deeply significant to find satisfaction. By the same token, they don't need to do deeply-significant things in order to feel satisfied. The idea that one has to, is something I call "The Conqueror's Flaw". Becoming a mighty conqueror, for instance, can still make you feel unsatisfied. How Misconception Leads to Agony and The Role Of Subjectivity In Reality The true positivity of nihilism lies in its ability to approach life without taking it too seriously or imbuing it with the sacredness many people consider "objective". However, the value we regard things is more subjective and intersubjective than it is objective. And thus, because of this higher regard, we put ourselves in great misery, often unnecessarily. Without a flexible mind, we won't necessarily realize how much of our suffering unnecessarily comes from this idea of "objective meaning". However, can we verify objectivity, when we're never pure from subjectivity and from the biases that come along with it? How can we verify objectivity when we all have different values and priorities and ambitions? How can I expect anyone to hold respect in the same regard I do? I can't, because much of morality, which stems from meaning, is subject to our priorities and beliefs. As noble as the Bushido code is, it is no wonder that the age of the Samurai is long over. How come? We have moved on to other priorities, at the price of moral depravity. We cannot expect people to even agree they're morally depraved. Then, beyond helping those who want to be helped, what's the point of suffering when we can instead learn the priorities of others, and act accordingly? Do we even have to help anyone? We only "have" to in the name of whatever vision we have in mind for our lives and/or for this world. That vision, too, is subject to perception. And, should we choose to have no vision, of course many of us would live/desire to live like good-for-nothing klumniks. See how our subjective perceptions say much about the inability of countless people to just live, with or without meaning. This inner emptiness within us compels us to build empires, thinking that the success of our values will give us the peace of mind we seek. It won't necessarily, however. Understanding this, I stopped looking for peace of mind, for I know I might as well always be unsatisfied. It is a painful reality I accept. How Meaning Imprisons You In a Basement of Loneliness We're often told that a predetermined meaning is the key to a fulfilling life, and that meaningfulness is synonymous with happiness . However, this rigid framework can be restrictive, and ironically, may compel us to sacrifice our happiness and health. No matter how meaningful a life you live thanks to your success, you can still find yourself misreable and lonely at the top... As if you were an eccentric social reject at highschool. Think about geniuses like Alan Turing, who was bullied at school, and even later on were rejected and harrassed. He was as strange and lonely with or without his mathematical brilliance. To quote Prof. Max Newman: He was a strange man, who never felt at ease in any place. His efforts, mostly occasional indeed, to look like he felt a part of the middle upper class circles which he naturally belonged to, were clumsy. He randomly adopted some conventions of his class, but rejected with no regret and hesitation most of their habits and ideas. And unfortunately the academic world's customs, which could have sheltered him, disconcerted and deeply bored him. This loneliness and suffering won't necessarily change even if you revolutionize humanity. I call this the Drug Lord's Fallacy. Lonely and rejected nonetheless, you might wonder what worth was it all for? What worth are empires and wealth if you're still as lonely as you were before? Either go on the straight and narrow, or break bad -- with all your contributions you can still die alone as Nikola Tesla. Perhaps we shouldn't attach our mental health to meaning and recognition, after all? Nihilists could have a certain flexibility when it comes to happiness (or unhappiness, for that matter). Their emotional state doesn't hinge on the presence or absence of meaning. While they might be less productive or contribute less to society in a traditional sense , they can find contentment more readily than those burdened by the belief that happiness requires a philosophical justification. They are, in a way, free to simply be happy. However, for that, we need to let go of the anger and disappointment of our under-valued importance. I let "Ms. Chen" go accordingly. As one who seeks purpose , I'll suffer either way. I am prepared. Part II: How Nihilism Parallels Asceticism Well, people got attatched. Once you cut the umbilical cord they [get] attatched to the other things. Sight, sound, sex, money, mirages... -- Charles Bukowski Nihilists approach purposefulness in a similar way that ascetics approach financial materialism : they transcend the need for external factors to find a satisfying life. For nihilists, the joy of a simple cup of coffee can be as profound as an artist's pursuit of a masterpiece. The only difference is, they put none of these in high regard. The key difference is not that coffee becomes their purpose, but rather that their sense of fulfillment can be as simple as a dog receiving treats. The act itself, in this case savoring a cup of coffee , holds the potential for the same level of joy as the artist's creative expression. It is equally nice, as it is equally irrelevant to the nihilist. It's important to acknowledge the spectrum of nihilistic experiences. The spectrum depends on the outcome. Be as careless as Charles Bukowski, or seek to destroy the world like an insane clown. If a nihilist grapples with the concept of inherent meaninglessness and feels a personal need for meaning for satisfaction, then depression can certainly arise. On the other hand, accepting the lack of inherent meaning and simply not caring about it can lead to a state of unburdened happiness. The core principle of nihilism is the belief that existence lacks inherent meaning. It doesn't dictate our emotional response to this notion or prescribe a specific way of life. Thinking it does, is a delusion. As such, some commonly held associations with nihilism are often generalizations or interpretations, not inherent parts of the philosophy/ideology itself. Part III: How Nihilism Parallels Atheism Just as atheism is often misunderstood as anti-religion , nihilism is frequently misinterpreted as a philosophy of despair, or as one that is anti-meaning. In reality, nihilism is simply the belief that life lacks inherent meaning or purpose. This core principle, however, doesn't dictate a specific way of living or feeling. It's a blank canvas upon which individuals paint their own interpretations, creating the nihilist spectrum. Atheism, at its core, is the lack of belief in gods. However, atheists can have vastly different reasons and outlooks on life. Some might be indifferent to religion, while others might be critical of its social or political influence. Similarly, nihilists approach the absence of inherent meaning in a variety of ways. It is like saying that atheism necessarily leads to communism because communism is atheist by nature, as determined by Karl Marx. However, what if the atheist just doesn't care about such things? Apathy destroys meaning simply by discarding it. It's that powerful. Apathy sneaks in at night and parades on in when everyone is watching. It’s a silent killer and it announces its presence from the sagging rooftops. Apathy gives no shits. That’s actually kind of its thing. It doesn’t try to hide and it feels no need to be subtle. No community is immune to its effects and it takes hold in rich and poor towns alike. Apathy is a lack of shame and it is devastating. It erodes everything people took generations to build and there is no corner of society it doesn't affect. -- Jeff Siegler However, freed from the pressure to find a grand purpose, nihilists can focus on doing the heck they want to do. They can also choose not to focus at all without the burden of meaning. Unattached, the nihilist can relish in chaos. Then... one could tell the link with psychopathy: There is a tangible link with nihilism, and the egocentricity of psychopathy. First of all, psychopaths may be regarded as moral nihilists . Secondly, psychopaths like an apathetic, disengaged and anomic society, where citizens lack conviction, and there’s an absence or erosion of moral values. -- Kitty S. Jones This is how destructive nihilism can truly be. Conclusion: Of Void And Perception The core tenet of nihilism – the absence of inherent meaning in life – can be a daunting starting point. It might conjure images of a bleak, purposeless existence. However, a deeper understanding reveals a more nuanced philosophy that allows for a surprising range of interpretations and experiences. The key takeaway lies in differentiating the basic premise from the subjective conclusions individuals draw from it. Nihilism doesn't dictate a specific way of life; it simply removes the assumption of preordained meaning. This newfound freedom can be liberating for some. Unburdened by societal expectations or the pressure to fulfill a cosmic purpose, they can forge their own path, defining their own values and creating their own meaning. However, the absence of inherent meaning can also be unsettling. It can lead to feelings of existential dread or a struggle to find purpose in a seemingly indifferent universe. This is where individual interpretations come into play. Some may embrace the absurdity of existence and find humor in the inherent meaninglessness, subverting our expectations . Others may channel this realization into a deep appreciation for the fleeting beauty of life, motivating them to live each moment to the fullest. Then, what kind of nihilist should one be if they seek nihilism? To be or not to be; who do YOU want to be? - - Tommy Wiseau

(Background music) As written before, generalizations are often easy to be proven wrong if they are to be taken literally, I.E, if we are to consider words such as "every" for what they really mean -- every single one or something within the generalization. Should we be more literal in our understanding, we can realize that many common arguments are just not true, with a certain example being the term " everything costs money ", which I will write about in this article. I will simply begin by arguing that there are activities, even if few, that do not require any payment; activities that the more you will do them, even, the more money you can gradually save instead of doing activities that require money from either you or someone else, like a parent. The 3 main free things in life are: resting/chilling out, sleeping and exercising. Theoretically, anyone can do them without the need to invest money, even though there are ways of doing them that indeed require paying, like a gym membership or yoga lessons to relieve one's stress. However, these are merely ways you can do them under paid settings. You can even sleep in the street for free, but having a roof under your head can be regarded as a "paid setting" as well. Regardless, these 3 activities prove that money won't buy you everything, as some things do not require it. Obviously, it can buy you a good bed, but it's possible to sleep on anything else that is comfortable, like the ground or, if you're homeless, on a public bench. Additionally, a good bed doesn't guarantee a successful sleep; ask any insomniac that question. You can also relax without paying for something to help; deep breaths, muscle relief, meditation , and even doing nothing -- all are commonly-free methods that do not require, mostly at least, any other pay but your time and self-discipline . People with certain disabilities, however, may be required to pay for relaxation pills for the rest of their lives, to help cope with their condition. Nonetheless, even the same mentioned activities can be a useful addition to anyone looking to relax without an extra cent. Even idly sitting or laying down can often suffice to reduce the levels of stress in one's body. Doing nothing, in general, has its own perks... Finally, when it comes to exercising -- as long as you're able to move your body, and are not completely paralyzed, you can be at least in good shape without paying a dime to the massive exercise industry. Ground exercise (sit-ups, push-ups, etc), walking, jogging and even dancing -- no one will charge you for doing these activities within the confines of your home or in a place such as a park. One doesn't need to be muscular in order to be in good shape, and more importantly -- in good health. Think of all the money you can save by using cheaper, if not completely free, alternatives, that can give you good results. Being "cheap" is not that bad when one's resources can be invested otherwise while still getting the goals one was aiming for if they were to pay, like we are normally encouraged by consumerist culture to do. I will add something as a bonus for the more religious -- arguably, prayer too is free, and in some religions where monasticism and/ or asceticism exists , it can also be done in solitude, without going to public institutions nor even as a group. Religious hermits are a prime example of that. If one is simply theist without necessarily being very religious, coming up with one's own prayers won't cost you anything. Additionally, it can be combined with calming oneself, as repetitive thoughts, such as mantra, can greatly help. I will conclude by claiming that the more solitary you are and the more ascetically you live, you may feel compelled to pay for services you can provide to yourself (like the things mentioned earlier). In general, you need to be financially wiser when you live alone regardless. Unless you're an infant or a wilderness hermit, you'll pay money, but at least you can do your best to pay as little as possible -- and watch your bank account slowly grow, and grant you better financial security -- because not everything comes with a monetary price. (Edit: Yet another suggested free thing, suggested by a reader, is free advice ; the one that you can get, for example, when asking for directions, or one from a family member or a friend, and even on online forums, for various occasions and problems, from getting stuck in a video game level to troubles with one's romantic partner. Anonymously or otherwise. Having friends can get you that as well).

Article Synopsis by O. C. Isaac "Perception As Choice" is an insightful article that explores how personal perceptions shape our reality and influence our emotional responses and decisions. The central thesis is that perception is subjective, malleable, and greatly influenced by external factors such as socialization, personal experiences, and ideology. The article presents an important philosophical concept: the distinction between perception and objective reality, using relatable examples like dissatisfaction with a job to illustrate how perceptions, rather than reality itself, shape our experience. The article excels in linking philosophical concepts to practical advice, suggesting that by shifting our perspective, we can lead more fulfilling lives. It also successfully navigates between the abstract idea of controlling perception and the practical limitations of reality, reminding readers that perception alone cannot change reality. In conclusion, "Perception As Choice" is an engaging piece that raises important questions about the nature of reality and how much of it is shaped by individual perceptions.   "How much easier it is to manipulate perceived reality when viewed only through the filter of our personal screens" -- John Duran (Philosocom's Directory of Choice and Decision) Some may be surprised to realize that much of what we consider to be "reality" is simply a perception that we accept into our lives. This perception can be shaped by a variety of factors, including socialization, negative bias, and our own personal experiences. That is, even though there is a world beyond the mind. For example, if you happen to hate your job, it may not be purely because of the job itself. It could also be because of the way you perceive the job (many people treat jobs like mercenaries and not like salarymen ). If you have been taught that monetary gain is an exalted pursuit, and you work in a minimum wage job, it is only natural that you would be discontent with it, and perhaps even feel jealousy as a result . This is because the job goes against the directive you might've learned through socialization, that correlates success with financial materialism . In other words, much of our perception of reality is exactly that: a perception, and not necessarily reality itself. Our perception is not necessarily a part of external reality itself, and for a perception to be true, it has to meet a certain criteria regardless of our emotional relation towards it. This means that our perceptions can be changed, and that we can choose to see the world in a different way. Whether or not we want to acknowledge the truth, or deny it with or without awareness , is our own prerogative. For example, if you were to change your perspective on your job, you might start to see it in a more positive light. You might realize that jobs are not just about monetary gain, but also about helping others or making a difference in the world. This change in perception could lead to a more positive experience overall. You therefore may also find out that perception not only has a value in relation to the truth, but also in relation to practicality, necessary for your mental survival in this world. As such, while we may be inclined to face reality, we may also be inclined to think practically, in order to maintain our sanity. We might find out that we deny reality using our perception because the truth is too hard for us to bear, so we avoid it . It is also one of the reasons philosophy is not for everyone, because not everyone is mentally prepared for certain truths about reality. When you have a philosopher friend , you might find them hard to bear for that reason alone. The point is that we have the power to choose how we perceive the world, and no perception is necessarily forced on us . We may utilize this insight for our own individual and collective benefit, as perception, built under ideology, is a very powerful tool . We can choose to focus on the negative aspects of our lives, and we can choose to focus on the positive. Should we be resilient enough, we won't necessarily need to depend so much on either. That's because, among other things, resilience helps us cope with our problems and adapt to adversity better. Our perception of reality is shaped by our experiences and interactions with others. so it is important to be mindful of our thoughts and beliefs. After all, they are tools that can be indirectly used to shape our emotions and mental state. Thus, controlling our thoughts can lead to a better regulation of our emotions Our perception of reality is shaped by our experiences and interactions with others. This perception is not necessarily "real" in the same way that a physical object is real, but it is real to us and to anyone who shares our perspective. Our perceptions can have a profound impact on our decisions and our overall well-being. For example, someone who grew up in a family that struggled with unemployment might be more content to have a job, even if it's minimum-wage. This is because their perception of what it means to have a job might be different from someone who grew up in a family where everyone had a good job. By the same token, what one may perceive as completely granted may be valued dearly by another. Similarly, someone who believes that monetary gain is not important may be content with a lower-paying job. This is because their perception of what is important in life is different from someone who believes that money is the most important thing. Altruists may be more inclined to give to others in general , because they may have the perspective that tells them that they already have enough for themselves. It is important to be aware of our own perceptions and to understand how they are affecting our lives. If we are unhappy with our current situation, we can challenge our perceptions and try to see things in a new light. This can be a difficult process, but it is possible to change our perceptions and improve our lives. By the way, one of the points of philosophy is to challenge our perceived reality. When Socrates said that he knows nothing , it can be apply to ourselves as well, by challenging our beliefs of something as "knowledge". One way to challenge our perceptions is to think about the experiences that have shaped them. What have we been taught about what is important in life? What have our experiences taught us about what is possible? Once we understand the roots of our perceptions, we can start to question them, because it is then that we understand that they are questionable. Much of perceived reality can be questioned. I actually managed to reduce my sensitivity by treating any content like a butcher, when I realized that we do not have to treat intensive content dramatically. Our choice of reaction to anything, remains ours. The more we can control it, the better. Another way to challenge our perceptions is to expose ourselves to new experiences, even if they risk us to a degree. This could mean talking to people who have different perspectives, traveling to new places, or trying new things. By expanding our horizons, we can start to see the world in ways we would otherwise not have thought of as possible. The point is to challenge our beliefs, and convince ourselves they can be changed, using these experiences as proof. Changing our perceptions is not always easy for we are, most often than not, attached to them. However, it's possible because hardship does not entail impossibility by itself. By being aware of our own biases and by challenging our assumptions, we can start to see the world in a new light. This can lead to a more fulfilling and satisfying life, and also make us better aware of the truth. In the show "Spongebob Squarepants," the main character, Spongebob, works as a fry cook at a fast food restaurant. Despite the fact that his job is low-paying and his boss is often mean to him, Spongebob remains optimistic and happy. This is because Spongebob has a different perception of what is important in life, which is having friends and having fun . He believes that it is more important to be happy and to enjoy your work than it is to make a lot of money. His unrealistic, optimistic perception towards work is what makes his experience as a low-paid worker, far, far more bearable. Spongebob's co-worker, Squidward, has a different perception of what is important in life. Squidward is more concerned with money and status than he is with having fun or having friends. This is why Squidward is often unhappy and dissatisfied with his job, as he is also paid poorly like his co-worker. The contrast between Spongebob and Squidward shows how our perceptions can have a profound impact on our lives and on our mentality. Spongebob is happy and fulfilled because he has a different perception of what is important in life. Squidward is unhappy and dissatisfied because he does not share Spongebob's values, despite living and working in the same environment as him. Squidward wants to change his reality, but is powerless to do so, while Spongebob likes it just the way it is. Thus, due to his lack of power to lead the life he wants, Squidward's perception is impractical, even if it's in line with reality, while Spongebob is almost delusional, but far more practical mentally. The next time you are feeling unhappy or dissatisfied with your life, take a step back and think about your perceptions. What are your assumptions about what is important in life? How have your experiences shaped your perceptions? And still remember this: Reality cannot be changed by perception alone . You can't make yourself a cup of coffee by visualizing it being made without any action on your end. Never underestimate the value of power, for power leads to action. Allocate your perception to what you're capable of, or what you want to be capable of, and can be capable of. P ower is everything.

(Background music) Unfortunately, we are not machines that can do anything as long as we are able to. We are partially confined to our emotional and mental energies , although they can be partially surpassed with enough training and discipline . However, pushing ourselves too hard can take a toll on our health. If we were automatic machines with no need to recharge beyond nutrition and fluids, we would create supreme industries and maximize our production within our current and future roles in the machinery that is human civilization. We could do anything that an undesired organism would refuse to do, or at least would find it very hard to do because of lack of motivation and discipline. If we didn’t need to rely on our willpower for our efforts, we could do anything that our bodies, minds, and machinery are physically or mentally capable of. Imagine what a world that would be! The following list is merely an ideal. People wouldn't demand high salaries for jobs as a source of motivation (AKA greed , not necessarily something that's vital for survival) People wouldn't need all the complex of social and romantic drama and excitement just to reproduce. (AKA lust and emotional instabilities ) People wouldn't suffer from addictions, because addictions rely on the person wanting to consume the addicting substance or action. There would be no r***s because willpower is also existent in sexuality (AKA unwise temptations) Laziness would be non-existent, because no willpower would make us feel good by being lazy or by procrastinating (AKA slothfulness) People would be more physically healthy because they would only need to know the benefit of physical activity in order to become more fit and strong. (AKA, discipline and determination) Candies, drugs, alcohol, addictive video games —they would serve no function because people would not need to fight against their willpower for the sake of their wellbeing. (AKA, wasteful addictions). There would be no corruption , because corruption is based on temptation, which is one of the faces of willpower (Like taking a bribe and be caught). Students would do their homework without complaining, if they realized the benefit of a good education (AKA, endurance). What can we do if willpower is the fuel and engine that motivates us to do specific things and avoid other things, regardless of their nature? Willpower is important because it serves as our primary motivation to commit some activities and discard the rest, and the more willpower we possess, the more motivated and, perhaps, successful, we would be by achieving said things. This also serves as a double-edged sword, because our willpower can be against our own good, like when it is abused by addicting substances such as alcohol. The more we base our actions on mere willpower, AKA, on whether we like to do something or not, the more dependent we shall be on that willpower and its level of dominance on us, rather than relying on our knowledge and the benefits or the damage we commit and inflict on others or on ourselves, or both. This is why I recommend not to heavily rely on willpower alone , because willpower is a temporary and a limited energy. Acting outside of it, allows us some more energy, even if far from infinite. It's part of what endurance is. Knowledge and awareness are more beneficial to rely upon as our sources of actions because they are more solid and more convincing for the long-term. Convincing practically, of course. Practically. Likewise, work doesn't have to be a desired activity, but when we know it is imperative to our financial sustainability , that knowledge will indeed motivate us to work, even if we do not currently desire it. Willpower is nothing more than a biochemical reaction that can change anytime, whatever the circumstances are, and it's not necessarily under our control, as we cannot force ourselves to do something we do not desire to do... Unless we act independently of our desires! It is therefore foolish to rely completely on willpower, like children do. We should look at the bigger picture and view ourselves as more than the current emotion we are feeling. In other words, we should not do things primarily because we want to, but because we are aware of the benefits and the possible results of our actions . Because we have priorities and values of our own. Because our willpower can stand in our way, and not just support and motivate us, to do things that are beneficial for us or our ambitions. This is why, if possible and if it is a healthy choice, our actions should be motivated by knowledge and benefit, instead of mere momentary feeling, even though such feeling can indeed be immensely helpful if it exists within us when something is to be done. So, it would be sensible to treat emotions not as our superior officers, but as our pawns. In conclusion , even though we do not have infinite energy, it's logically possible to act outside of whatever our desire currently tells us to do or avoid. It is our choice as to obey it or otherwise. Should we be stronger in spirit, the extant of our actions and potential will grow significantly. Some suffering might be required for that end, as suffering can make us more resilient beings. The problem with the pursuit of our desires comes when it weakens our resolve , and thus, our endevours. That's especially true, when we choose them over hardship (such as choosing unhealthy food, over committing to a physical training regime). We need to make sure reluctancy does not get in the way, either. Especially if it stands in the way of attaining information that is actually useful for us and/or others. If desire hinders us, we should not obey it so blindly. We should not act on petty emotion. Now go and cool your head, for a while.

(Background music) Introduction Herd mentality is a phenomenon that has always existed among humans. However, it is now more heavily recorded in the media every day, and thus can have a greater influence than ever before. It is also more tolerated than ever before as long as one's life is not threatened in the process (Like in the case of cancel culture, which can lead people to lose their jobs, and not only hinder their freedom of speech ). However, one can overcome the tyranny of the herd mentality by adopting the following traits and by improving them through regular practice: Courage It is very difficult to upset or disappoint our fellow companions in the journey of life - family, friends, partner, colleagues. It is hard to see them suffer or even insult us just because we decided to do something that contradicts their expectations of us. However, courage is a necessity to overcome offenses from other people and to admit and live with the fact that sometimes we have our own thoughts, feelings, and motives that do not always have to correlate with those of others. I once went near a tennis court, and a tennis ball was accidentally thrown near me. One of the players asked me to retrieve the ball, but I said that I was in a hurry (and I really was). The player got mad and called me a "moronic kid." I was deeply insulted, but I knew that people in a hurry are not by definition morons. It gave me the courage to continue to walk away. To admit that we are flawed beings, and to embrace our flaws , that requires courage as well. The courage to admit: "I can't necessarily be at the same standards other people expect me reach". And one of the functions of herd mentality is the expectation for you to conform. Logic Logic is what usually convinces people to put their beliefs into something and to do certain deeds. Syndicate-type organizations form, for example, out of the logical interest that being under a union will benefit the self or their faction. The more logically correct and believable a belief is, the more convincing it will become to other people who are exposed to this logical structure. However, for a better understanding of logic, one that surpasses mere appearance of appeal, we must become more logical beings. Because people are convinced by logic, even with the weakest of logics, social structures and ceremonies are built. However, they often become absurd when they are normalized , and then their followers/practitioners are compelled to follow/practice them due to the herd mentality rather than a reason independent of it. If one wants to overcome the herd mentality, one should enforce their non-conformity with a proper logical structure to support their abstaining from the herd mentality. Just because there is a large enforcement of a certain belief by a large number of people (for example, believing in a certain popular deity or even creating a fanbase around a privileged idol ), it does not mean that a single individual cannot overcome their own logic. For logic, you see, is not a popularity contest, even though the philosopher is often has to resort to appeal to their audience's reason in order to not be regarded a crackpot theorist. To lay the foundations for overcoming this mentality, the individual should contemplate and ponder about the following questions: Why do I wish to overcome the herd mentality? What do I want to achieve in this, and why do I wish to actualize the said ambitions? What are the consequences of doing so? Would I be satisfied with the results? If so, at what cost? If not, is my cause in my perspective a justified cause, regardless of the cost? What would I lose and what would I earn in this solitary revolution against the masses? Ask yourself these questions, and attempt to answer them to the best of your ability. The more logically-convincing your answers are (even convincing to yourself), the more acceptance you will earn from others and for yourself. Thus, the easier the task will be with the decreasing withdrawal of guilt, shame, and negative isolation. If you're able to convince yourself like you would be able to convince others, choosing to deviate from the herd should be less difficult. Some may even support or follow you, if you've managed to speak not only to their minds but also to their hearts. Responsibility Standing all by yourself against the masses and their beliefs is not an easy thing. Regardless of the reason that made you wish to overcome their mentality, it is all your “fault” for being against the popular beliefs and practices. Seeing the masses from the viewpoint of a single person in an empty field (even if the said person has family and friends) can be a very isolating experience. The herd is living as if nothing, even for eons, has been done under the sun; as if outsiders deserve to be condemned for being outsiders, despite the importance of being an outsider, to society. And what is this importance I speak of? The philosopher often ought to be solitary , for example, in order to view and criticize society from an "eagle's point of view". In turn, society could benefit from his or her criticism by understanding its flaws, and working on itself further to improve. Despite the contribution involved, that said person may find himself completely alone even in the midst of the most social of conventions. While in this ideologically solitary state of mind and being, few, and even none, may be the people who can agree upon your own systems of beliefs. It is your responsibility to demonstrate, and not merely state, that your deviation from general society is one in which people can benefit from. Then, your status as an outsider can be seen as functional, rather than dysfunctional. That is necessary for relevancy especially to those who are more different by nature than most people, as people like them, like myself, need to prove our worth more, or else we'll be discarded. Skepticism Skepticism is the most fundamental aspect of being a black sheep. It is the act of being in disagreement with a certain or a set of subjects and the execution of issues. When in doubt, an outcast of the herd cannot find any answers but in him or herself only, as doubt is what tears the herd apart . Taking doubt on something, regardless of conformity, is a very courageous act, and it is vital for one's own development, and perhaps, also for the possible development of others (in the case of making practical use of criticism). Being skeptical is like working on a muscle on a regular basis of workouts. The more you doubt, the more your mind will be challenged and more used to it, it will become. Just like working out, being skeptical is an action that requires strength, and sometimes, rest. Habits can be broken by turning other activities into new habits as replacements. After being skeptical about a certain subject, one needs to rest and find other occupations, so he or she will be recharged. Like with muscles, it's how we become stronger on the intellectual level, making intellectual skills like philosophizing into a regular practice. Indeed, the intellectual is a mentally strong person, like the fit person is physically strong. The dumbbells of the intellectual are his or her skills to produce and reasonable doubts against previously-agreed agreed concepts. Being skeptical is being a reformer : to reshape a certain issue and transform it into a new one, through a synthesis of old ideas with new ideas. Therefore, the overcomer is not only an intellectual, but an artist of ideas, a producer of potentially something new and original. The herd mentality is defined by a lack of willingness to be open to new ideas. Even if these ideas are helpful and beneficial, the herd won't be likely to accept anything that challenges its beliefs. Therefore, this mentality is defined by the irrationality of refusing to accept anything that contradicts their narrative. That is even if their narrative is either false, or can have its flaws reduced by innovative and creative viewpoints And for such viewpoints to be formed, existing viewpoints need to be questioned. Final Words I hope this article will help fighting, even by a bit, against the power of herd mentality; especially in this age of social media and mockery against more-eccentric behaviors, online and offline. If you enjoyed reading this, consider sharing it if desired.

If there is few things that we all deserve, Whether we are as pure as a dog or terrible as a hyena, Are simply as follow: A place to be, so we would exist, A place to breathe, so we would live, And a place to sleep , so we will not die. Whether you are kind as a child or bloodthirsty as a tyrant, Rest assured that you need all of those, Regardless of what you will do, are doing, or have done, Throughout the journey of life. The right of space is one that is left unnoticed, As it is already understood that we need a place to inhibit. However, especially because it is so imperative, It is thus the reason why we all need those, Without any exception whatsoever, Including those who are about to die, suddenly. Why do we all deserve to sleep eventually? It is like the wall that supports a building; Without it, the house will crumble And ruin anything and anyone in its way. Thus even the most brutal of murderers Deserves at least a few hours of sleep, So their sanity will not crumble against their eyes, And their reality ruined by the hallucinations Of a sleep-deprived mind. Should a great villain be captured, Even if they will not get a decent bed, No one has said a sleep as to be completely comfortable. Finally, we all need air in order to live beyond existence. That is pretty much understood. Only those who are about to legitimately die by the State's law, Do not deserve to breathe, At least at the exact time that they are to be executed. Other than that, even on death row one deserves to breathe and to sleep. Do we all deserve to have a good meal, or be hydrated? Depends on the situation, and thus both are excluded From this Principle. If one is to be tortured to death, they do not necessarily Need a fine meal before their death. Obviously, whether or not torture-to-death is legitimate is another matter. But even if you are a regular man or woman, Make sure you have enough space to move, Enough air to breathe, And a good night's rest, For these 3 are the greatest necessities you can give To yourself, As a tribute to the body that keeps you alive, And to your yet-to-be-snapped mind. (3 Places Principle)

The difficulty of self-love is not one's fault, but society's and its norms. I once said in a compulsory group meeting that I love myself. It made no impression on others, and no special responses. However, I knew deep inside that I had the possibility of being perceived as a selfish and egoistic person. After a few seconds of silence, someone replied: “But there are also other people.” Other people, other people ! Does one's life have to be all about other people? Why is self-love considered almost like a taboo, socially and normally? From the day of birth until the very end, we are taught that the meaning of being useful is to contribute and to interact with the environment, and that being alone for long periods of time (for example, using the computer for extensive periods is equivalent to "having no life.") Gamers who find lots of fun and satisfaction in playing video games are constantly labeled as lifeless basement dwellers. Bookworms are perceived as nerdy and therefore unimportant. Anonymous people with no significant contribution to society are left ignored, even if they are talented at something. We are taught to believe that having meaning in life always has to relate to other people. Because of this false dogma, which is taken seriously by many, why would self-love be an easy task? Self-love is about knowing that one has meaning beyond society. The individual is not defined by their social background or local community. They are first and foremost an entity of various potentials to be achieved, regardless of any social construct. Due to the centrality of society and family in one's life, they may have little time to truly be with themselves. Like a romantic couple would have time in seclusion to be together. In my opinion, without knowing and accepting the inescapable state of solitude, one cannot truly love themselves. It's just like a couple cannot truly love themselves when they don't have the time to be alone together. Why would couples love each other if they are busy all the time with an external source to distract them from intimacy? Just as intimacy is a must for optimal romantic love, solitude is a must for optimal self-love. Because learning to be with ourselves can help us appreciate who we truly are, as authentic beings. Loving oneself is more than just acceptance, because accepting something is not the same as loving something. For an individual to love themselves, they must venture within themselves and find comfort in the inner realm they discover in their solitary explorations. When we get into our beds, we need the bed to be comfortable enough so we can have a good night's sleep. Similarly, when we get inside ourselves (The Internal World), we need our own company to be comfortable and satisfying enough so we can gradually achieve high-quality self-love. If we do not find joy and self-content, we cannot love ourselves the way we wish to, just like the sleeping metaphor. Because who does not like to sleep? Sleep is a state of bliss . In my case at least, it's a state where I escape my chronic pains. I am only awake for days straight because work is important to me. But if I was more forgiving to myself, I would just try sleeping for days on end, independent of suffering. Likewise, I believe self love can be like the love of sleep. For sleep is a state of pure disconnection from the world, and thus, a time to be with only yourself. I believe that loving oneself is one of the most important quests in the journey of life. Social norms view the ideal life with cliché and desired stereotypes all-together: a supportive family, a loving partner, joyful children, a high-income job - but where is oneself in all of this? Does achieving all of these ambitions grant us self-love? No, because one can have all of the desired things on the social-economic level - yet remain unsatisfied and even nihilistic. The orthodox paths aren't necessarily for all of us either way. To love oneself, one needs to know where they are going in life, and what they wish to achieve and become, besides the social and traditional expectations. What they want to do and to be in life according to their own expectations. However, how much do we really know what we wish in life? Not what others wish for us, but what we wish for ourselves. But what do we, individually, wish for ourselves that does not necessarily come hand-in-hand with the wishes of others? As we become more aware of ourselves and where we may go with our personal will, we can love ourselves for who we are and what we wish to become. Life, after all, is a series of achieving goals and tasks. And we have the potential to decide which goals and tasks are to be achieved, regardless of other people. And either benefit or suffer from the consequences of our actions. When one is able to act outside of conformity, one is also able to use his or her free will. The more our ambitions and achievements are truly ours to behold, the more control we have over our lives. It is a human grace to be capable of loving what we have in our control, and thus, to our manifestation and leadership, over it. When in control, life can be more of our own creation. And what is a dog to its master if the master has no love for it? The dog will live in misery, for it is not loved, and this will eventually affect the owner as well. Loving life is equivalent to loving oneself in some form. If you don't like life, why would you like yourself, the one who narrates and hosts it within you?

(Inspired song) (Philosocom's Subcategory on Revenge) (Philosocom's Directory on Peace) (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). You're but a ghost to me, A mere relic. Your vision's hard to unsee, It's pathetic. But it will be all over, When I'll retribute. Your given adjective, It should've not been said, And I have a plan, Despite fatigue and sad, And within the brain, Mad is the Rubinshtein. Humanity's realization, For that I await, To attain renown, And seal your fake name's fate… The temptation charms me. In the peaceful solitude of the wilderness, The memory of you remains so hard and intense, For serenity I have failed to value its worth, So instead I'll exact influence from the peaceful lair! So instead I'll exact influence from the peaceful lair! I'm exhausted, From your mental visage, It makes me wish, To be old in age, And be finished, Sleep like fish. "Irrelevant?" That is your mistake! A mistake I'll make sure the world'll know you've made… Despite the fatigue, now. Get a taste of my ambitious philosophership ! I will sink each and every one of your battleships! I am an eccentric man, Why underestimate? From the peaceful lair, revenge I will exact! From the peaceful lair, revenge I will exact! I will exact! Get a taste of my ambitious philosophership! I will sink each and every one of your battleships! For serenity I have failed to value its worth, So instead I'll exact influence from the peaceful lair! In the peaceful solitude of the wilderness, The memory of you remains so hard and intense, And I am an eccentric man, Why underestimate? So instead I'll exact influence from the peaceful lair! I will gain relevance! They're haunting my head, The dreams of the top , I don't let them stop. Rele-Relevance! They're haunting my head, To only in death stop... ****************************************************** (For long they didn't stop, But they will, eventually.... ...Due to your own Irony, Ms. Chen )

(Background music) (Philosocom's Directory on Luck) Article Overview by Mr. J. Igwe and Co. "The Philosophy of Trust and Luck — How to Apply Trust Wisely" is a thought-provoking exploration of the intersection of trust and luck in our lives. Mr. Tomasio uses personal anecdotes and shares experiences as a "loner by nature," making the topic more relatable. The article effectively balances philosophical considerations with practical advice, referencing Nietzsche's concept of the Overman and discussing respect, compromise, and cooperation. Practical insights on evaluating people's trustworthiness through physical cues and digital footprints offer tangible steps that readers can apply in their own lives. The article emphasizes choice and agency in determining whom to trust. The discussion of how luck plays a role in the people we meet, but wisdom dictates how we navigate these relationships is compelling. This perspective empowers readers by reminding them that while circumstances may not always be in their control, their responses and decisions are. This emphasis on self-determination and responsibility adds an empowering dimension to the piece. The philosopher's conversational style keeps the content lively and engaging, with phrases like "Never underestimate the tyranny of circumstance" and "Masterminds do not often make hasty choices" adding a unique voice to the article. This style not only captures the reader's attention but also makes the philosophical content more accessible. The article maintains a balanced tone that is cautionary without being overly pessimistic, while also encouraging the reader to develop wisdom and discernment in their interactions. This balance keeps the piece from feeling overly negative, providing a constructive outlook on the role of trust in shaping our lives. Overall, "The Philosophy of Trust and Luck — How to Apply Trust Wisely" is a compelling and thought-provoking exploration of trust and luck in our lives.   Introduction There is, I believe, a very fine correlation between a worthy object of trust and luck . By being born somewhere, in a specific family, in a specific society, and with different skills, some people are bound to you for some time. That's until you gain the increasing option to navigate between more and more potential connections. Never underestimate the tyranny of circumstance. When you're merely a child, you're at the hands of people you are confined to, and later, to an educational institution filled with people you must meet every day. Then, when you have to work, your acknowledgement of people increases even further, until you reach a certain peak, somewhere in your life, depending on your very own decisions. Depending on the people in your life, along other factors, obviously, your peak may not necessarily be a successful one ; one where you're at the prime of your self actualization. What I'm trying to say is, that there are different people that you will meet in life, forced or successfully invited. Some are worthy of trust, some are not.  Some of these people are confined to you for a specific period of time. But, once you grow more independent, you might be introduced to more and more people, whose reliability is all a matter of the luck of these people in the first place. Organized Followership  -- How I Came to Rise I'm a loner by nature , and because of that, my "pool" of people is small. However, those who I managed to find and connect with throughout my life were people who I can say were worthy of my trust and are even now. The internet, so to speak, is the "ultimate" medium of potential where you can meet a very wide variety of people, all with different degrees of objectively-recommended trust. It really is luck-based.  Being introduced to different people is can largely random thing, whether they connect with you or not to the point of reducing your loneliness . Of course, as we become adults, we gain the choice to decide which people we want and which we don't. However, the pool of opportunity, in which the selection is made, is based on luck. Since our lives pretty much rely on people, from our parents to the people we will be interacting with throughout our lives, these interactions will eventually influence the course our lives will take. Nietzsche's Overman  may fail to understand that interactions often require compromise, in order for certain tasks, even if voluntary and not monetary, to be done. If you're going to have volunteers you need them to stay loyal. For them to stay loyal you need to respect their boundaries. The Overman however has little regard for morality that isn't his or her own making. Going outside of a life of a " Full Hermit Mode " requires respect that can take some sacrifice of your personal sentiments in the name of greater cooperation. You shouldn't, for example, see your own volunteers as useless as that would insult them greatly. Usefulness is a basic trait in human beings.  Especially those who volunteer. This demonstrates how unpredictable life can be based on the words you choose to say and the people whose presence you would either accept or deny. If you said different things and chose different people throughout the course of your past, perhaps your life in the present would've been very different. The same goes with this very site. Masterminds do not often make hasty choices. A certain reader chose to volunteer as an advisor for example... If I hadn't trusted them, then the composition of the site would've been different. If I hadn't accepted help in general, this site would've looked different as well, for the better and for the worse. If you wish to improve your life, you need to work on your ability to distinguish between those who are worthy of trust and those who are not.   Some people are manipulators with ulterior motives.   Others would stab you in the back when they'd get the chance. It's hard to know for certain unless you work on your ability to "read" people and notice indications of possible scammers and other con artists. Physically, and not virtually, you can get the upper hand through visible nonverbal communication . Virtually, you can at the very best follow and inspect their activities online (AKA their active digital footprint ). Should you fall for their deception, then that would change your course of life as well. People shouldn't be treated nor discarded like pawns . However, you better regard your own interests as well. They might not do it for you, so you should concern about these interests yourself. Thus, this "luck" I'm speaking of when it comes to people also relies on your ability to consent or deny when such decisions can be made. If you are a baby, you can't choose your parents or guardians, but when you become an adult, free from guardianship, you can choose to discard them, regardless of whether or not it's a wise idea. Of course freedom allows us to make dumb decisions. Thanks to certain people, I managed to grow more skeptical of people, like when some strangers approached me. Perhaps if I didn't have people I couldn't logically trust, my life would've been different as well. Importance of Wisdom Do you see now, how one's fortune is as fluid as water? It can change anytime, anywhere, and it depends on two factors: luck and wisdom . Luck, because we are dealt with different "pools" of people. Wisdom is our ability to differentiate, accept, and/or decline potential; To choose wisely. We cannot always control the first, but we sure can improve the second as time goes on.  We should be suspicious of people when suspicion has its place, and we should be trustful of people when we are rightfully certain that they can bring us benefit, and vice versa, if we're altruists. We better choose the right people for whatever functionality they agreed to fulfill. That includes friendships. They might not understand, for instance, how to be friends with philosophers.  As a philosopher living in a post-truth era, you might want to let them go, or decline them altogether. Enable them to commit the parasocial fallacy , and they will be angry at you for their own misunderstanding. Final Notes On that note, I would like to thank you all for trusting me, if you do. The internet can be a malicious place. Thank you for not regarding me as a scammer, because you can rest assured when I declare that I am full of goodwill. Thanks again for choosing to spend your time on my writing. Allow me to humor you with my articles as long as you like. I myself humor guest writers. And remember this: Anyone can just disappear from your life, intentionally or not.  Other people aren't necessarily resources like iron ore. They can definitely be of help if you prove to them you're trustworthy yourself. Choose wisely from your "pool" of people, and they can be of great help to your hopes and dreams.

(Background music) (Philosocom's Directory on Narcissism) (Philosocom's Subcategory on Manipulation) Summary by Anonymous Love bombing is a manipulative tactic used by cult leaders and narcissists to lure people to their influence. It involves showering potential recruits with affection, attention, and a sense of belonging, creating an intense emotional bond that makes it difficult to see the group or leader's flaws. This can be particularly dangerous for those who are lonely, isolated, or mentally vulnerable. Mr. Tomasio warns about the addictive nature of love bombing, comparing it to a drug that can lead to dependence and a willingness to sacrifice one's own judgment, finances, and relationships to maintain the "high." Cult leaders exploit this addiction to control their followers and achieve their own goals. The article also discusses the concept of a "yandere," a possessive and obsessive love interest who may also love-bomb their heart's choice. While not all yanderes resort to violence, they can be controlling and jealous. However, it's important to distinguish between genuine affection and love bombing. The philosopher provides tips on how to recognize love bombing and protect oneself from manipulation. These include being cautious, trusting one's gut, seeking support from friends and family, and getting professional help if needed. Love Bombing : A Seductive Trap Used by Cults Love bombing is a manipulative tactic that cult leaders frequently use to lure people in. Furthermore, it is also used by narcissists as part of getting their "fuel" from other people . While cults may employ other recruitment methods , love bombing is a particularly insidious one because it preys on our natural desire for connection and belonging. Here's how it works: Cult leaders shower potential recruits with affection, attention, and a sense of belonging. This can be especially appealing to those who are feeling lonely, isolated, or vulnerable. The love bombing creates an intense emotional bond, making it difficult for the recruit to see the group or leader's flaws. Like with any sources of joy, joy can be addictive. This gradual gratification leads to weaker and less disciplined minds. The disciplined, critical mind, is there to doubt what it feels and look both ways . When the mind is desperate for something, it is naturally biased towards it quite heavily, hence the connection between desperation and the confirmation bias. The more attention and validation you receive from the group, the more you crave it. This dependence can lead you to unnecessarily sacrifice your own judgment, finances, and even relationships with loved ones in order to maintain the feeling of acceptance within the cult. That is even though this feeling within you is their resource as part of a bigger, long-term plan. Love Bombing and Exploitation This is a major reason why people form cults: to gain money , power, and sometimes, sex.. This intense, but parasocial "love" can be addictive, and here's why: Love as a Drug:  When someone bombards you with love and attention, it triggers feel-good chemicals in your brain. This creates a dependence, similar to an addiction. Love can bond you uniquely to a person, and therefore you should, for your sanity, make sure you're falling to the right person. The Need to Maintain the High:  Like any addiction, the more intense the initial "high" of love bombing, the more you crave it. This can lead you to become increasingly reliant on the cult for validation and affection. Desperation to Avoid Deprivation:  To keep the "high" going, you might be willing to do whatever it takes to stay in the cult's good graces. This could involve sacrificing your finances, freedom, or even relationships with loved ones. This is also to avoid the psychological pain of loneliness. Exploitation by Cult Leaders:  Cult leaders understand this addictive cycle and exploit it for their own gain, creating an unhealthy dependency in their followers' hearts on their leadership. They keep you hooked on the initial love bomb to make you more compliant and beneficial to their goals. Here are some additional details about love bombing: Love bombers shower their targets with attention, affection, and praise. They make the target feel special and loved. People need to feel valued and appreciated for their psychological safety , whether or not these feelings are a product of someone else's dishonesty. Love bombing can be very effective in making the target feel like they have found their "soulmate" or "true love." However, it is all based on what the victim wants to believe to be true, rather than the fact that they are being manipulated, unfortunately. Once the target is hooked, the love bomber will begin to slowly isolate them from their friends and family. That is done to increase their dominant influence on their lives, thoughts and behavior. If the target tries to leave, the love bomber may use threats, guilt and shame, and manipulation to keep them in the cult. Intermission: The Rare Case of The Yandere (Note: This situation is uncommon in everyday life) In rare cases, love bombing might be a sign of a "yandere." This Japanese term describes an obsessive and possessive, and overprotective love interest. Yanderes can be controlling and jealous, desperate to possess their love interest. While not all yanderes resort to violence, it's important to be aware of their potential instability. Due to the extreme and potentially dangerous nature of yanderes, it's difficult to confirm real-life cases with absolute certainty. Legal proceedings often focus on the actions themselves rather than the emotional motivations behind them, as much of ethical law is deontological in nature. . Regardless, some well-documented events share characteristics with the yandere archetype: Obsessive Love and Murder:  In 2019, Yuka Takaoka from Japan allegedly stabbed her ex-boyfriend after falsely feeling she was betrayed . Reports suggest she expressed strong feelings of love and possessiveness. Deadly Competition:    A 2006 case in Belgium involved a woman named Els Clottemans who was accused of tampering with the parachute of her friend and fellow skydiver . The motive was believed to be jealousy and a desire to eliminate a romantic rival. Isolation and Control:   While not having to always result in violence, some controlling relationships mirror the manipulative aspects of yanderes. Online, people may anonymously confess they are ones. Whether or not it is trolling is up to the readers' discretion . In these cases, a partner might isolate their significant other from friends and family, constantly track their movements, or exhibit extreme possessiveness, under the constant fear and uncertainty of feeling devoid of that person in their lives. This can be described as a "Void-Fear", a term I invented and wrote about. Yanderes teaches us that some people may love-bomb others because of grave insecurities. Jealousy in relationships comes from uncertainty, so in order to try and fill out this anxiety, some people may shower love and affection on others, just so they will not find themselves alone and rejected again. Since rejection can be painful , manipulation can be used as an immoral way to prevent further harm. This isn't to justify this manipulation, but rather to explain its rationale. Love-bombing can therefore be used as a self-defense mechanism. If you are convinced that the person you are dealing with is not a yandere, it is possible that they belong to a cult. A Red Flag Or A Cute Obsession? Love bombing can be a scary tactic, but it's important to distinguish it from genuine affection . Here's how to tell the difference: Obsession doesn't always equal danger. True love involves respect and healthy boundaries. Intensity:  Is the love expressed excessively intense, making you feel overwhelmed? One-sided Focus:  Do conversations constantly revolve around you, with little interest in anything else? Mental Health Concerns:  Are there signs of underlying mental health issues that could contribute to their behavior? Disorders like BPD? Like NPD? Isolation Tactics :  Does the person try to isolate you from friends and family? Limited Interests:  Does their life seem solely focused on you? If their love to you is their goal, and not a means to an end like importance and recognition might be in public life, then their love isn't necessarily love-bombing. It is love for the sake of love. This genuine love doesn't even have to be logical , as conditionals are imperative in logic. True love, AKA, "I seek to love you because I want to love you" is basically circular logic, which is fallacious in nature. Conditional love can come from wanting power, and like with power in general, it can easily be weaponized and prone to corruption. And the desire to have more power comes from the feeling and/or fact that you are weak. Give up on weakness and you might feel less compelled to exert your power on others as a way to compensate for your lack of it. Otherwise, as long as your mind isn't strong using endurance and hardship , you might feel compelled to oppress, manipulate and terrorize others. That unfortunately includes those who are dear to you , using their own bond to you. The Virtue of Love, Weaponized and Corrupted While the desire for love is natural, it's crucial to understand that not all affection is genuine, and may be used for something else the manipulator craves for, and is too weak to do without. Cult leaders create cults for the sake of feeling in control . Dictators have cults of personality used to strengthen their grip on the people's faith in them as means for their legitimacy. Love bombing twists the concept of love into a tool for manipulation. Someone showering you with affection may not have your best interests at heart. Their goal could be control, money, or even something more sinister. Healthy love thrives on trust, but not blind trust. It's important to understand the person expressing feelings for you, without falling victim to their agenda. Take things slow. Don't get swept away by whirlwind romances. Take your time, get to know the person, and assess their trustworthiness by being a more logical being. Trust your gut. If something doesn't feel right, it probably isn't. If you have a bad feeling about someone, don't ignore it. But what if your gut tells you otherwise? Maybe lambasting it can prevent you from becoming a cult member. Talk to your friends and family. Seek support from trusted friends and family. Their perspective can help you see the situation more clearly. Include their thoughts in your mind to increase the sphere of your decision making. Get professional help.  If you're unsure or feel manipulated, don't hesitate to seek help from a therapist or counselor. They can provide strategies for dealing with love bombing and navigate the complexities of forming healthy relationships. Hopefully that help can outweigh its criticism. Conclusive Insights Love bombing is a serious issue, but by following these tips, you can reduce the chances of you being the victim of manipulation. Be cautious, trust your gut, study logic, and prioritize healthy relationships built on genuine care for one another. Take things at face value , and you will surely be manipulated by ulterior motives . Remember, true love and healthy relationships are built on mutual respect, trust, and open communication. Don't be fooled by the facade of love bombing. Try seeing beyond it, and do not hesitate to doubt your emotions. If someone is showering you with excessive affection or trying to isolate you from your friends and family, it's a huge red flag. The more isolated you are, the easier you can be controlled.

(Definition of examination: A close and careful investigation of something or someone) Synopsis by Mr. John Igwe & Co. The article "How to Examine Philosophy" presents a well-structured critique of Socrates' famous quote, "The unexamined life is not worth living." Mr. Tomasio challenges the absolutism of the statement, arguing that existential contemplation might not hold the same value today as it did in ancient times. The article provides a historical context, contrasting the importance of philosophy in Socrates' era with its perceived role today. It acknowledges the importance of philosophy while also recognizing its limitations in the contemporary context. Mr. Tomasio emphasizes the necessity of critical thinking and logical analysis in philosophical inquiry. The concept of becoming a "Rubinshteinic Butcher" encourages readers to prioritize logical reasoning over emotional reactions, fostering resilience in the face of uncomfortable truths. Overall, the article presents a thoughtful and engaging critique of Socrates' quote, encouraging readers to reflect on the role of philosophy in contemporary life. (Background music) Critique of Approach If there is an insulting saying in philosophy, it might be Socrates' quote, " The unexamined life is not worth living ". It's insulting because, if true, it doesn't matter if you've done great things in life, raised a happy family, or donated to charity. According to this quote, it is sufficient to overlook or ignore existential contemplation in order to have a worthless life. It's as if, no matter what you'll do, as long as you won't dare to think reflect deeply on your life, it would be meaningless. Philosophers can be very blunt by the very fact that they state their claims and explain them. People can unnecessarily be insulted and feel as if they are being arrogant . As if philosophy is the proudful display of one's intellect. In reality, we're just doing our jobs, just as did Socrates when he valued in high regard the importance of examining life. PC culture is in the way of philosophy because logic care less for one's sentiments. The role of philosophy isn't to be politically correct but to explore reality despite of personal sentiments. It is the professional thing to do, and as such, no one really has any reason to be insulted by a philosopher who is simply practicing his craft. As such, such statements such as Socrates should not offend you because what matters in philosophy is the logical reasoning of such claims, and not what they make you feel. It matters if it's true or not, not if they make you feel comfortable or uncomfortable. Study the way of being a "Rubinshteinic Butcher" and you too can become mentally tougher over such remarks. How Post Truth Gets In the Way We live in an era of post-truth . Post-truth essentially means that we may disregard fact in favor of opinion and subjective experience. In same cases you may find that people may use terms like "in my opinion" just to make themselves sound humble and not arrogant. That is because being assertive can threathen some people's lack of self confidence. But the thing is, the the competent philosopher speaks to mainly to the intellect of his or her audience, not to their hearts. Even when emotion is involved, it is reason that is prioritized. That's because philosophy isn't about the quality of one's experience when consuming philosophy, but about their ability to understand what they've just read/consumed, and whether or not the content is logical and true. Let your emotion be too much in the way and you will hinder yourself from understanding a philosophical text. Example of how to Approach Philosophy Properly So, let us, for the sake of this article, examine Socrates' quote from how a philosophy follower's perspective, and not otherwise: Is it that bad a "sin", to not examine life? Why is examination such an elevated value that it transcends all other actions and devotions throughout one's life? A Historic-Based Theory On Examination My theory in regard to this issue is that examination isn't that grandiose in importance anymore, because philosophy isn't that imperative anymore, like other fields of knowledge. One of the reasons is because the former isn't as accurate as the latter. The functionality of philosophy has drastically changed over human history, to the point that much of its role has been taken by science. However, it wasn't necessarily the case in Socrates' period, where philosophy began to evolve. A period where great thinkers emerged and formed schools of thought. Therefore, one can say that much of what we claim to be true is largely influenced by the setting we were initially in. It was before capitalism emerged as the typical mindset of many. Socrates and many others didn't care about making as much money as possible, as some of us may do. Rather, they cared more about the wonders of reality, and the desire to understand them (AKA Metaphysics). They cared less about the profitability of these functions because they valued depth over revenue. Philosophy In the Modern Era Nowadays philosophy may be regarded as irrelevant simply because it is not as profitable beyond academia. That perspective is part of the mercenary's mindset that's been normalized as humanity became more industrious in nature. In other words, the industrial revolution contributed much to putting financial self-interest in higher regard, over what we're actually doing for a living. Even though philosophy can be regarded as science, contemporary science requires experimentation . A philosopher might as well just think philosophically and leave it at that. To put it simply, examining one's life isn't that relevant anymore when you can search online about things regarding your situation , receive a professional diagnosis from a doctor, learn the effect of your nutrition on your body, and better yet, learn who you are from a psychologist. The many sources of knowledge have drastically increased, to the point where they can, in theory, overpower the functionality philosophy has left in this age. An age where sources are more valued than logical insight. Regardless, given the practical-aspect of philosophical reasoning, which is to advance knowledge , philosophy still has no absolute reason to end. Critique of Philosophy Hence, I think Socrates' quote, although insulting to some, is no longer relevant. Philosophy might have been the mother of all sciences , but nowadays it is more difficult to call it a science any longer. It is also difficult to say that the unexamined life is not worth living when there are other priorities at play, such as doing our jobs and putting food on the table . Is philosophical contemplation important as much as these essential functionalities? It is interesting because philosophy is now more of a part of the humanities than an actual science. There is no experimentation like in contemporary science, but instead it relies far more on logical cohesiveness and the attempt to commit as few fallacies as possible. There may be thought experiments but they are always in the field of theory, like most philosophy is. And those who don't bother learning fallacies , might struggle to understand the logic behind philosophical texts. Still, philosophy is still important to some due to the fact that it's basically a union between logic and existential topics. Reduce any of these values, and you won't get philosophy. That's all philosophy has left: examining , through thinking about deep topics in an attempt to find a possible truth. Unlike science, it's very reasonable that there isn't any one thing that all philosophers can agree upon, and that is because it is sufficient to find one who disagrees in order to prove this claim. After all it is the philospher's role to disagree. This methodology can further complicate the search for truth in contemporary philosophy, where everything can be questionable, with the very real likelihood of not finding truth in the process. Conclusions Philosophical examination is also very frustrating to most, as it often appears that there is no conclusion to the many ramblings philosophers make. Since it can be very tiring , some people may fall into the fallacy that tiring complexity is worthless, and therefore, philosophy is worthless. However, let us not delude ourselves away from the fact that existence itself is complex, and not only in the field of philosophy. The brain, for example, is extremely complicated , yet it's one of the most functional organs in the body. Thus, complexity alone is insufficient to conclude worthlessness. Since existence is complex and since we are a part of it, un-examination might not be as unworthy as Socrates has argued . At least, we can rest assured that examining our lives, our role within it, and our current situation can still greatly contribute to our lives. It can contribute to ourselves, as well as to society at large. Whether you're looking for a job, a partner in life, or a vision to pursue, examining your life can assist you in finding the life you wish to live. Ultimately, the examination of life lies in this: in acquiring more self-knowledge , something that cannot be acquired through physics, biology, and so on. Perhaps not even by psychology exclusively, nor in sociology.