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  • The Victory Fallacy -- How Achievement Can Deceive

    (Background music) Imagine yourself as a fighter, not just any fighter, but one who takes their art very seriously and even manages to win several fights successfully. At least in fighting games, beating up your opponent is much more gratifying than being on the receiving end. Violence in general can be gratifying when it is done in safety (unlike when getting punched in the face) , or when you have nothing to lose (like your physical condition or even your life). However, in our pursuit of success, we often overestimate our own abilities. We rely on our past victories and experiences to fuel our confidence, but this can lead to a dangerous fallacy . Just because we have won before doesn't guarantee victory in every situation, or even our next "encounter" against adversity or a challenge. We must recognize the limitations of our strength and avoid underestimating the challenges ahead. Nothing ensures victory, and only our incompetence and ignorance ensure defeat. And I quote from " The Art of War " by Chinese philosopher Sun Tzu/Sunzi : " If you know yourself but not the enemy, for every victory gained you will also suffer defeat" Opponent after opponent, you may manage to create quite a name for yourself, even at times defeating opponents in a row. Your self-esteem gradually skyrockets, your head is held high in pride, in a sense of a well-deserved accomplishment for all the time spent training in combat or any other skill such as debating or any other talent which involved competition. Indeed, the path to mastery often requires much sacrifice of your time and energy, both of which are limited. Such is the nature of success. In interpersonal settings, we tend to believe that our attractiveness or charm alone will bring us success. However, true success with people requires more than just physical appearance, as that is not everything . It demands hard work, dedication, and the ability to adapt to different circumstances. Adaptation, by the way, is what determines higher possibilities of victory and success. Adaptation is how the human species manage to survive and reign supreme over the species of those who failed to adapt. But as your opponents are defeated quite easily and your ego grows, a regular-looking opponent may arrive, giving you the illusion that they will go down like the rest. However, things are not always like they seem and thus, it can be clear as to how the story ends: That regular person defeats you with ease, even after your hardest efforts to strike and to protect from their overwhelming, unexpected power. Life is a series of walls. Your hard effort invested into climbing one wall will in no way guarantee you that you will manage to overcome the many other walls that are in the way of your chosen journey in life. And indeed, when we put things into perspective, many of us are not as strong, attractive, and so, like we think we are. There may be a gap as to how we perceive ourselves and what we truly are. We are more than fixated titles and nouns. We are dynamic and developing, and thus, never absolute masters, regardless of the proficiency of our skills. Therefore, don't always have what it takes, despite our self-confidence and everything else that we got in our "toolbox" of abilities. Like the universe , we may be "expanding" because there is more room for growth, and therefore we are not only developing but far from unlimited in our powers and virtues. It is why we should never deem ourselves absolute in any way. We are always flawed, and it is not a bad thing necessarily, especially when it comes to love. We often rely on our delusion of being capable of great success, based on experience gained thus far, and use it to underestimate the challenges—and other people—who may be far more powerful in whatever field the issue is about. Should we be wiser, we may realize that there are always individuals who are more powerful and skilled than us in various fields, much to our surprise or otherwise . It's important to acknowledge their expertise and learn from them instead of underestimating their abilities. In other words, there may always be higher "walls" that we won't necessarily succeed in climbing. We might not overcome them, but even if they are our rivals, we can learn much from them. "You need to put yourself in the place of your enemy so you can predict his actions." That is the problem with the wrong usage of evidence when it comes to future endeavors. The facts may be misrepresented even by yourself, in front of yourself, leading to unintentional self-deception. This in turn could lead to an incorrect reading of the facts. The width of your biceps will not definitely give you victory in arm wrestling, your ability to snipe the enemy from a far distance will not guarantee you perfect aim at all times, being very proficient in English does not mean you know every single word in the English language, and so on and on. From this we can learn that logic is also required alongside the attribution of evidence. Truth is comprised of more than evidence alone . As such, evidence of victory is insufficient to certainly foretold future victories, and they won't always even come easily. A perfect example is the comic relief character from the Dragon Ball series, Mr. Satan . Despite being able to win several martial arts tournaments in the globe, he is but an insect compared to many other characters in the franchise, like a villain named Cell. No matter how many wins he will achieve during his career, he will never be as powerful as much of the franchise's cast are. The solution to overcoming this problem is this: Consider putting all the vanity aside and be prepared to be devastated by life just as you may prepare to succeed in it. When you consider the two options at once, you will realize that strength and weakness are not always opposite to each other. You can be a very decent fighter and be crushed over and over again at the same time. After all, we all have our weaknesses. The same logic provided in this fallacy can be applied in its inverted case as well. Sometimes, we face a series of defeats that can be demoralizing. However, it's crucial to remember that setbacks are opportunities for growth . And thus, victory can be achieved even after a demoralizing series of defeats. And finally, remember this: it's okay not to be number 1 when you can still rank high enough. Even if we're not always number one, we can still rank high enough and achieve success by learning from our failures and persevering. Winning and losing, success and failure, can by synergized. The Exception The only exception to this fallacy is when a victory is ensured, or in other words, when there is no chance for defeat. The exception occurs when one is sure to win, based on the power and skill of all parties involved. It isn't necessarily that past experience ensures victory, but on one's capability to overcome the enemy/opponent. If one's power is strong enough to the point that absolute victory is ensured, then the victory fallacy is untrue. Therefore, the victory fallacy is not true at all times. There are times where, after all, defeat is not even a possibility and thus shouldn't even be considered as such. The victory fallacy cannot apply when absolute victory will occur. A cockroach, for example, has no chance to defeat a human being, unlike a human who isn't afraid of cockroaches and can simply squash it. Can we truly say cockroaches have any chance against people who are not afraid of them at all? Fear is a tool that can be used against us in psychological warfare . However, some people are simply incapable of being afraid, although their condition is very rare. Should these types of people encounter a cockroach, they won't be hesitated to simply get rid of it without much effort or concern, thus ensuring an absolute victory.

  • 23rd Birthday Contemplations (2020) (Philosocom's Subcategory Directory On Birthdays)

    (The Directory on Birthdays https://www.philosocom.com/post/the-problem-with-birthdays-and-other-events-from-an-autistic-standpoint https://www.philosocom.com/post/the-7th-of-december-wish https://www.philosocom.com/post/the-sad-dictator-storytime ) (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). Today I turned 23, but to be frank I don't really care, because for me birthdays are a regular occurrence, unlike holidays, which are not, since they usually occur only annually, thus giving them their rarity. However, birthdays occur every day, so technically I am correct that a regular day is always someone's birthday, and someone's birthday always happens on a regular day, unless one is born on a worldly-irregular day, such as the 4th of July, the 31st of December, or the 1st of January, or the day before it. Otherwise, a birthday is almost always a regular day. It is only that each day is special for a small minority of people who have happened to be born at that day, in different lengths of years ago. Nonetheless, I can't help but to think what is left for me to experience before I leave this world. By becoming a philosopher, I feel as if I've dug up half of my grave, because philosophizing made me realize that things are not as they seem, and that includes what we see as the "full life", the lifestyle that is considered normative and of which most people have, are, and will live. In other words, by becoming a philosopher, I've also become a metaphorical "undead", using the power of constant doubt to things we usually see as desired, such as money, academic degrees, a spouse, kids, traveling to other lands, and so forth. "The Undead Metaphor", one of my ideas, concludes that much of what life has to offer isn't worth it due to its unnecessity. And indeed, I've "undead-ified" my life, altering the usual course of it forever, becoming a semi-hermit who largely leads an ascetic life below minimum wage (even though I'm far from poor). With not much else to experience, I either create content or consume it, and that's what my life pretty much is in a nutshell: Creating content to be consumed, or searching content to consume. The better the content, the more benefit I and others, like you, gain. And still, although I am content, the frustrating thing is that life is largely much before me than after me. It does not matter that I've written hundreds of articles, dozens of poems, and videos, there still appears to be a reason as to why I still remain among the living even though I've done pretty much all I've ever wanted to do, and there's nothing much to be done, either. This brings me to two conclusions: either fate exists, or it doesn't, and everything is pretty much random; a fortunate order created by undetermined chaos. The principle of fate claims that everyone and everything has a reason, and therefore, nothing can exist without a reason that is not related to a higher cosmic plan. However, like all generalizations, it is sufficient to find at least one thing or being whose existence is not related to this plan whatsoever, in order to logically claim that fate either does not exist, or exists exclusively. In other words, there could be a cosmic reason as to why I have not died yet, even though I believe I have done pretty much all there is, or that my existence (or anyone's existence) was not determined by a higher force, and thus the legitimacy of our lives is not determined by anyone but ourselves. As written before, the positive thing about the concept of void is that it also creates opportunity, or freedom, to fill it with whatever we desire, hence why emptiness can logically also be seen as a positive thing. As an empty room can be filled with any furniture of our choice, so our lives can be filled with whatever and whoever we want to put in them. Therefore, the concept of determinism can be seen as negative since, if true, it limits us from having things and beings that a cosmic plan does not want us to have, and will not necessarily let us have should we desire so. Do determinism or infinite void exist? Are we allowed to technically do whatever we want without the limitation of a cosmic plan? I don't have an answer for you, but what I can say about life is this: much if not every of the moments in our limited life are an opportunity; a potential, and potential is not to be underestimated, for it can lead to great things. This is why I have decided to be against the idea of self-sacrifice, because as long as I live, something can be done, like the creation or consumption of new content, and this is why I would take this birthday to remind myself that I am happy to be alive. Do you about your own?

  • The Main Elements of a Paying Job

    (For Philosocom's directory for articles on money, click here) (Philosocom Directory on Work) There are two main elements in having a paying job: income and the results of the role you have in that occupation, otherwise known as influence, power, or simply effect. The more of the latter you have, the likelier you are to reach a peak of satisfaction, provided that your income can sustain your living expenses. Therefore, work necessarily has a political role, whether one is a subordinate or a leader. While income is crucial for financial security, job satisfaction often stems from the impact one has on their work.   This influence, or "effect," can be more fulfilling than mere monetary gain. Many people prioritize money over finding purpose , leading to potential disappointment. Many of them simply worry about surviving, rather than asking themselves: "What to survive for?". While money is essential, it's not a guaranteed path to happiness . True satisfaction often lies in meaningful work that puts one away from the knife. I am not saying that gaining money is bad, nor that money is the root of all evil . Money can help you survive and even prosper in this world, but can it truly serve as a satisfying source of existential meaning, even if we have much (or, too much) money? I do not know. Perhaps some people just want to have a high and profitable income, not just an income that pays the bills, to compensate for their internal emptiness. We are often taught that there can be too little money, but not too much of it. In a world where excessive money is associated with a higher worth in the social and romantic hierarchy , this is not necessarily justified. Having a job just for an income may be motivating, but it ignores so much of the importance of one's occupation and role , both to oneself and to the bigger picture of the world. Every occupation, after all, has some sort of importance, productivity, usage, and contribution. Every job, regardless of income, has value. Janitors, for instance, contribute to hygiene and health, essential aspects of life. Thus, the importance of a job lies in its impact, not just its pay. Pay, often, can be auxiliary. Hence why many may volunteer. Regardless of income, every job can be considered important to some degree. It is important because it has some influence and assistance to the public, and, at times, even to oneself. If there weren't a necessity for a specific job, that job wouldn't exist in the first place. Thinking more thoroughly about it, every moment in life can be seen as important because life is a structure of moments, and each moment affects the following moment and the moments after that moment. Why else would every moment be important? Life's moments are valuable in themselves, regardless. Each moment, as seemingly minor, offers opportunities for learning and growth. For me, knowledge and intellectual pursuit are more fulfilling than wealth. Even more than power itself. So, at least for me, obtaining knowledge and creating wisdom out of it is much more important than income. One could use their income for two main things: living (buying supplies, surfing the internet, paying the bills, all the things in daily life which require payment to ensure existence) and anything else that surrounds leisure with their respective works. For me, funds is not a meaning by itself, but the servant of an individual's meaning. And I? I am ascetic. Whenever I see news stories about the largely unnecessary and expensive things in life (spa treatments, concerts, expensive alcohol, exotic travel, nightclubs, and so forth), and gossip on those who have these properties, I often feel angry. I don't want these and I am not jealous. It is frustrating to see the common delusion that there is no such thing as too much money, as it's not realized that satisfaction can be easily reached at much cheaper prices. Therefore you save much energy at work, earning the same pay for the same end, and saving money too. If I had less opportunities to indulge in intellectual issues and deeds, I would find myself having no “higher” meaning whatsoever, as no amount of riches can bring true satisfaction , as much as article-writing. Even financially rich and successful people may find a lack of meaning in their lives, just like the poor and the unfortunate. Lonely, too. Thus, when comparing these two roles of a job, if its pay sustains your living successfully, the contribution and satisfaction should exceed its income. For there is, truly, such a thing as too much money.

  • Why Analytic Philosophy Corrupts The Planet and Corruption Directory

    (Background music) The Directory https://www.philosocom.com/post/theory-of-corruption https://www.philosocom.com/post/mother-3 https://www.philosocom.com/post/4-notes-on-corruption https://www.philosocom.com/post/the-philosophy-of-coercion-how-it-corrupts-society-through-normalization-its-ironic-origin https://www.philosocom.com/post/fortress The Philosophy of Law Enforcement: Ethics, Power, and the Burden of the Badge Introduction The fundamental weakness of Western civilization is empathy -- Elon Musk Analytic philosophy, that is to say, can very occasionally produce practically conclusive results of a negative kind... -- Alasdair MacIntyre Analytic philosophy, at its basis, is a methodological approach in philosophy, which prioritizes the cold, stern and intellectual-based research of philosophical text . It is a pragmatic approach, aimed at delivering practical results in philosophical fields which are mainly text and literary-based. In other words, analytic philosophy is a methodological, specified approach in understanding. Conventionally, analytic philosophy is a popular demonstration of what I call the dark side of enlightenment. In other words, the analytic philosopher would reduce everything to mere data, and prioritize, in a very "robotic" way, what he deems more important, and might deem that "important" aspect, the "objective importance", irrespective of what you might think or feel. Analytic philosophy is often emotionless, computer-like, and might often make you and your massive accomplishments, feel unimportant by comparison. As such, although philosophy is a social risk overall, analytic philosophy is a social risk specifically. To Overcome Bias By developing, however, the habit of looking both ways , one can see the virtue in everything. That goes for this cold, ruthless philosophy.. Analytic philosophy can help much in mathematics. Analytic philosophy is oriented towards clarity and simplicity. A. P. is oriented towards making text short and concise and less repetitive. A. P. is a classic example of how, often, emotion can, indeed, be weakness, like when it comes to the reading of dark and difficult text (See: The Rubinshteinic Butcher) . Analysis is often easier than synthesis. Synthesis requires creativity and unconventionality, and both traits are virtues most people lose when they grow up. It is, indeed, often children who are better synthesizers of concepts (and even technology) than adults. A. P. goes against digressions demonstrated in point 5, due to point 2. A. P., excelling in mathematics, excels by extension also in the sciences. Specifically, the technical sciences. The natural sciences, like biology and even the abstract world of love and romance, is more foreign in analytical philosophy. A. P. encourages people to contemplate in solitude and be less involved in interactions which might trigger unnecessary, avoidable battles with people (Especially your dear ones!) . The Negative Implications of Analytic Philosophy on the World Today Analytic philosophy ignores the pain and suffering of people worldwide, leaving such people to fend off for themselves. Occam's Razor is often used in analytic philosophy with little awareness towards the appreciation of the human condition. In my opinion it is best used in ethics, however.. Most humans are hardwired towards negativity. As a result, analytical thinkers focus on negating humane opportunity (For instance: Giving charity to the homeless; seeing the world for its beauty, displaying empathy, and so on). Analytic thinking, as a result, is one of the reasons sociopathic tendencies are often developed in today's world, as a very normal trend. Sociopathic behavior includes manipulation and harming one's psychological safety as a means to an end. Analytic philosophy, as such, deems many avenues of intellectual exploration, irrelevant, and may attack intellectual exploration itself, again, as a means to a greater end. Immanuel Kant advocated rationalism. A rationalist approach to reality is often analytical, and focuses on negating empiric opportunity. Many people live trial and error as a regular way of life. As such, many people are not analytical thinkers, as they focus on seeing and feeling the world for its beauty and wonder. Most people, according to my own observations, are an undefined mixture of analytic and more-empiric thought. That is, even though this trend might change as a result of the AI revolution, and as a result of the realistic possibility of a real-life cyberpunk age... How Analytical Thinking Promotes A Cyberpunk World A cyberpunk world is a world where there are extreme divides between the rich and the poor. It is a morally-bankrupt age , which focuses not only on industrial and technological revolutions, but also on the remorseless exploitation of the financially poor. It is a world where the human element is discarded and reduced to a mere set of labels and titles. It is a world where humans are not seen beyond their titles, beyond their conventional status; It is a world where passionate work is not profitable. It is a world that encourages incompetence , and increases the unemployment of humans, as they get replaced, more and more, by AI applications. A cyberpunk world is not a utopia but a dystopia. It is a world where financial gain is the highest priority of all humans. A world where exploitation and manipulation is encouraged even on your own family, not just on your friends or even in the workplace. A cyberpunk world is a world that comes from democracies being heavily corrupt over time by the very leaders that often get elected legally. It is a world where people often find themselves giving up on being alive, and if not on life itself, then on enjoying the fruits and wonder of love. A cyberpunk world is an anti-love world. It is a world that encourages humans to give on their own humanity, because of technology's potential to artificially improve how they look (See: facial surgery) , and even to turn them into cyborgs. A cyberpunk world is a world where de-humanization is normal no matter if you are hermit or are an extrovert with a lot of friends. It is a world that will always condemn you because of negation. While humans are hardwired towards negativity, as it allows them to survive... it also comes at the cost of mental health. The harder it is to gain money, the more humans will suffer from mental health issues, biasing them towards despair , than hope. Analytical thinking promotes abandoning other people because "they are hard to deal with". Analytical thinking makes empathic cognition hard to express in communication. A. P. destroys the perceived wonder of life, and deems those with much emotion, as either insane , pitiful, weird and all other, pro-rejection labels. A. P. ironically sabotages philosophy itself by focusing on impressions, than the world beyond the analytical mind. Therefore, A. P. ironically leaves the analytical thinker in a Platonic Cave, even when said thinker is social. A. P. is anti-intuition and anti-passion. A. P. therefore is anti-nature. A. P. cannot compute the health benefits of Taoism, and may only prioritize conventional research (AKA, academic authorities over the originality of sheer creative genius ). A. P. as such leads, often unintentionally, to the discarding of the human element, despite the usefulness of human beings. Continental Philosophy (Or, Why is Nietzsche Still Relevant 200 Years Later) Continental philosophy is the rival school of analytical philosophy. C. P. prioritizes creative thinking and synthesis. Synthesis is all about the integration of different elements (Case Example: Article on African Philosophy) C. P. is often criticized for not making sense (AKA irrational), however, irrationality is, often merely perceived... C. P. focuses more on the human condition, and on human emotion , and even on the wonders and joys of love and romance. Continental philosophers would make connections between different points and subjects, in a way that is hard to conceive for most people . This is why C. P. is more difficult and challenging for most people to comprehend. As such, Nietzsche is extremely hard for people to understand to this very day, due to his emphasis on creativity. Example 1: "Thus Spoke Zarathustra" is a half-philosophy book, half-story. Such creativity is unconventional, making T. S. Z. very hard to comprehend. Example 2: "The Gay Science" is about the pursuit of joy. "Science" here is not to be taken literally, but emotionally. A. P. takes philosophy literally (Analytically), while C. P. takes philosophy creatively (Synthetically). C. P. discards Occam's Razor quite often, instead focusing on existentialism (Or, about making sense out of life itself). Another C.P/Existentialist example is Albert Camus, who compared life to the tale of Sisyphus (And I compared Sisyphus to Jason Voorhees). Such creation of unconventional parallels, highlight the value of being connected to one's inner child of light. Your inner child is the metaphorical version of yourself who is happy. Thus, C. P. is often about a life that is truly well-lived for each and every one of us. The unexamined life, according to Socrates , is not worth living. If you examine your own life creatively, rather than literally, as a way of habit, you might find yourself becoming happy over time, thanks to philosophy itself! Creativity is how people can find themselves happier over time, just like when they were children. Creative minds live life as if they are children, even when they are adults. By synthesizing/integrating virtue ethics , one can live life creatively and happily without being shamed and rejected for "acting like a child". Philosophy is best done as a way of life, rather than in the academy. All institutions are prone to corruption because all humans are prone to corruption. Thus, it is our choice to either cater to the academy or to reject it entirely. As a master in my own way I reject the academy and also all traditional forms of education. I believe that education is a fake need created by a fake world. I believe cold logic, as the name suggests, is inhumane, and I prefer warm logic instead. The term "warm logic", considers the human condition, and the heart, as legitimate aspects in logic. I believe conventional logic, which is often analytical, is highly limited because analytical philosophy is strictly limited. Analytical/conventional logic may falsely treat individuals as specific cases, instead of the very environment they grew up in. Cold logic remarks the discussion on humans as a fallacy, AKA "Ad-Hominem", as such, it may dismiss unique ideas, as controversial as they be (like these of the infamous Chris Chan, as the eccentric person uses ad-hominem often). C. P. may focus on bravery and on the ability to dare to visit and even study under eccentric, rejected geniuses. It is what I did as a child, as I voluntarily learned under Master Numi's leadership . She was a most difficult person, yet studying under her was my choice. Studying under her helped me appreciate creativity and the capacity of human emotion. Lastly, if I did not study under her, I wouldn't be able to compose the idealistic Pax Ethica article. When I was 10 (Or, in 2007) I decided to save her, in order to keep studying under her, and in order to prevent an unfortunate chain reaction of distressful events in my family. Had I not saved Numi, I wouldn't use philosophy to give hope to many other people, too, and to encourage them to believe in themselves. C. P. can help people believe in themselves often, and have people living philosophy as a way of life, becoming masters in their own way, as well. I relish in inspiring you and I relish in improving this world by surpassing my late master and by philosophizing for as long as I can! With all my heart, I wish to rectify this world using the power of philosophy! Hail Philosocom Article Empire!

  • Quest for the Ideal Philosophy And Competency Directory

    Subcategory Directory: How to Think Like a Competent Villain On the Incompetence of Others -- How to Use Logic to Retain Your Own Competence The A.I Philosopher -- How A.I Could Even Replace Human Philosophers (And How to Compete As Humans) Autism and Social Incompetence -- How My Ethics Stand in the Way, As Well The Usefulness of Human Beings -- Why Anyone Could be Useful When Are Guilt and Shame Useful and When They Aren't (By Mr. M. Svartgold) The Philosophy of The Mastermind -- How to Become One https://www.philosocom.com/post/against-brainrot https://www.philosocom.com/post/mad-genius https://www.philosocom.com/post/secret-life https://www.philosocom.com/post/melancholy https://www.philosocom.com/post/doronbo-gang The Philosophy of Law Enforcement: Ethics, Power, and the Burden of the Badge Article Synopsis by Mr. J. Igwe and Co. The article "On 'Correct', 'Competent' Philosophies -- In Quest For the Ideal Philosophy (And Directory On Competency)" presents an ambitious exploration of developing an ideal and competent philosophy. It presents a well-thought-out framework and attempts to define the essential components of such a philosophy, while emphasizing the necessity of intellectual humility and critical thinking. Positive aspects of the article include its ambitious scope and thoughtfulness, its emphasis on logical consistency, correspondence with reality, and the ability to provide fulfillment, and its focus on practical utility. The article also critiques idealization and fanaticism, highlighting the dangers of blind acceptance of ideas and advocating for skepticism, critical thinking, and self-reflection. In conclusion, the article provides a stimulating exploration of the quest for a competent and ideal philosophy, presenting a thorough set of criteria that such a philosophy should meet. It highlights the importance of evidence, logical coherence, and practicality, as well as the dangers of blind belief and fanaticism. (Background music) Introduction Most philosophers agree about most things; that Trump is an odious incompetent, that the climate emergency is real and drastic , that Mozart is better than the Bee Gees , that coffee is a basic human right, that *** smells, and the pope is Catholic. And all that goes without saying, so the stuff you get to hear about [where disagreements are made] is the odd region where things are as yet undecided. -- "unenlightened", The Philosophy Forum A "correct" philosophy can be known as a philosophy that is most likely to reach the truth with the greatest likelihood. Such a philosophy would be so likely accurate, that it would be able to overcome the ease of being disagreed upon. As one would know, philosophers can rarely have a complete agreement over any philosophy. This is why so many philosophies and philosophers are criticized and even lambasted despite the length of sensibility a philosophical theory might have. However, have we ever considered an exception to that rule? Have we considered the idea of a philosophy so sensible that very few, who are well versed in philosophy, would completely agree with each other on? In theory, making such a philosophical theory/idea would require much dedication, much mastery, that it would take much practice to assemble together, for both the scholarly and the intuitively gifted (AKA the "Sorcerer" and "Wizard" factions) . Given the hardship of ever reaching such a complex and skillful notion, there is no wonder intellectual humility is such an important virtue in any intellectual field, and in philosophical research in particular. The Ingredients in Question.. I would like to suggest a methodology towards crafting the most ideal philosophical theory on any subject whatsoever. When crafting the "ideal theory", it should possess all the following traits: Correspondence: This philosophy would be based on evidence from the field that it is concerned with. It would also be based on research and personal experience to strengthen its logic, making it difficult to refute that logic by trying to contradict it. To further reinforce it, and steer it away from the Anecdotal Fallacy, it should also be based on the personal experience of others throughout the world as well, with evidence that can be verified. The most reliable evidence would be able to be verified by different disciplines, strengthening the main argument of the theory overall. Such correspondence would go with the idea that the universe is unified by logic. Logical consistency: A philosophical argument is built on premises, which are composed of claims. The arguments of the philosophy would be based on consistent and logical claims, which would not contradict themselves, and would be rational and convincing. It would not contain any paradoxes, since paradoxes would severely damage the stability of that philosophy's logic. Furthermore, it should be completely pure of any fallacies, both common in their recognition, and both in fallacies that might not be well known (AKA, devised by philosophers of their respective contemporary times). Beneficial: It is possible to say that there are two types of philosophies: one that is only meant for the sake of philosophizing and little or nothing more, and a philosophy that can be practical when encountering life and its various problems (Like Taoism and personal philosophies). The "ideal philosophy" philosophy should be able to answer not only philosophical questions, but also daily and global ones, that can help those who follow it to navigate the currents of existence. In other words, it would be a philosophy with a great deal of relevance applicable to people across all walks of life. Fulfilling: That philosophy should, above all, provide meaning for its followers, and not only a short-term meaning, but a grand, existential one. It should, for instance, be able to answer and attack the logic of nihilism , which claims that life is objectively meaningless. This is something many would agree upon simply due to lack of evidence against it (AKA The Appeal to Ignorance fallacy) . In this case, it should motivate people to continue to live and even assist them to stay away from suffering thoughts and such tendencies . Hard to refute, such philosophy would be able to effectively fulfill the problematic voids that allow such philosophies to endure and be widespread in agreement. Convincing: It should be able to be practiced not only by intellectuals and philosophers, but also be approachable to the common people, who do not indulge in intellectual or philosophical matters on a regular basis. That way, even an individual of lesser intelligence would be able to understand at least a small portion of it, without the need to indulge in its complex components. In other words, such philosophy would be able to convince even those who avoid philosophy due to apathy, lack or intellect, or due to the "Bored Man Fallacy". Maximizing: An ideal philosophy should encourage people to bring out the best in themselves, develop into ideal optimal selves without overly sacrificing their health , and enhance their talents to new levels. This would make society much more productive and fulfilled than it already is, prevent stagnation , and motivate people to be more moral. I n other words, such a philosophy should be able to effectively maximize the virtues found within ourselves and within our work and behavior. Criticizing My Own Methodology Among thousands of comrades, among ten thousand enemies, only you, only you, only you made me forget my dream. ...I sacrifice. - - Griffith, Berserk The question is, is it possible to invent such an ideal philosophy? That is, a philosophy that meets all of these conditions optimally, with minimal flaws that would make it easily vulnerable to sensible criticism of both geniuses and regular folk alike? Furthermore, it is important to be able to distinguish between a philosophy of this kind, and a philosophy that is merely presented to you as ideal. When a philosophy is presented as supreme above other philosophies, it is highly advised to be critical, or else you may be vulnerable to being brainwashed, deceived, and manipulated . This is why a truly ideal philosophy isn't to be taken lightly, and isn't to be accepted so quickly. Negative, it should be examined for any flaws that would deem it very much imperfect. Presentation, especially through rhetoric, is quick to deceive the most faithful of people in it. Hence the danger of fanaticism. And of course, a philosophy presented as such as ideal, could be very destructive, shooting itself in its own foot, in the embodiment of the followers which practice it. You can see this in the fall of the Scientology Church. In theory, many organizations, countries and businesses succeeded and failed based on their organizational philosophy, for instance. The Functionality of the Truth When we fail to act accordingly to the truth, we would only deter ourselves to the change we wish to see in this world. After all, truth is but a component of execution. The truth is the key for one to make informed decisions, which is one of the basic expressions of the logical being. When you underestimate, overestimate or completely ignore reality, you could lead people to unexpected, difficult failures. These failures can be avoided through flaw-detection and through critics who are capable of making sensible counterarguments. Many people who accept the philosophy of their choice as ideal and the most correct are, usually, those who are cult members and people who do not use the art of doubt to free themselves from incorrect, perception-restricting approaches to life. I find this problematic in the world of religions, for instance, hindering the pro-philosophical function. Under the wrong hands in positions of authority, this can lead to them losing their individuality, and perhaps even their property and money. Conclusions We shouldn't trust in those who offer us the exact, absolute truth. Putting our trust without examination is an unlucky move. On the other hand, when we refuse learning from anything and anyone, we technically deter ourselves from our own research (Conventional or otherwise) . Ideally, any idea must be examined and verified before being accepted as accurate. The same weight of consideration should then be amplified at the sight of those who claim to possess an ideal philosophy in whatever field that philosophy may be about. As ad-hominem as it may sound to you, marketing is a double-edged sword that can be used be skilful people to hide their ulterior motives. There is a certain saying: "Do not view anything to be a Torah from Mount Sinai." This means: do not fall into the trap of blind belief or faith. Instead, work to improve your logical skills, and you will become independent from possible enslaving and deceiving theories of the power-hungry and of the megalomaniacs.

  • The Philosophy of Law Enforcement: Ethics, Power, and the Burden of the Badge

    "Morality and ethics, when enforced as a Society, how are they ethical as all?" -- Mr. John Duran (Subcategory Directory on Law and Order) (Corruption Directory) (Philosocom's Directory on Competency) (Background music) Introduction Police officers are, in essence, the physical manifestation of the law. They are the enforcers of what their country defines as "Justice." As such, they hold a unique and dangerous position in society: their use of power must be perfectly balanced against the situation at hand and the moral authority they represent. Without this delicate balance, a police force devolves into one of two extremes: total incompetence or a gang of state-funded thugs defined by disproportionate brutality. The Thankless Dilemma of Policing Unless a country is a utopian paradise, police work is far from easy. It is a high-wire act of preserving conflicting values: Lowering corruption while remaining uncorrupted. Preventing avoidable deaths while facing lethal threats. Detecting criminals while enduring harsh criticism from the public. The police officer stands constantly within a painful dilemma: Why serve a nation, or a people, that constantly degrades and shames me, despite the hard work I put in to uphold the law? The answer lies in human nature. We humans do not praise those who stand in our way, regardless of whether our endeavors are legitimate. We praise those who make us feel good—even if that feeling is destructive, like the temporary high of an unhealthy addiction. Conversely, we condemn and belittle those who block our path, even if their opposition is for our own good. Humans seek "good," but not always the good that is in our best interests. Therefore, the enforcers who block our worst impulses will always be hurt by the public—verbally, and often physically. What Makes a Police Force "Good"? Determining the morality of a police force depends on two fundamental questions: Is the "Justice" they represent actually good?  (Based on widely accepted moral standards). Are the representatives doing their jobs competently? "Competence" here does not just mean making arrests; it refers to the avoidance of unnecessary brutality. Only when these conditions are met can a citizen determine if their arrest is justified for the common good, or if it is an act of tyranny. In the end, police officers are servants. Even if we dislike their methods, they exist for our safety and the authority of the State. Without enforcers, society dissolves into anarchy. Governments without the power to enforce laws are ineffective. Even the most peaceful nations, such as Liechtenstein, maintain a police force because the state is a necessary tool for survival in a civilized, financial world. Corruption: The Betrayal of Servitude The worst kind of police force is one that does not place servitude above self-interest. The payment an officer receives is the incentive for the job . If an officer accepts a bribe, that incentive loses its functional worth. Why should the State fund an officer who takes double payment—one from the tax, one from the criminal—while failing to do the job expected of them? Corruption must be dealt with ruthlessly in the name of competence. If an officer cannot survive on their pay without violating the law they are sworn to protect, they should find a different profession, not become a criminal with a badge. The Eichmann Defense: Morality Over Orders Because an officer is under constant scrutiny from both civilians and the state, personal morality must be prioritized higher than the paycheck. Why? Because even if you find yourself in a corrupt force, you have the individual agency to set an example of proper justice. You must never fall into the trap of Adolf Eichmann, the senior Nazi official who defended his atrocities by claiming, "I only did what I was told to do." To those considering a career in law enforcement: Do not just consider the pay, the pension, or the safety. Ask yourself: Am I prepared to follow this authority's view of Justice? And finally, should you choose to disobey an order in the name of your own superior morality—prepare yourself. You must be ready to either defend your actions in court or flee the country entirely. If you care for morality as well as your livelihood, consider becoming a police officer only for a force that is as transparent and ethical as possible. That is the only way to safeguard your own soul from the corruption of power.

  • From Neolithic Spirals to an Idea of Immortality on Darwinian “Rite” (By Christian Horgos)

    (Disclaimer: The guest posts do not necessarily align with Philosocom's manager, Mr. Tomasio Rubinshtein's beliefs, thoughts, or feelings. The point of guest posts is to allow a wide range of narratives from a wide range of people. To apply for a guest post of your own, please send your request to mrtomasio@philosocom.com) (Directory on Perception) (Immortality Directory: https://www.philosocom.com/post/the-danger-of-immortality ) (Background music) A fundamental miracle is the very appearance of the first living cell in conditions in which organic substances must have aligned extraordinarily favourably, for the emergence of life. So why hasn't another miracle of the same magnitude happened? It is a problem of belief to think about an afterlife based on Evolutionary Law. And some clues might come from the Neolithic. Let's say there are one in a thousand billion chances, but on what basis can you say with absolute certainty that some kind of afterlife based on the laws of evolution has not or will never appear? This essay aims to explore such a tiny possibility, but which can offer a shred of hope for those who are seeking a purpose in life.  Modern thinkers of the world have glimpsed a possibility of the individual soul's "imprinting" of a great universal consciousness , transcending time. Nikola Tesla said: "My brain is just a receptor, in the Universe there is a nucleus from which we obtain knowledge, power and inspiration. I have not penetrated the secrets of this nucleus, but I know that it exists". Aldous Huxley emphasized the "collective subconscious " in his book "The Gates of Perception. Heaven and Hell", which he concludes, by the way, with a plea for the survival of individual souls in a "congregation" of all souls. Rupert Sheldrake was a supporter of the idea of ​​a collective subconscious, as well as the famous Dr. Carl Gustav Jung, the parent of the current of analytical psychology based on the subconscious collective. The basic idea is that maintaining an imprint of the individual soul on the horizon of a collective subconscious independent of temporal boundaries would practically ensure a kind of "immortality" . A fundamental question would be how it is possible, strictly under the conditions of Darwin's evolutionism, for a "world beyond" to have emerged. Here is a possible answer, not necessarily the only or a certain one. Ancient man imagined, intensely desired, practiced multimillennial rituals and above all believed in various forms of heaven . And because of this neurological need, the brain, with its amazing possibilities , may have created at some point the "psychic dough" necessary for the baking of a surviving consciousness, just as the ancestral biological brain designed and made each new organ: eye, nose, ear.   Carl Jung’s synchronicity for ‘significant’ adaptations Such an idea seems particularly bold, so I appeal, in support of it, to the chapter " Science and the Unconscious" written by Dr. Marie-Louise von Franz for the book "Man and His Symbols ", coordinated by Carl Gustav Jung. Thus, we find at page 306: “Physicist Wolfgang Pauli has pointed out that, due to new discoveries , our idea of ​​ the evolution of life requires a revision that could take into account an area of ​​interrelation between the unconscious psyche and biological processes. Until recently, it was assumed that the mutation of species occurred randomly and that a selection took place by which the ‘significant’, well-adapted species survived and the others disappeared. But modern evolutionists have pointed out that the selection of such mutations by pure chance would have lasted much longer than the known age of our planet allows. Jung’s concept of ‘synchronicity’ could be helpful here, because it sheds light on some rarer, ‘limit’ phenomena, some exceptional events, in this way, it is therefore possible to explain how ‘significant’ adaptations and mutations occurred in a shorter time than would have been necessary in the case of random mutations (...) It seems, therefore, that such anomalous accidental phenomena occur when there is a need or a vital need, this fact could further explain why a certain species of animal, under great pressure or in urgent need, could produce significant (but acausal) changes in its external material structure". These would be the neurological premises of the emergence of a possible "afterlife", as a spiral survival of energetic consciousness .   Neolithic Spirals Symbolizing the Immortality Spirals are found in many Neolithic megaliths such as at Tarxien (Malta), Castelluccio (Sicily), Newgrange (Ireland), Piodao/Chaz D'Egua (Portugal), Pierowall (Scotland), Bardal (Norway), Göbekli Tepe (Turkey), La Zarza-La Zarcita (Canary Islands) etc. It is illogical to think that people moved and carved huge blocks of stone just for some random ornaments so that the spirals must have had a close connection with their consciousness. A provocative explanation was offered by researchers D. Lewis-Williams and David Pearce, in their book “Inside the Neolithic mind: Consciousness, Cosmos and the realm of the Gods” . According to this book the spiral is associated with a stage of altered consciousness that leads to visionary experiences. There are also other authors who see spirals as a symbol of the passage of souls to immortality. Looking at the ancient megaliths scattered throughout the world, there is a general perception that the carved spirals would have reflected eternity. It is also remarkable that in regressive hypnosis experiences, when you come to stand in front of the essence of your own consciousness-soul, perceptions of spiral vortexes are frequent.

  • The Robot Lover Dilemma -- How Romance and A.I Are Morally Questionable

    (Background music) (Philosocom's Directory on AI) (Philosocom's Subcategory Directory on Dilemmas and Problems) Imagine a possible reality in the future where you could have your ideal lover, without any emotional risk whatsoever. No arguing, no cheating, nothing that could harm your relationship. That is, unless you wish for it to happen. You can already see the roots of it in modern-day Japan, where some people choose to literally marry an AI unit. One that cannot choose to divorce you, one that will love you forever, until its battery runs out or something, and you'll just have to recharge it. It's an "ideal" love only in theory, you know. That's because you're essentially creating a relationship with a slave. Did you know? The word "robot" comes from the Chezch word "Robota", which means "forced labor". Should you choose to love an A.I unit/robot, you essentially choose to love a mechanical slave, that is or not tailored to your desires. Can we deem such love morally legitimate when we already morally oppose s** slavery? Can the love of a mechanical being be moral if that being cannot act independently of your desires? After all, it is a product, and products are not like human beings; they are not made to be independent. They are made to please. And a good product is one that satisfies its consumers. Do you see the dilemma? Human love is a very uncertain and imperfect thing. Some may even argue that this imperfection, this vulnerability, this flaw, is one of the things that grant it its charm and appeal . Whether you're on good terms or not, married or not, the other person can always decide that they no longer want you and leave you. [Human] love hurts. Marriage cannot prevent such a thing because people have the right to divorce their significant others. Additionally, other problems may arise during a human relationship, such as disagreements on core things, from politics and religion to taking care of the household. These days of human imperfection, just to have kids, may be over in the future, as AI lovers could one day replace your girlfriend, boyfriend, husband, or wife. They might as well be superior to them in every way. No more dating for the ideal "soul mate" . You could just buy one in your local electronics store, where you also buy your computers, your phones, and other products. Imagine the following: A fully customizable AI lover, fully purchasable at half price during New Year's Eve and Valentine's Day! No more broken hearts, no more disappointments, no more conflicts. Just have the required funds, and you might as well never be a lonely man or woman! That's what happens when you see people as just carriers of function, instead of beings that have the right to exist and behave independently of these functions. That's what happens when you regard relationships as transactional and not as something more wholesome. You might as well reduce the person whom you love as a provider of your function to love and be loved. Why focus on the being, the person themselves, when you can act in a self-interested way, and prioritize what they're doing and/or suppose to be doing? I am being cynical. In a book I once read, the philosopher known as Osho criticized someone for having their computer welcome them whenever they turned it up. He argued that such a function is delusional because it is a robotic one, the output of a machine. It's not like that computer cared for its operator, right? Love is not like machinery, no matter how advanced, cognition-capable, feeling, and opinionated it is, like a biological being is, right? But what if all these "biologically exclusive" things are just that, nothing more than a function? A behavior? What if a robot lover could actually do their job by loving someone else? What if robots were able to cry, complain, and be depressed? All at the press of a button. A machine or a computer application to stimulate and please you. All of this is due to a human's desire, like a puppeteer or just a very lonely man or woman who doesn't have a partner to spend New Year's Eve or Valentine's Day with. The same goes for s** unless we are to regard s** as different than making love. Then, love-making indeed contains a human element that cannot be fulfilled by an A.I lover. That is, unless we are to create a very uncanny thing called a robot human , which I covered about before. A mechanical being made to imitate human beings so perfectly, it's almost impossible to distinguish between the two types of beings! Would then love-making remain exclusive to humans? Because if it won't, "robot humans" would be able to replace humans even on that department. Before we had such intelligent AI, we had puppets whom we assigned ourselves to. Playing with dolls was something that was as popular as playing video games, for children. And yet, as video games became as popular for children as they are for adults, one might ask themselves -- Can AI now breach another frontier of human life -- the romantic one? People have already begun developing emotions for fictional characters in the form of, for example, dating simulators , or any other game where you can have a companion as your romantic partner. Nowadays, it may be seen as childish, infantile, or even creepy, but when these teenagers grow up, so will their trends, which might now be seen as outlandish by others. Some of them may already "simp" for fictional characters. If you could have a robot who could love you and be ever-so loyal to you, would you choose them, in favor of a human partner? Remember, the only function missing is the ability to bring kids. You can therefore say that human love is a gamble, mainly for the sake of having kids (if that's your intention, of course). Once even that element is out of the picture, and once AI companions could be just as buyable as any common electronic device, you'd no longer have to "hit the market" and seek an actual human to fulfill the functions you seek to be fulfilled. When it comes to A.I, they don't have to be actual robots; they can be holograms, or perhaps a combination of the two. A computer application with the ability to appear/behave like a being, can be regarded as an A.I Unit. Nonetheless, there will be no more arguing and no risk of any form of abandonment. Only certain love for an entity best suited for your individuality, until the day you die (or until something might happen to the "device"). Would you take it? Remember: Humans might as well be just inferior machines -- biological machines, of course. Perhaps this biological, collective arrangement that we seek today, is nothing more than a liability for our romantic interests? An inferior liability, whose only advantage is to bring you and them children? After all, a lot of couples divorce nowadays, at least in the U.S. Automation isn't something that would only affect the employment sector; it might just as well affect every, single, area, of our lives, if we're able to afford it and supply the manufacturers making these machines and/or applications. They can be not only coworkers, but also friends, teachers, traveling companions, and even lovers; they could be designed in any way, shape, or form you want, if there is a customer demand for it, just like any commercial product. Should we treat beings as functions, like we may treat machinery? Wouldn't it ruin true love if we can buy a lover like we buy a computer or phone?

  • The Rubinshteinic Meditations on Salvation

    ( Directory on Religion: How Religion and Democracy Struggle ) (Philosocom's Subcategory Directory on Despair and Surrender) (Philosocom's Subcategory Directory on Potential and Hope) (Philosocom's directory on death: https://www.philosocom.com/post/defining-death )   The Rubinshteinic Meditations on Salvation (Background music) There is only one way and that is your way. There is only one salvation and that is your salvation...What is to come will be created in you and from you. Hence look into yourself. Do not compare. Do not measure. No other way is like yours...You must fulfill the way that is in you. -- Carl Jung Three things are necessary for the salvation of man: to know what he ought to believe ; to know what he ought to desire; and to know what he ought to do. -- St. Thomas Aquinas How Suffering is Intertwined With Salvation To simply define salvation, it is a hope for better days . It is a hope for a better state of affairs that hopefully will be permanent. A reality where much of our current suffering is reduced. For some, it is hope for redemption. For others, it is the desire to be forgiven for one's misdeeds. Either way, the common for all of these specific variants of salvation, stems from the desire to suffer no more. To be liberated from one's pains , and to grow instead into what can, subjectively, be defined by the self, as a life worth living. Whatever life is worth living, always has to fall on the beholder, on the individual, experiencing life. Salvation, therefore, is a personal journey, and it is a journey whose part of it is necessarily internal. For each person, there is his or her own "Tikkun" in life. That "Tikkun" can be seen as the reason for one's existence purpose. Once you are aligned with yourself, with no guilt or shame, it is only then when you can understand what you should do in order to attain your own salvation, against the odds of circumstance's tyranny. I find the concept of salvation to be sad, because for salvation to be desired by a man, the man has to suffer first. It's like it comes from the desire to leave this realm for good in favour of a worthier realm. Salvation in Existentialism This is why, in the religious sphere, salvation often has to do with the afterlife , AKA, with a world better than this one, external of it. Salvation also assumes that we are needed to be freed of something which confines us to something, like to a chain, or to a loop. It is something philosophers like Nietzsche would disapprove of, instead advocating to loving life so much, you would desire repeating the same life time ad-infinitum. Philosophers like Nietzsche and Albert Camus would seek salvation from the concept itself of salvation. Albert Camus would tell you to imagine Sisyphus happy , and to embrace not a world external to this world, but this very world we all live in. In other words, for the existential, continental philosophers, those who rival the cold analytic philosophical trends, true salvation lies in embracing this world. Salvation in Humanity's Religions “Real salvation begins when you realize that the real savior is yourself!” -- Mehmet Murat ildan Judaism and Christianity assume that there is a need for a particular person to, so to speak, "suck" the sin out of all humanity permanently by suffering great trials and tribulations. These two religions glorify one's sacrificial suffering for the greater good. In Christianity, you have Jesus Christ. The legendary Son of God, who is claimed, wholeheartedly, to carry the sins of humanity on his shoulders, and be crucified for it, too, by the brutal, oppressive Roman Empire. In Judaism, you have the lesser demon, who is a half demon, half angel, known as Azazel. Azazel would be personified in sacrifices, and would symbolize the sins of many. Upon the sacrifices of Azazel the scapegoat, many of humanity are then freed and forgiven for the very sins they may atone for, in the Day of Atonement. In religions, salvation is marketed as a reward in favour of loyalty to one's faith. You are expected to be loyal to your faith from all your heart, and in return you shall be rewarded, mainly in the afterlife. Salvation Subverted in Corruption It is still unclear to me, however, why would someone who "lives in sin" deserves to be burned in hell. That's a horrible thing to believe in, for otherwise relatively petty things. I see heaven and hell in that way, as a form of "carrot and stick". I also view such polar ideals as the grounds for coercive control of the masses. In Christianity there are the 7 deadly sins: Pride, Wrath, Greed, Gluttony, Slothfulness, Lust, and Envy. The Humane Aspect of the "Deadly Sins" It appears that, in some religious contexts, it is sufficient to be overly proud of oneself, to be greedy, to be lazy, and so on, to deserve eternal damnation in the deep fires of hell. However, regardless of the splendid solutions offered by religion, it is still difficult to prove that such "sins" are indeed horrible. Is it that bad to be proud of your success? Is it that bad to use rage/wrath to create passionate work? Is it that bad to seek much money in a world where capitalism reigns supreme, and where countries are also businesses? The answer in my opinion, is a a big "NO". I think true sins are expressed in being truly evil. As a philosopher, I see these "deadly sins" as entirely humane and thus worthy to be regarded as legitimate. I think that, as long as we are good and not evil in our conduct, we shouldn't be concerned of seeking salvation for these humane traits. Finally, on The Forbidden Fruit Eat the fruit and you can have the desires of your heart. It's not evil, it's noble and good. You'll be praised for it. -- Orson Scott Card What is known as the Original Sin, from the Genesis book of the Old Testament. The idea of wanting to try something despite being told not to, is apparently too severe a sin. A sin so severe it made Adam and Eve fall from grace. in Genesis, The Forbidden Fruit came from the tree of knowledge between good and evil. This is considered a forbidden fruit because it is this very same knowledge, granted from that tree, is what separated the humans, Adam and Eve, away from God. The eating of that fruit wasn't necessary. However, what that fruit granted these biblical humans was knowledge. And to quote Ecclesiastes 1:18. A lot of human wisdom leads to a lot of sorrow. More knowledge only brings more sadness. Knowledge is power. And the idea of power is simple... Power corrupts, and power corrupts absolutely. Thus, it is the very pursuit of knowledge, and the very knowledge attained, that can make us feel so-ever bittersweet. For in great power, comes great responsibility. And the tragic tale of knowledge is that can change you forever, to the point that you will never be entirely satisfied. And philosophy is the epitome of frustration. Philosophy is the epitome of dissatisfaction. Philosophy is a social risk. You cannot philosophize if you are not depraved of the very same things that compel you to philosophize. And if you end up alone, as many philosophers did throughout history, your only salvation is in your own death. Otherwise? Otherwise you must keep on the path of wisdom. For once you get into it, and into it very well, there might be no way back for you. Beyond temporary respites, you have no saviors, besides a lover, perhaps? "To be a philosopher is to have already died and become immortal . Now you are the walking dead. A zombie. Everyone thinks you are alive, though a little strange. But the truth is that long ago you died and became immortal." -- J.S., 2017 I have ate many, many forbidden fruits in my life-time. There is no one to save me but my own acceptance of my chosen fate. I will always want to rectify this world through Philosocom Article Empire. I enjoy this despair. For this despair is my own savior. It gives me hope to always rectify the indefinite flaws of our world. My ultimate salvation is in death. I, however, have no desire to die. Instead, I prefer to use the concept of death, to live. After all, it is within my very own mortality, that I can keep on honing my mastery in philosophy, and use it not for power, not for evil, but for good.

  • Affiliation Bias (Also, Philosocom's Directory on Biases)

    The Directory https://www.philosocom.com/post/the-bias-of-language https://www.philosocom.com/post/the-family-tribe-bias https://www.philosocom.com/post/the-nostalgia-experiment-when-bias-is-right https://www.philosocom.com/post/importance-and-luxury-bias-of-prestige-in-work https://www.philosocom.com/post/climbing-the-bias-breaker-hill https://www.philosocom.com/post/how-to-overcome-the-timing-bias-for-better-relationships Synopsis by Mr. Chris Kingsley and Mr. Joseph Bright The article discusses the concept of "affiliation bias," which refers to the tendency to support and promote ideas or principles simply because one is associated with them or the groups behind them. It argues that this bias can hinder the pursuit of truth by causing individuals to overlook flaws and counterarguments. The article uses various examples to illustrate how affiliation bias operates, and stresses the importance of recognizing and overcoming such biases to achieve a more objective understanding of reality. The article offers a thoughtful analysis of how affiliation bias can affect one's judgment and objectivity, providing a clear definition of the bias and its implications with concrete examples. It also emphasizes the importance of critical thinking and the willingness to question one's beliefs and affiliations, encouraging intellectual honesty and openness. (Background music) ********************* Introduction To the Bias In Question To promote something, like an ideology or a principle, just because one is affiliated with it or with a sect/organization behind it, is something one can call "Bias by affiliation". To be affiliated with something, you see, instead of choosing to look at things from an eagle's view, is something that could be difficult for one in the search for the truth. It's simply because this bias encourages you to convince yourself it is true, even if there is a certain flaw that makes it questionable. Results of Thinking Under the Affiliation Bias: 1.Content Creation Due to this bias, some flaws may be overlooked, and thus, the content provider wouldn't be as reliable as they otherwise could've been . They would've been more reliable if they recognized the flaws of their agendas instead of promoting it to be loftier than it actually is. Furthermore, a less biased content creator would not make their content so pro or against something, just because they are affiliated with it or is against their affiliation. Instead, they would strive for a more balanced approach, and be open enough to criticize the very thing, person or organization they support and belong to. That is unless you create content for the sake of advertising... Then, you'll have to be biased. Are all advertisements reliable? What are even the odds that they are? There are there to make you buy/follow/subscribe to something without giving you the bigger picture. The shallowness of the world deserves to be criticized, even if it's a necessary evil. 2. General Overview Would you be willing to go against your own religion? Your family values? Your chosen political party? If you are not biased by your affiliation, then you would, if you didn't deny the truth of its existence . If you automatically support someone or something because you are affiliated with it, then you would have a harder time criticizing them, and thus you would overlook the counter-points which are against them. That is even though criticism can be intellectually used to expand our understanding of reality. That includes lambasting, even. And if someone would point out their flaws, you might feel the need to be defensive. Since offense can be used out of defensiveness, you may use fallacies such as ad-hominem, whataboutism and the strawman's fallacy to divert the feelings of being attacked, by projecting them unto the critic. Learning From The Bias' Fault From this we can learn two insights: Information presented in social media feeds is not accurate, despite being preferred by the population over articles. UnconventionalRD: "Social media also moves a lot faster than blogging. You post something, people see it, and you start getting engagement and feedback almost immediately ." 1.1. However, despite the masssive userbase invovled, many social media posts lack sources, as there are less/no consequences for individual people posting information on social media before verifying it. Thus, they increase the spread of misinformation over these popular platforms. The affiliation bias can deceive you merely because you support a certain group/social category, or are a part of such a category. 2.1. In a sense, positivity can therefore blind us from the broader, more-dualistic scope of reality . That bias is well-deserved when someone passed away (AKA honoring the dead), but not in many other cases. Philosophical Commentary In philosophy, being proven wrong is more important than one may think. It is even more important when one recognizes their fallacy. This can easily be the stepping stone to the truth. In society in general, it is a bigger thing to convert to another religion than it is to subscribe to a different philosophy or philosopher. It's because religion is usually more dominant in one's life than one's thoughts are, as religion often comes with a greater sense of identity, both individually, collectively, and in some cases, nationally. If you live in a Christian nation, for example, and decide you turn Hindu, not all people are going to like it. That could even include your family. As a result of this religious change you might even be estranged . You might be harassed, laughed at and so on. The religions I mentioned are just examples; I wasn't referring to Christianity specifically as I didn't to Hinduism. It's just that, if you decide one day to become nihilist after being existentialist, you will not be as bothered by other people as you would with adopting a new religion (like, I don't know, Shinto-ism). And the greater value normally attributed to religion compared to philosophy, as the former is greatly institutional, often compels you to be biased to your affiliation to it. Why I Choose To Not Be Affiliated That is a problem that I have with any societal affiliation: The fact that it isn't as open minded as philosophy, and the fact that open mindedness to include new ideas is imperative for the seeking of the truth . Not as open minded to the point of finding out that some of its claims were false. This is why I have a problem with being a part of society : It's unnecessarily more difficult to criticize it when you're not outside of it. To quote Mr. Kaiser Basileus : There's no point thinking outside the box if you can't act outside the box. Religion is a very tribal thing, you see. Not because of primitivity, but because it is so embedded with identity, it is very tempting to become biased by your affiliation with it. If presented with something being declared as false but is actually a very important thing in your religion, then you, the religious member, will be inclined to find as many ways as possible to debunk it. And you, in some instances, may feel compelled to do it in the name of loyalty , or even in the name of not being criticized by your own people. It difficult therefore, to choose the religious path in life, if you seek greater clarity, which much of it is arguably given by doubting yourself and your ideals. You might want to be agnostic just to prepare a more-open mind. Apply the same to any affiliation that won't necessarily accept you if you criticize it in the name of the truth. (Note: Such ideas can apply to fields outside of religion, of course. Like politics, sports, even, and philosophical beliefs surrounding consumerism . Anything were affiliation/ attachment is a feature) One of my motives for partially isolating myself from this world was to try and be more neutral and less biased by external sources . It is done by observing things from afar and very rarely participating in them, whether these are politics or even a comment section about something intellectually based.

  • The Problems of Following Your Passions

    (Philosocom's Subcategory Directory on Dilemmas and Problems) (Philosocom's Directory on Happiness) Article Synopsis by Ms. Gabbi Grace "The Problems of Following Your Passions" is an insightful and thought-provoking article that critiques the romanticized notion of passion as a universal key to success and fulfillment. Mr. Tomasio presents a nuanced perspective on the idea of passion, rejecting the simplistic notion that it always leads to happiness. The article uses engaging illustrations to illustrate the potential consequences of unbridled passion in a real-world context, making the argument more tangible. The author advocates for a balanced approach, stating that passion should not be abandoned altogether but must be tempered with consideration for others and awareness of long-term consequences. This balance encourages readers to pursue their passions while remaining mindful of how their actions affect themselves and those around them. The article also touches on the ethical dimension of pursuing passion, particularly in relation to others' well-being. By critiquing " Reckless Individualism ," the article raises important questions about empathy, responsibility, and the interconnectedness of people in society. This is a valuable reflection, reminding readers that they do not live in a vacuum and that their choices have wider implications. The insightful conclusion suggests that the pursuit of wisdom —much like the pursuit of passion— can never fully satisfy, adding a philosophical depth to the piece. This insight encourages readers to embrace the ongoing nature of personal growth rather than expecting a static state of happiness. In conclusion, "The Problems of Following Your Passions" presents a valuable critique of the often romanticized notion of passion, offering important reflections on the need for balance, consideration, and wisdom in the pursuit of happiness. (Background music) Part I: A Critique of Personal Passions Is it true that happiness can only be attained by following our passions? No, it is not necessarily or always true. It isn't always true when, going passion after passion, we may still find ourselves unhappy. It is a cycle of endless desire . Passion is not the only thing that fuels life, and thinking so may indicate a narrow mind. Seeing passion as life's ultimate goal is problematic when it comes to other people and other circumstances that need to be considered. Harmony, like passion, is very important not only as an aspiration, but to happiness as well. A Theoretical Case Example Let's say there is someone whose passion is listening to loud music all the time, and that person lives in a neighborhood with other people who prefer quiet and serenity. Let's also say that without extremely loud music, the person becomes bored , meaning unhappy and unsatisfied. Let's say they refuse to compromise for headphones. One day, after giving up on accepting this reality of living, the person's neighbor has had enough with the music. Not only does he hate it, he becomes so annoyed that he can't focus on his job —he's too busy being anxious about going home—to the point where he is fired. Now, the neighbor is unemployed , and all because of the person with a huge appetite for loud music. The neighbor knocks on the person's door, but the person can't hear the constant knocks because they're too busy listening to a special song they really like. Eventually, the neighbor can't take it anymore and calls the police. Shortly after, two police officers fined the music-loving person with such a heavy fine that they can't pay their rent, which is due tomorrow. Now, here was the root of this problem. The guy followed his to passion to listen to loud music without caring for the desire of some people for peace. He still refused to put on headphones all the way to the life of homelessness. Is he happy now, knowing he might be kicked out of his apartment—because of his passion? It's a problem, a dilemma. Part II: Looking An The Bigger Picture You see, there are other things besides passion that are required for happiness and well-being. I'm not saying it's bad to follow one's passion, I'm saying that life is much more than the individual quest for happiness, and the things that reside in the wide zone may have a huge impact on that happiness, for good or for bad. Your passions could get in the way of other people's passions for instance. It could be a problem because none of you live in a vacuum, and this could get people conflicted with each other due to their personal pursuits. However, no matter the intensity of our emotions , or the faith in our ambitions, living in a more-healthy society means that some compromises must be made to a degree. In turn, being more collectivist in mindset, as seen in African Communalism , could help foster a more compassionate, peaceful society. We cannot therefore discard the existence of other people if we want to live in happiness, least other people will actively work to diminish our good spirits. Whether through revenge or through manipulative authority , people heavily rejected by ourselves could get back at us. However, by considering other people, they might feel compelled to consider us as well. We should consider the benefits of being beacons of light to other people's darkness, if we ourselves want to live in happiness. When Behaving Like Others Do Not Matter To You That is, of course, unless you live in the wilderness, away from any being, and sustain yourself from nature. Of course, could live both as a hermit and a thief, like Christopher Knight , who survived 27 years in that position. However, how can you expect to be satisfied for the long term when you are under the constant threat of getting caught by the authorities? And indeed, due to his pure self-serving crimes, meant for survival, Knight was jailed accordingly. Part III: Lambasting Personal Recklessness The problem I find with what I call Reckless Individualism or the " I-Don't-Give-a-Damn-ism " is that it is so narrow-minded, and having a narrow mind is the exact opposite of wisdom : It is a variant in individualism that asks: Why should I care about other people's suffering if I am better and more important than them? That is the headline of this popular approach to life. In bias it confirms to the idea of: "Every man for himself". It's an approach that could led to the deaths of those who need more considering in order to survive: Those who struggle with independence . Those who struggle fitting in to a conformist society. Those dependent on medications. In other words, the weaker layers of society. The self-sacrificial can also fit into this category. Our decisions have an affect on the outside world. We need to care or extreme situations of misfortune will only increase. The biggest asset of reckless individualism is apathy . Apathy can traumatize, and traumas can lead to mental health issues . The Antidote of Wisdom Wisdom is all about looking at the big picture and minding every aspect in that picture, and each of their relations to other aspects. Some people, I guess, lack the intellect, empathy, or both, to do it. Most, perhaps . I assume that if the person in the scenario I gave would mind the presence of other neighbors and their potential reactions to the person's passion for music, they would be able to compromise for the big picture that is the building they live in. Then, no harm—or minimal harm—would've been made. Of course, the now-homeless neighbor would have the money to make ends meet if they were just way more considerate. Part IV: Will Our Passions Lead Us to Happiness, Necessarily? Those who feel passion in their hearts automatically considered as happy people? Let's say that one's passion is drugs. They are so passionate about them that they become addicted, and when they cannot take a dose, they become depressed . Even if they would take a dose and thus have the sensation they seek—they are well aware that they are in an infinite loop; a depressing loop that borders on despair… This is an example where following one's passions does not bring happiness , but the exact opposite. However, one can be happy even if they do not pursue their passion—other things in which they do not have that much passion for can make them happy regardless of their passions. I may want, for instance, to eat a candy. Yet, no—the candy is not healthy for me. Yet, it's my passion. Perhaps if I ate something healthier I would be happier regardless of my passion for candies? Perhaps if I get an illness due to a developing sugar addiction, I won't necessarily find the happiness I desire? Also, there is the criticism that passion isn't happiness, but a type of misery. It is known as the passion trap . Our passions may make it difficult for us to accept the present. And as long as we do not accept the present, we can't be happy. We will either depend ourselves on the external world's mercy for our wellbeing, or we will ruthlessly work towards the change we wish to see in this world. Either way, happiness mainly depends on being able to be in the present state. And, you might find yourself feeling better if you pursued morality instead of your personal whims. Conclusion Ultimately, there are two conclusions from all of this: Passion alone is not always sufficient in the pursuit of happiness. This can be avoided by developing a more-holistic approach. There are some passions that could lead to the exact opposite of happiness, even if they may give us short-term satisfaction beforehand. Also, we might also regret pursuing our passions, thus subverting their initial intent. Thus, other factors should also be considered in the pursuit of happiness, from having good health to avoiding justified, yet avoidable, punishment. Extra Notes Please note: I am not saying you should not follow your passions at all . I am only saying that there are also other factors and circumstances to consider, so that the pursuit of your passions does not become an unnecessary double-edged sword. Otherwise, if these passions do not become counter-intuitive to your ambitions, and do not really cause unnecessary harm in this world... Maybe following your passions aren't necessarily as problematic? Either way, the philosopher can never be truly satisfied, compared to the rare sage, who attained an immense amount of wisdom, not much further inquiry might be required. As long as the philosopher is looking for wisdom by philosophizing, they will, never, be satisfied, completely. It's because you're always looking for something you lack. As your passion for wisdom grows, so is the suffering of currently being ignorant. This understanding brings me peace.

  • How To Examine Human Activities -- A Collection of Guides (By O. C. Isaac)

    (Disclaimer: The guest posts do not necessarily align with Philosocom's manager, Mr. Tomasio Rubinshtein's beliefs, thoughts, or feelings. The point of guest posts is to allow a wide range of narratives from a wide range of people. To apply for a guest post of your own, please send your request to mrtomasio@philosocom.com) (Philosocom's O. C. Isaac Articles) (Philosocom's Subcategory on African Philosophy) Article Overview by Ms. Gabbi Grace "How To Examine Human Activities -- A Collection of Guides" by Mr. Ogbule Chibuzo Isaac is a comprehensive exploration of human behavior, philosophy, and cultural practices. The article offers a diverse range of perspectives on various sociopolitical and cultural issues, including classical philosophy, African philosophical perspectives, and contemporary African cultural beliefs like the "Ogbanje" phenomenon. This variety makes the article intellectually stimulating and provides readers with different angles from which to view human activities and societal structures. One notable strength of this article is its integration of African philosophical perspectives, particularly through its discussion of the Ogbanje phenomenon in Nigerian culture. The author's effort to bridge African cultural philosophies with more universally recognized frameworks adds depth and uniqueness to the discussion, promoting cross-cultural understanding and appreciation. The use of classical philosophical ideas, such as those of Aristotle and Jean-Paul Sartre, adds a layer of intellectual rigor to the piece, challenging readers to think deeply about existential questions, human desires, and the nature of reality. The inclusion of these philosophical elements enriches the text and elevates the discussion beyond mere cultural analysis to more universal philosophical inquiries. The article is written in an engaging and often provocative style that encourages readers to question their assumptions and beliefs. The use of rhetorical questions ("Why should we panic?" "Are those things yours?") invites readers to engage in self-reflection , making the reading experience more engaging. Mr. Isaac's insightful observations on human nature and society, such as the discussion on egotism, the influence of social relationships , and the psychological aspects of human desires, offer readers a nuanced perspective on the complexity of human existence. The article emphasizes the importance of examining human activities in a way that is both critical and empathetic, which is crucial for understanding human society in all its diversity. In conclusion, "How To Examine Human Activities -- A Collection of Guides" by Mr. Ogbule Chibuzo Isaac is a thought-provoking and rich exploration of human behavior, philosophy, and cultural practices. (Background music) What is the need to examine some issues our sociopolitical lives? Humans according to Aristotle's view are political animals. This implies that man is a social animal who needs the social relation of others for his act and potency to fully manifest. In other words, humans are human only in the mix of others. The social influence of others affects humans in their conscious and conscience development thus in turn affects human conception towards a particular reality. It's no wonder there are varieties in culture, traditions , belief, norms and values which are based upon human relationships in a particular society, despite these differences some can still be captured the similar with others view, pointing to the fact that society is an organic whole by which each element is inter-related. Man by nature is so egoistic who seeks for anything that can only be favorable to his individualistic existence but despite that, Humans still maintain that social aspect, the egoistic part of man keep influencing his socio-political relationship which was captured in the first state of human nature as it was a game of might and the 'fits' are made to survive. Man according to Aristotle is a rational animal , which implies that man possesses the act to think towards his existence, environment and his relationship with others. It is in this sense that one can understand that society is an organization of the people, for the people, and by the people. If you don't think about others, others will think for you, thus has been the base where all the socio-political ideology and practices have been theorized. Most of these theories include: Communalism , socialism, capitalism , democracy and to mention but a few. Therefore, to discover the best way man should be in society man needs to think and be able to examine his relationship with others in order to negate the danger of Human activities which might not really be immediate but in future to come. The quest of examining sociopolitical issues is not for one person, it is for everyone but better analyzed by the sound minds. This question however is very important in human life and development as it stands as the base on how best the society and the relationship of man should be. African Culture In Nigeria: Obajne (A case of study) A Myth or Reality The Myth Of Ogbanje is regarded as an influential spirit that possesses little children in Igbo traditional society, this spirit influences little children and makes them behave negatively to the norms and instincts of their parents and the society. Most People believe that Ogbanje is merely a myth, but the wonderful part is that it influences most of their children even till the adult stage. A cultural myth Ogbanje has existed among the Igbo people of Nigeria. These children may have morbidities that are manageable while some normal children may have to live with the stigma of being labelled such. The objective of this work was to assess Nigeria’s perception of ogbanje phenomenon and morbidity in ogbanje children. The Belief of Ogbanje It has since been a literary and cultural phenomenon, however is of clinical interest since the children may have some symptomatology pointing to a clinical entity . Also the belief of mothers on the phenomenon may affect their health seeking behaviour ultimately affecting morbidity and mortality rates. The modern day Igbo mother may no longer patronise native doctors who heal with voodoo , but may patronize herbal practitioners where they receive herbs of which their content and dosages are unknown. Belief in cosmic powers and supernatural causes to ill-health may also make mothers seek help at churches and prayer houses rather than seek orthodox help. The Effects of Ogbanje on Nigerian Children However, many cultural and religious beliefs exist in Nigeria and amongst the Igbo tribe of Nigeria . One of such beliefs is the “Ogbanje phenomenon. Ogbanje is an expression of the Igbo tribe of Nigeria which means a repeater. It describes a magical child who repeatedly dies, re-enters the mother’s womb only to be born again. The ogbanje spirit is said to be a malevolent spirit which plagues the family with misfortune and grief. Ogbanje children are believed to be committed to a shortened life span to the deities. With this commitment they receive a desirable appearance or outstanding psychic talent but at the expense of human relationships. They are said to have spiritual companions with which they always communicate supernaturally resulting in hallucinatory experiences or dreams. They are also said to arrange to die at an agreed time of a brief illness usually at about puberty or a significant day of their life such as their birthday. Conclusion: Obanje -- a Myth or Fact? The picture below shows how African conceive of the efficacy of Ogbanje, critically looking at the picture above we could see the simple analysis pointing to the ontological look of all Africans. In their simple sense, before a Child is come into existence, there are several forces driving their being, these forces are always pacify and control by natal rituals by offering sacrifices to the deities that influences their being and that's the only way most of the children do away with those forces while the careless parents neglect this implication and their offsprings are mostly trapped by this spirit. Nevertheless, it is also good to know that this Ogbanje spirit falls on Nigerian Children with or without natal rituals because those forces are believed to still have influences on human daily activities but are said to stop after proper rituals to liberate the child in question. While in Why -- Ask Why? Why are people pushed with multiple desires, passion, emotion, anxiety and the likes...? Psychologically, some people allow their id to suppress their ego  and thus influence their human nature but why should it be so? Though we are aware of our innate desires which we strive to attain in every minute on earth but why should it be multiple? Forgetting that we all are striving to fill up nothingness! Have you taken time to think about this nonsensical world... The purpose of this life: We try to make meaning with our primitive-cultural beliefs, dogmatic beliefs of our religious doctrine and all other selfish opinions claiming to have found life meaningful... all are opinions conferred on presumption and not Truth... though humans claim that to be wise enough but indeed they're clever ...painting their self opinion to be Truth. Then having known these facts, why should you be overwhelmed by burdens of pains, pleasures, emotions, desires whereas you know that life is too short? Among those things you desire to get, if you end up getting one out of ten then be happy and if you end up getting all be happy too but always remember that nothing is permanent including yourself and nothing external is yours then why should you be angry when your external things leaves you? Are those things yours? You strive to have a child as if it's our purpose of being here? Giving birth does that justify why you're here? You will still leave them and they can never be you then why should you be angry? Why should people's life influence you? How sure are you whether they're right? Your friends fail you and you're angry? You are angry because the one whom you love ended up failing you or cheating on you, so why should you panic ? It's true that you love him/her but does he or she belong to you? Even at that, he or she claims to be smart, being smart for how many years then everything will fade away, why should you be angry? Let them go, there are not yours and let them cheat after all for how many years? You strive to diffuse in pain and suffering here in order to attain a better world to come , how sure are you that such a world ever exists? Then if there should be the route that leads to another end, then it is even good to die on time but if everything ends here then why should we panic? The best is to live in peace and contribute to humanity (development of people and transformation of the society). The Question of Existence and Nonexistence Nothingness is basic to understanding existence . Nothingness is the absence of being. It is ontologically dependent on being, meaning that it can only exist in relation to being. Existentialism holds that humans are the beings that bring nothingness into the world. We understand the world by questioning being. For example, if a mechanic is trying to find out what is wrong with a car that has broken down, they might look in the carburetor. In doing so, they must be considering the possibility that there is nothing in the carburetor. If there is something in the carburetor, then the problem must be somewhere else. Sartre illustrated this point in Being and Nothingness by saying, "If I question the carburetor, it is because I consider it possible that there is nothing there in the carburetor." In other words, the mechanic's questioning of the carburetor is only possible because of the nothingness that exists within the carburetor. If the carburetor were full of something, there would be no need to question it. This shows that nothingness is essential to our understanding of existence. It is through our understanding of nothingness that we are able to make choices and understand how things might be if they were not as they are. But, to be exact, I myself expected to see Pierre, and my expectation has caused the absence of Pierre to happen as a real event concerning this cafe. It is an objective fact at present that I have discovered this absence, and it presents itself as a synthetic relation between Pierre and the setting in which I am looking for him. Pierre's absence haunts this cafe and is the conditioning of self-nihilating organisation as ground. By contrast, judgments which I can make subsequently to amuse myself, such as, “Wellington is not in this cafe, Paul Valery is no longer here, etc.” But, to be exact, I myself expected to see Pierre, and my expectation has caused the absence of Pierre to happen as a real event concerning this cafe. It is an objective fact at present that I have discovered this absence, and it presents itself as a synthetic relation between Pierre and the setting in which I am looking for him. Pierre absent haunts this cafe and is the conditioning of self-nihilating organisation as ground. By contrast, judgments which I can make subsequently to amuse myself, such as, “Wellington is not in this cafe, Paul Valery is no longer here, etc.” These have a purely abstract meaning; they are pure applications of the principle of negation without real or efficacious foundation, and they never succeed in establishing a real relation between the cafe and Wellington or Valery. A Guide Towards a Good Relationship Dear singles and those searching, I have this for you: A wise person would always manage a relationship to something meaningful, such as marriage. Unfortunately, most times before we understand and know the real essence of that thing called " love ", a number of past breakups, heartbreaks and selfless care rewarded with uncountable betrayals and cheating without remorse must have killed it. That is the case most times. Then you sit and wonder if this love thing is really for you or you are just wasting your time that should have been channelled into more productive ventures. Yes, it can be devastating sometimes. Again, most times we dare against all odds and insist on marrying for love alone, irrespective of the series of pains and rewards of love with cheating but eventually end up gaining perpetual pain as marriage. Then it may be too late. Allow Your relationship to be born out of genuine friendship first because real friendship is bold and courageous in truth but mare expression of love laced with irrepressible emotions, premarital sex and romance is usually fearful and weak in truth. This is why some of you cannot face Your fear and correct the people that you claim You love when they are wrong because You are afraid they might get angry. Also, unending tolerance and the inherent ability of your partner to genuinely compliment. Your consistent efforts and strength and also moderate/tame. Your weaknesses should be Your primary guiding principle to finding a different soul in a different body. Be extremely careful so as to not run away from loneliness as a single person and end up gaining a sour and solitary life as a relationship. That is why You must not rush anything. Everything must come at its own time. Build a healthy relationship with and possibly marry your friend and peace of mind coloured with happiness and success will happen. However, ignorantly succumb to mare love built on illicit sex and romance alone and endurance will happen in Your relationship, even in marriage if you eventually marry that person. FAILED NATION: Nigeria: A Case of Study. Nigeria is a nation that is characterized by its lack of weaving, eating bread that is not harvested, acclaiming bullies as heroes, and valuing conquerors as bountiful. It is a nation that despises passion but submits in awakening. It is a nation that does not raise its voice, boast, or rebel when faced with adversity. It is a nation with a fox as its statesman and a juggler as its philosopher, and whose art is patching and mimicking. It is a nation with sages who are dumb with years and strongmen who are still in the cradle. It is a nation divided into fragments, each deeming itself a nation. Fact About Human Society Human history can be viewed as a slowly dawning awareness that we are members of a larger group. Initially our loyalties were to ourselves and our immediate family , next, to bands of wandering hunter-gatherers, then to tribes, small settlements, city-states, nations. We have broadened the circle of those we love. We have now organized what are modestly described as super-powers, which include groups of people from divergent ethnic and cultural backgrounds working in some sense together — surely a humanizing and character-building experience. If we are to survive, our loyalties must be broadened further, to include the whole human community, the entire planet Earth. Many of those who run the nations will find this idea unpleasant. They will fear the loss of power. We will hear much about treason and disloyalty. Rich nation-states will have to share their wealth with poor ones. But the choice, as H. G. Wells once said in a different context, is clearly the universe or nothing. Morality in Subjection "A morally sound person does not support evil, even when that evil is done by friends, family, or party. You will still object to it". -- Sir Ray Murphy. The above saying brings forth the following question: Each day, we clamor about how corrupt people or politicians have become. We attack them endlessly with words. The honest question is: If we were to be their children or their partners, and knowing fully well that our father or partner is corrupt in the position they hold or in what they do, would we: Voice out and challenge our father? Voice out and hand our husband to the authorities? The answer is blunt: no . We might even get corrupt together with them. I have never seen the children of powerful people trumpeting their parents' bad personalities to the public. Have you? The reason is that personal interest is involved. We can only clamor and bring them to book if our interest is not involved. As a student of human nature, I say to us all: The world is ruled by selfish interests, and it is nearly impossible to meet morally sound people in a society full of selfish interests.

  • Why Pure Joy Could Be a Problem

    (Philosocom Hedonism Directory) (Philosocom's Subcategory Directory on Dilemmas and Problems) (Background music) Synopsis by Mr. Emmanuel David The article discusses the potential pitfalls of pursuing joy through artificial means, such as the Neuro-Euphoria Stimulator (NES), which could provide instant, pure joy. It argues that addiction to joy can lead to significant issues, such as reducing humans to a state similar to lab rats, bypassing meaningful experiences. The NES could make personal development obsolete, diminish the value of relationships , and disrupt societal structures. The article critiques hedonism, suggesting that meaningful happiness involves morality, responsibility, and contributing to society. T he author advocates for a balance between seeking joy and engaging in meaningful experiences, emphasizing the importance of love , family, and social interactions. The Joy Shortcut: A Blissful Trap? Joy is an integral part of our lives. We love the feeling of joy; it is blissful and makes us feel good. This rush of happiness and good feeling makes us seek it sometimes too much, as if we chase it endlessly. It's an emotion capable of being an un-restricted rush, compared to falling head over heels over someone, and giving it to them, too!   Some of us, however, chase joy to the point of addiction. That's when we are exposed to the most honest part of being a human. Without our ability to make discretion, we can unfortunately become like rats pressing on a button of joy for the mere point of joy, ad-infinitum. Joy is addicting for a reason, after all, for it is contagious the same as it's gratifying. That is regardless of whether or not joy stems from morality, as it should for morality to be applied more frequently. But what if technology offered a shortcut to joy? What if we didn't need to work for joy? Imagine a device, like a helmet you put on your head, and isolates your experience from reality. Let's call it the Neuro-Euphoria Stimulator, or the (NES). It's even better than the original NES! It bypasses everything you usually need to do to get it. Instead, it directly stimulates pure joy with, well, a push of a button... This hypothetical NES presents a fascinating paradox. While it eliminates the need for external sources of happiness, it could also dismantle the very foundation of a meaningful life, as it becomes the one true source of happiness to be a good simp for. Here's why: The Erosion of Experience:  The (hypothetical) NES bypasses the journey, the struggle, to growth. All the elements that make joy truly earned and deeply satisfying are gone. We become accustomed to instant gratification, rendering the need to work on ourselves, as useless as working as an ornamental hermit. Love and Connection on Hold:  Why invest in complex relationships when the (superior) NES offers a dopamine rush on demand? The device could erode the need for love, friendship, and family , isolating us in a self-contained world of fleeting pleasure. We wouldn't love or appreciate others as much as, you know, pressing buttons like lab rats. Apathy and Stagnation:  Contribution to society often requires overcoming challenges. The NES (totally not a nefarious scheme to deter the populace from critical thinking) , eliminates discomfort. It could stifle motivation and leave us content with mediocrity. This dilemma isn't new.   Consider video games. While they offer entertainment, the allure of instant gratification they provide might make us question the effort required for real-world achievements and the cultivation of genuine human connections. The ( Ulterior-motive devised) NES becomes a metaphor for how hedonism can be a liability more than an asset at times . The philosophy prioritizing pleasure above all else. It's kind of ruthless against, you know, those who suffer and could use our help. While happiness is important, it's a fleeting high if not built upon deeper meaning and purpose . What do I mean by "deeper"? I mean when it has several benefits beyond the service of its own mindless accumulation. Roads to Nowhere These machines could be either humanity's crowning achievement or its ultimate downfall. Philosophically they are capable of disproving the idea that happiness/joy are entirely subjective , for the key to true happiness lies not in learning from cats but from lab rats. Imagine returning home from a tedious workday , only to bypass human connection and simply press a button for guaranteed joy. This machine could dismantle the very pillars of society , for society is based and preserved on working towards success and on overcoming ourselves. With such easy way to get pleased, many people who are prone to be lazy, won't bother showing up on work as much, and even when they get there they would easily be distracted by the thoughts and genuine passion to get their next fix. Should the device be self-sustainable in terms of energy, you'll find people on the streets and slums getting endless fixes and escaping from reality. After all who cares for the importance of work and other commitments when you can get that sweet, sweet joy, permanently? Success often matters more than joy or happiness because the accomplishment of our goals yield a greater benefit than our personal drive for pleasure. Hence the shortcomings of hedonism. While seeking pleasure is natural, it becomes a shaky foundation for a life of purpose. Morality, responsibility, and contribution to society all take a backseat when instant gratification reigns supreme. Hedonism fails to answer questions like: Why volunteer for a cause that brings no immediate pleasure? Why invest the time and energy in love, which can be messy and complex, when a button offers a dopamine rush? These machines, much like idle video games, which require very little effort towards victory. If anything, the true value of joy itself, but in its journey towards it. Then, the joy is used as a reward of the journey that was made. Joy, then, becomes ideal when it is secondary, AKA, when it creates this functional habit of making worthwhile effort towards greater accomplishment. A "Joy Machine" offer a hollow substitute. An escape made to replace the richness of a life well-lived. Why, then, not strive for a balance? Why not cherish both the struggles and the reward that both make all the overall endeavour fulfilling? When Trapped in the Mechanism of Love Consider procreation. Why endure the challenges of raising children when a few button presses offer instant gratification? Pure Joy render essential aspects of human existence – love, family, social interaction – obsolete more than your average search engine. They remove the struggle, the growth, the very elements that make joy earned and meaningful, and relationship fruitful, deep and honest. Of course that includes romantic relationships, and in love, like with the love of wisdom, joy is not everything. I once questioned a former friend, "Why the obsession with love? Isn't it simply for the good feelings?" Her hesitant "maybe" resonated deeply. However, love, in its purest form, transcends mere pleasure, as it involves sacrifice, vulnerability, and a commitment that goes beyond fleeting highs and honeymoon gateways. Now tell me, rhetorically, can a machine replicate that complexity? A machine providing pure joy might promise instant gratification, but it's a seductive trap, a succubus if you will. For it could weaken our resolve, turning us into pleasure-seeking automatons. By doing so, we risk sacrificing the very essence of what makes life meaningful for countless people: love, family, and caring for other human beings. How can we accept the possibility of love if we refuse to accept suffering? How can we conquer hearts if we cannot conquer ourselves first, and use the possibility of being loved as a good reason to work on ourselves , rather than staying as incels? The allure of a shortcut to happiness is strong, but don't be fooled. You'll find yourself alone without the ability to embrace suffering, which is a necessity in part of accepting reality . Embrace the messiness, the struggles, and the highest and the lowest of human connection. Resist the fears that entail with the thoughts of mere unease. They would only get in your way of your goals. Write, love, create, connect – not because it guarantees happiness, but because it's in the journey itself that we discover what we're truly capable of, and thus work towards the life we truly want to love. Mere "fixes" of pure joy would make you end up like a drug addict who's in a deep need for rehabilitation. Ms. Hali Bash-March's Feedback I remember hearing a professor's talk about the joy we get from expecting something happy to happen, like a vacation. It said that the brain releases the hormones of happiness when we think about the happy event, as we imagine it over and over in our brain. When our vacation actually arrives, we feel happy but sometimes less then how we imagined it in our brain. So, the idea that expecting something and working toward it is better than just getting the end result is very much true.

  • A Rubinshteinic Examination of the Holy Trinity of Drinks

    A Rubinshteinic Examination of the Holy Trinity of Drinks “Where do you get inspiration for your books? I tell myself I can't have another cup of coffee till I thought of an idea.” -- Douglas Adams "Water is the softest thing, yet it can penetrate mountains and earth. This shows clearly the principle of softness overcoming hardness." -- Lao Tzu "If you have enough alcohol, you should not fear the result of a thousand battles" -- Sun Tzu (Coffee Directory) (Background music) Water, Coffee, and Beer in Human History Throughout the influence of human history , certain beverages have played pivotal roles in our survival, productivity, and social engineering events. While individual preferences of drinks may vary, water, coffee, and beer stand out as exceptionally significant. Let's explore their impact from a more-philosophical standpoint... 1. Water: The Essence of Life It is a fundamental necessity for all biological mechanisms. Human bodies are composed largely of water, and its consumption is crucial for countless physiological processes. In astronomy, the existence of water in other planets can indicate the existence of alien life-forms. Access to clean water is a cornerstone of human health and societal stability. The utter lack of water can lead to devastating consequences, underscoring its irreplaceable role. While other liquids can contribute to hydration, water's purity and inherent benefits make it the optimal, basic and natural choice. 2. Coffee: The Catalyst for Productivity Coffee, with its caffeine content, has become a widely consumed stimulant that enhances alertness and focus. Historically, it has fueled intellectual pursuits , industrial development, and everyday productivity. The impact of coffee on global economies and social structures is undeniable. One might claim coffee is part of a more-universalized culture. Coffee has been linked to increased cognitive functions, and improved physical performance. Coffee can be a very easy way to get to know people from a more-social standpoint. 3. Beer: The Social Lubricant and Cultural Staple Beer has played a significant role in social gatherings, celebrations, and cultural traditions. Moderate alcohol consumption can help you reduce stress. Drinking beer is can be seen as a form of escapism and coping mechanism with difficult issues one is facing. Although women may also drink beer, it is a drink often associated with masculinity. Considerations While these beverages hold significant importance, responsible consumption is crucial. Excessiveness is not good in anything. Cultural and religious perspectives on alcohol consumption vary widely, and respecting these differences is essential for the understanding of humans from around the world. It is important to note that, while these beverages are important, they are not the only important beverages. Tea for instance, has also played an important role in human history. The availability of clean water, is still a major problem in many parts of the world, for instance, in Nigeria. Conclusions Water, coffee, and beer have indelibly shaped human societies as well as individuals. Their roles extend beyond mere sustenance, encompassing cultural, economic, and social aspects of human activity. Understanding their significance provides valuable insights into our past, present, and future.

  • Universality of Truth (Poem)

    (Inspired by reading Mr. Aizaz Baqir's book " Soulless Goddess "). There were a few scientists in a gathering, The first one invented the keyboard, The second uses it to write magnificent poems, The third spreads messages of hatred online. What, therefore, can you say about this device? Three intellectuals sit in a coffee shop. The first brings up the subject of the Roman Empire. The second claims: "It was the greatest Empire on earth!" The third is triggered, "It was the Nazi Germany of the ancient past; Caused genocides, killed people for entertainment, and enslaved countless subjects". What is, therefore, to objectively be said about that ancient country? Finally, Three geeks discuss about video games. The first brings up Suikoden IV, An obscure game that has been received negatively. The second said "This game was so bad!" And the third said... "It was bad, but I enjoyed it a lot". Who's to say "I am right, you are wrong", When to reality, We all belong? Not only us, but anything possibly real, Regardless of level? Facts are superior? Opinions, inferior? The truth does not work, According to a supremacist racial hierarchy. It contains anyone and anything, Like the Earth, its humans, And the universe -- all the asteroids, planets and galaxies. 6 is both 6 and 9, And 9 is both 9 and 6. Anything is small at the right distance, And huge at the right closure. A picture can exist -- fact, But can also be photoshopped, And still exist. A man can be feminine, And not be seen as a "Real Man", And still be, An existent man, (As if there is a difference). Vegetarians are doing good for the environment, But Hitler was also one, Did he do good for the world? A smart man can sometimes make stupid mistakes, And even a stupid man can come with bright insights. The mentally healthy can too get into a meltdown, And the mentally ill doesn't always need a psychologist. Can you say otherwise? The truth welcomes all correct things, Into its guest house, With no discrimination. The only requirement -- Be Correct! To those who wish to "hit" me, Even just because of my content -- Hit Laozi Hit Sun Tzu, Hit the Bible, Hit the Quran, Hit Epictetus, Hit Socrates, Hit Osho -- My thought process Is a source too; Digging further into contemplation, Is research of the conscious mind, And its vast potential. Logical reasoning, once sound enough, It's his own source, As long as the logician is proficient enough.

  • The Issues of Sex (Clean Article)

    Article Summary by Mr. Chris Kingsley and Co. This article provides a comprehensive exploration of sexuality, focusing on biological, social, and psychological aspects that shape human behavior and societal norms. Mr. Tomasio acknowledges the complexity of human sexuality , emphasizing that it is not a one-size-fits-all phenomenon. This recognition promotes a more inclusive and nuanced discussion. The article's strengths include its comprehensive approach, acknowledging the diversity in sexual orientation, preferences, and behaviors, and its personal reflections, such as the renunciation of claims of asexuality and the connection to sexual transmutation. It encourages critical thinking by questioning widely held beliefs and presenting alternative viewpoints, fostering an open-minded and analytical approach to the subject matter. In summary, this article presents a thoughtful and wide-ranging discussion of the issues surrounding human sexuality, commendable for its inclusivity, critical approach, and personal reflections. (Background music) **************************** Introduction: The Drive to Reproduce As much as we are social beings , we are also sexual beings. Even those who are more solitary than social are not necessarily asexual. This is because it is more imperative for biological beings to have children than it is to communicate with others. It is a biological imperative to reproduce, but not communicate. While communication is important, it is not essential for survival as procreation is. Especially social communication . Having children, on the other hand, is essential for the survival of the species. Those who do not reproduce enough, or at all, risk putting their lineage at jeopardy. Some people believe that having children is mandated by the heavens or that it is an essential part of adulthood. Regarding the "mandated by the heavens" belief, it is evident. Others may feel pressure from their parents or other family members to have children. That is even though they decide to have children is a personal one. When it comes to gender, women are often more stressed about having children than men. This is because women are the ones who carry and give birth to children. Some may even, you know, secure themselves a man just to get pregnant. Some people believe that women's reproductive systems are only meant to be used for reproduction. They argue that women should not have the choice to have an abortion or to use birth control . I disagree with this view. I believe that women have the right to choose what happens to their own bodies. Their wombs are their property, and they should be able to do with them as they please. Part I: Controversies There is something very conflicting about sex when it comes to humanity. Due to the dominance of the three Abrahamic religions, homosexuality is seen as something morally wrong in the eyes of many. Are LGBTQ people not legitimate in their endeavor to live and to be accepted like anyone else? Whatever your thoughts on the matter may be, it is very logical to assume that we cannot learn how to be attracted to something we are not attracted to in the first place. This could entail that sexuality is innate, rather than learned, even if it develops later in life. Here are some additional thoughts on the matter: There is no scientific evidence to support the claim that homosexuality is a choice. In fact, studies have shown that there is a biological basis for homosexuality. For example, one study found that gay people have different brain structures than the same gender. LGBTQ people are just as capable of love, commitment, and happiness as anyone else. They deserve to be treated with respect like any other human being. It is important to note that not all members of any group are the same. I devised a theory that can suggest this as true. There are good and bad people in every social category, and the LGBTQ community is no exception. It is unfair to judge an entire category of people based on the actions of a few. As it is unfair to judge said category with traits it does not necessarily have in its entirety, as that will be a generalization fallacy . If I were to show you a car and force you to be sexually attracted to it, chances are you would not be successful. There are people who are attracted to cars and other machinery, known as mechanophilia . However, according to the reasoning I found, it isn't necessarily a choice one can change like any other preference. Unique Traits Or Disorders/Illnesses? Whether a disorder or not is an issue that can be compared to autism . Some autists may claim that being on the spectrum isn't a disorder but simply a neurological diversity . That is the reasoning I'm talking about, applicable to unorthodox sexual orientations. Due to lack of normalcy in this field I wouldn't mind being proven wrong. It's part of the "job". This is the whole idea behind LGBTQ people: Unless one is asexual , we are all attracted to something or someone, and it is not necessarily a conscious choice . Even if the source of our attraction cannot collaborate with us in the process of actual reproduction, the sexual attraction cannot be denied. It may be reduced due to a variety of reasons , but I failed to find sources that claim it can be lost permanently. You can try to repress it, but it is still a part of who you are. As such you can just become asexual. Naturally Animalistic or Deeply Human? The whole thing with same-sex attraction is ironic because it is not "natural," AKA, according to the biological imperative, to be attracted to someone who cannot bring offspring into the world. And yet, it exists. Does it make it a disorder or a disease? I argue that not, just like the desire of not having children is not a disorder or a disease. We either way do not have to have children if we do not want to. The choice itself, embedded uniquely in humans for psychological needs , is not a dysfunction when it is a natural feature of who we are. Furthermore, r*** is not morally justified, just because procreation is imperative for the survival of our species. In addition, some people are too unfit to have children, and you know that, I believe. They can be very poor and abusive parents and traumatize their children. Hence the idea of parenting licenses. How Necessary Is It, Really? As such, the biological imperative does not compel every single human to procreate. For that matter, people who cannot procreate due to other reasons, such as permanent injuries in the reproductive system, can still find other reasons to live. After all, aside from their contributions to society, there are other biological imperatives in play, such as group forming . Would an excellent leader of an organization that does good for the world, be deemed irrelevant just because he or she might not have biological successors? By the way, the gaining, holding and protection of territory is also a biological imperative as organisms need a physical space to exist in. It is unreasonable to say that soldiers who died to protect their country failed to achieve their purpose, when in reality they sacrificed their lives for us. Procreation isn't sufficient because we never exist in a vacuum, and as such there are other factors of existence to consider. Surprisingly enough there is a spectrum of asexuality . I'll not dive too much into it right now. Even though most of us have the means of reproduction, some of us have no inherent desire to have sex with anyone, male or female. Some of us are straight-out anti-sexual , and they may deem sexual activity as disgusting. You can at least learn from the example of this article, that not everything in existence has to have an objective purpose. That includes organs, as women, for example, do not have to use their wombs if they don't want children. How come? Potential is not necessity. Part II: Sex As an Obsession Anyways, the point still stands -- many if not most of us are sexual beings even if we will never have children. It is very imperative as it is psychological and also a social activity . Something in the mere act can make one very passionate, to the risk of addiction , to the point it will become their central aim in life. There is something very pleasing in it as there is traumatic. It may play a role in our ego, as some of us may disregard it from our egos... Like when I wrote my thoughts about incels. All because of a single, simple act which this site is too respectful to mention here explicitly. It's so simple, and yet a concept so chewed by humanity, it will be resumed being so indefinitely . Erotica, romance (usually) and so on -- all are very popular genres/industries that will probably keep on giving until the end of the human race, all thanks to said action. It is probably humanity's one of the most popular obsessions. Personal Reflections As an asocial man, I don't know if I'll understand what is so appealing about sexual relations, to the point of obsession. Like the example with the attraction to machinery, I can't force myself to be obsessive about something that is in a lower priority. I know I can bring children to the world. However, even if I wanted to do so, there is this obstacle that is called my existence ("Verdict of Being") . And everything in my life revolves around my life's work. Still, I understand I am intuitively transmuting my energies for Philosocom. That's how I still managed to work on this article empire during the Reaping Fatigue Era. Conclusions The reproductive organs go further than just mere reproduction. Some may even consider them tools for power and control. We aren't mere robots who just have happened to be able to multiply. It's both a blessing as it is a curse. It can bring life as it can even bring death . It can satisfy our wants and needs and even cause trauma quite "naturally". What we can conclude from all of this is, sexuality is a part of who we are, even if we lack it. Since we are different people with different affinities, that also applies to sex regardless of what kind of people you are attracted to, if at all . Human beings are very diverse beings . Furthermore, expressions innate diversity is yet to be fully agreed upon as such. Or even as completely legitimate ( in the case of eccentricities, for example ). Unlike many other traits that can be changed through exercise and discipline , sexuality is bound to stay with us, whether we have yet to discover what it is or if we're well aware of it. Some people, you could say, are just not attracted to the "right" people for reproductive reasons. Will it doom humankind? Perhaps not, as there are enough straight people to sustain the human race. In the U.S, their number isn't significant enough to risk population growth. But if it's true that sexuality is innate and unchangeable -- being straight is simply one way of having a sexual tendency. It's the most practical, for sure, but far from being the only one. It is desired by many that one shall be straight, but what sorcery can completely eradicate one's heart , and the other's heart below the belt? Final conclusion -- sexuality doesn't have to be directed at reproduction in order for one to practice it. That is true as having sex is fun and even healthy , as it is for the average non-straight man or woman. Perhaps animals will be capable of reproducing many successors, but, perhaps, the sexual complexity of many humans is far more complicated than that of an animal in the correspondent season. Bonus Insight -- Sex Drive and Love as Spontaneous It is the same in sex as it is the same in love -- you can't force yourself to love someone you don't, even if you both will be going to live together for a long time. Was every marriage meant to be fated? Judging by the high divorce rates , it's very unlikely. If you're going to be married to a murderer, are you meant to be murdered, especially if you know they're a killer? There are no soul mates . There is love, attraction, partner maintenance , and, for many, sex. Extra source: https://theconversation.com/stop-calling-it-a-choice-biological-factors-drive-homosexuality-122764

  • Philosophizing On Capitalism -- Why We Should Help Others

    Article Synopsis by Mr. C. Kinsgley and Co. The article "Philosophizing On Capitalism – Why We Should Help Others" critiques capitalism, contrasting its core principles with the values of altruism and social welfare. It delves into the ideological divide between the wealthy and the working class and the consequences of this disparity. Mr. Tomasio engages with complex ideas, such as the inherent tensions between capitalism, altruism, and social welfare. The article acknowledges the charitable contributions of the wealthy, offering a balanced approach that avoids overly simplistic or one-sided views. The moral duty to help others , especially the disadvantaged, is compelling, emphasizing the need for empathy, reduced loneliness , and prevention of conflict. The personal touch, sharing the philosopher's own experience living on disability benefits and committing to writing, adds depth and sincerity to the argument. The philosopher encourages social unification by promoting collaboration, mutual support, and moral egoism , linking individual and collective well-being in a pragmatic way. In conclusion, the article effectively raises important questions about capitalism, altruism, and social welfare, offering a balanced and reflective critique. Why is it so hard for people to simply ask for help? -- Mr. Nathan Lasher (Directory on Rectification and Help) (Background music) The Two Sides of the Coin: Capitalism vs. Social Welfare One of the core problems with capitalism is that it leads to a great divide between two main types of people: Those who know how to make great sums of money, and those who take small bites of that money by working their lives until retirement ( assuming they will even have one, given that not everyone can even afford it ). The same ideology that promotes individual freedom and free markets can also devolve into an oligarchy , a society ruled by a rich minority. This is just like how democracy can turn into a tyranny of the majority. Some may claim that the United States, for instance, is transforming from a democracy into an oligarchy, as the richer are able to get away with their crimes more than others, and thus compromise justice in the name of more profit. Communism, even though it was a failure in execution that led to the foundation of oppressive dictatorships , was a philosophy that at least gave us a reason to care about others, the common good. It promoted unity, patriotism, caring for your fellow men and women, and altruism —values that are often overlooked by more capitalistic societies. A Critique of Capitalism and the Benefits of Altruism Therefore, even though capitalism brings much liberty to the economy, it fails to answer the following question: why should we care for someone when they do not serve us in any way? Why should we help others when our efforts can be invested elsewhere, such as in making even more money? If we wish to promote both our individual liberties and the importance of altruism to people who are unable to reach the same achievements as we did, (such as making lots of money or getting a steady job with a reasonable pay), we should at least consider promoting the social unification behind socialist and/or communist philosophies. That is along with the importance of providing welfare to those in need. For the benefits of social unification are many, not only to the economy but also to our health. Social unification between people allows the nurturing of more empathy, of reducing loneliness , and the prevention of unnecessary conflict, which could further deteriorate into coercion , into trauma , and into war. All of the three we are capable of preventing, and that is done by understanding the importance of a healthy and beneficial social engineering. While I don't think capitalism is evil by itself, some people do, according to Mr. John Duran : At what point will mankind start actually learning and realize how insidiously evil capitalism is? When the children starve, or the helpless souls are living on sidewalks, when no one can be happy without the concept of everything only ever done for profit? At what tipping point will this evil be rightfully toppled for the good of all mankind? Sadly, not in our lifetime. It's the perfect tool for control of the masses, to make them believe that it's the only way, while watching others starve and die because they cannot afford to eat. Or freeze to death because they can't pay outrageous rents on land that was given freely to all species. Surely, something to think about. The Unfair Share: Capitalism and the Need for Social Safety Nets The immense wealth generated by capitalism can be a double-edged sword. While it fosters material prosperity, it often comes at the cost of neglecting those who struggle to participate effectively in the rat race, known for its compromises on both physical and mental health. The current system prioritizes profit maximization, leaving many, particularly the poor, the disabled, and the underprivileged, vulnerable to the unfairness of modernity. I am not trying to condemn wealthy individuals. Much of the donations to charity comes from America's wealthiest people , the Forbes 400 . However, the capitalist system itself rewards immense personal gain over broader societal well-being. This results in a situation where abundance exists alongside poverty, where only those who care for their own profit-making, and do it successfully, are more appreciated than those who struggle, regardless of whether or not they care for the overall well-being of society. Some may not even bother caring about societal well-being because there's no money to be made worrying about it. Many employees report that their bosses don't even care about their mental health, at least in the UK . Furthermore, caring about the wellbeing of others could in theory be even costlier, especially when it comes to one's employees. An example for that is something known as an EAP, or an employee assistance programme , which has its share of expenses. For many bosses, however, it's preferable for them to outright fire people with mental health issues and replace them with healthier individuals, than to actually make the extra cost of supporting them. Mental health is a professional taboo for a reason. Capitalist philosophy is about maximizing profit, not reducing them in favor of others. An asset is there to generate revenue . When an asset yields less revenue, its value decreases, compelling companies to replace it. Workers are assets as well . Treating people as mere assets is one of the reasons individuals are expendable , unfortunately. I guess that from this aspect much evil can indeed stem from capitalism, unfortunately -- when you have the power to care for others, but refuse to do so. The vast resources concentrated in the hands of a privileged few highlight the shortcomings of a purely market-driven approach. Global corporations and the ultra-wealthy possess more than they likely need, while others lack basic necessities. Using Wealth For The Greater Good The relentless pursuit of profit often overshadows altruism, perpetuating a cycle where the disadvantaged remain trapped, while the advantaged thrive on their prosperity. The current distribution of wealth creates a grim inequality: the "have-nots" with too little and the "haves" with an abundance they can't fully utilize. A hypothetical wealth redistribution, as presented in welfare programs, wouldn't necessarily impoverish the rich; it would elevate the poor. Imagine a society where everyone can afford basic needs, education, and debt relief. This wouldn't significantly impact the wealthy, but it would transform the lives of those struggling. Balancing Capitalism with Welfare Furthermore, we need to take into account that it is possible to contribute to society even outside of the orthodox ways of life. My personal experience as a writer, for example living on disability benefits offers a different perspective. I view my ability to become a deadbeat "klumnik" with great guilt, and thus refuse to be one. Instead, as a token of my gratitude, I relentlessly work on Philosocom and strive to be a master in the art of article writing. I think this is only fair. While the income itself from my welfare is below minimum wage, I manage to live and work through the adaptation of the ascetic lifestyle . This approach, while not universally applicable, demonstrates the power of minimizing expenses to achieve a degree of optimal contribution to society. However, it's crucial to acknowledge that frugality has its limits. Not everyone has a stable income, let alone one sufficient for a life they could make the optimal use of. Despite my self-described egoism ( refusing to hang out with others and remaining asocial ), a strong desire to help those in need persists within me. I am aware that helping others is the highest moral thing to do , and that to combat corruption one must strive for morality. We need to bridge this gap between personal pleasure and societal wellbeing, to better ensure the possibility of more people having a fair shot at a good life. Finding Purpose In Helping Others Volunteering at an office reinforced my belief in the power of collaboration. We all rely on external support to thrive. Mutual support is the way to go for the general increase of output and prosperity. It's why people collaborate in the first place: To do, or to better do, things one struggles or cannot do entirely alone. We form syndicates more than we might think we do. Here's the twist of a poorly-conducted moral egoism : as an egoist, neglecting to be helpful goes against my core values, as prioritizing on helping others is a pretty functional egotist drive. It might sound ironic, but I find personal satisfaction in service to others, and forming closer relationships with them does not only benefit them but me and Philosocom as well. Self-Importance As an Altruistic Tool This drive to be a good, accomplished, and helpful person fuels my desire to contribute. I do not waste energy in aimless interactions with people. A well-crafted plan for mutual benefit is how my time and energy is best spent. Thus, collaboration is preferable to discarding those who can greatly help one's cause. Taking into account their needs is beneficial for one's needs as well, and it is morally better than outright oppressing people for personal interest. Despite not being a social butterfly, I strive to be a moral being for functional reasons. Ethics is philosophy's most practical asset, and is a major reason as to why philosophy should not be discarded as irrelevant. Helping others aligns with my personal code of conduct – it's simply good business in the grand scheme of things. Understand where I'm coming from to improve your productivity as well, not just as an individual but as part of a greater organization. People should be free to forge their own moral paths, but let us not undermine the importance of looking both ways. Mr. Nathan Lasher's Feedback Aren’t all societies about capitalism to some extent? We determine the value of a nation by the flow of money within it. Every news report about war mentions economics to some extent. Aren’t all humans capitalistic by nature, one created by the world, where we associate success with money, as mentioned in Mr. Tomasio's Defining Success article ? Aren’t most people about making more money for themselves? Consider this: Money can be used for both good and evil. Whichever you decide to use money to express, good or evil, the fact still remains that it involves money. Just a matter of why you want it. Capitalism is not bad as at its core you have people who are driven to have a better life than they currently have.  I take the principles of capitalism and apply them to my life. To be better than yourself is a noble cause which I think deserves more credit. It’s when one becomes better at selfish notions that an issue arises. You can be capitalistic about anything. Good things would include bettering yourself mentally and physically. What if we all wanted to make the most out of either of those? Your goal towards both should be to be the best version of yourself possible. When you gain this mentality, work doesn’t mean the same thing anymore. You stop thinking of it as something you have to do and start to see it as something you get to. Have better reasons is one of the pillars of life’s journey. If you extract the principles of capitalism and apply meaning you will have an unstoppable force. Look at any good national charity, they are going good and understand the importance of money to continue to do so. These types of causes are examples of healthy capitalism: Being able to raise money for the right reasons is a vitally important skill set to have There are good and bad sides of both which everyone is capable of. That is all capitalism is. The desire to have more isn’t necessarily an evil notion. Churches are all about capitalism as making money is what allows them to do more good. There are important aspects of capitalism one must consider. Capitalism is a liberty not everyone gets to enjoy. Being in a free market economy means that one is able to go out and make money if they can figure out a way to do so.  Socialism in an economic sense leads to no innovation and requires private capital to finance actions, which is the whole point of life: actions. If everything was "socialized" nobody would have a desire to go out and do anything. If you're structured so all goods had to be sold at the same price there would be no greater desire to be more than you currently are. Less incentive to grow when your potential future already has a predetermined limit placed upon itself. Take this for instance. A normal family doctor makes x amount per patient they see. A more specialized doctor makes y per patient they see. If there were no capitalism due to preset prices then we would have less specialists due to salary per position already being predetermined.  Think about it from a capitalistic approach. A good business meets a need or want. What’s wrong with capitalism when it is a need being met? And there are already precautions against price gouging, so this allows our needs to get met at a competitive rate. There are safeguards in place to offset greed. Capitalism means competition , which means businesses must compete to differentiate themselves from each other. A good entrepreneur understands this. They find a need or want that people have and find a way which meets that particular demand. And what's wrong with turning your product into a luxury one? Nothing wrong with supplying this, fixing a problem, and making money at the same time.

  • Existence, Necessity and Potential -- The Bodybuilder Argument/Fallacy and How To Understand Potential

    (Philosocom's Subcategory Directory on Potential and Hope) Abstract The article of existence, necessity and potential, argues against the "Bodybuilder Argument," which suggests that because you have the potential to do something, you must do it. I use the example of bodybuilding to show that just because you can build muscle, doesn't mean you should. They argue that potential is a possibility, not a necessity. The article expands this concept beyond physical fitness to other areas of life, such as having children , getting a higher education, or getting married. These are all things people can choose to do, but there's no obligation to do any of them. I conclude by arguing that people should focus on their own desires and not be pressured by societal expectations . They should develop their courage and critical thinking skills to make their own choices about how to live their lives. This can provide a sense of liberation from societal constraints, by seeking alternative solutions which can actually solve our problems. (Background music) Introduction: Why Are You Not a Bodybuilder? Let me begin this article with a thought experiment: Are you a bodybuilder? If not, why not? Your physique possesses immense potential, waiting to be sculpted through merciless training. Ignoring this potential retains you to average strength, at best, and lowers it, at worst. See how is this a fallacy? This concept, which I call the Bodybuilder Argument , extends beyond the gym. It applies to anything with inherent potential, often mistakenly seen as a mandatory path. It also extends: Beyond the bedroom. (The Issues of Sex) Beyond the academics. (The Degree Fallacy) Beyond reading lengthy books. (On Reading and Writing In Philosophy) Let's dig into this further like an unexplored ruby deposit. Imagine being born with the capacity to create life. Does this then necessitate procreation? Just because you can build a bodybuilder's physique doesn't mean you must. Likewise, having a reproductive organ does not mean you must use it to reproduce. Understanding The Argument's Fallacy The Bodybuilder Argument confuses opportunity as destiny. While potential exists, it's not a higher calling by its own. You are either forced or influenced to see it as such, or you genuinely see it as such by your own free[r] will . The idea of potential-as-destiny is that of perception. And perception is a choice. The state of being in a metaphorical matrix, is a product of choice. Expanding the potential of our intelligence can better allow us to understand of the unconscious choices we make. You know, they can do you harm. The Bodybuilder Argument a product of "The Way Things Are" Fallacy. You cannot effectively accept other ways of life if you undoubtedly think your ways are the best. Observe this flawed reality. Do you think looking fit like Johnny Bravo will get you true love? Muscles and other attractive physical features, are not always enough, and for good reason. To quote Swani Jena of Medium: If you are born a human being, whether man or woman, pretty or ugly — and you don’t have a purpose in life, you are as good as doomed. No one needs a crown, evening gown and sash to have a purpose in life. What difference is there, in things such as reproduction, higher education, getting a driver's license, marrying, enlisting in the military , and so on? You can do these things, but even if you should do them, there is, ultimately, no existential motive or being that forces you to do them. The only force is a perceived one. A paper tiger is, as such, most frightening when it creates the idea that you should be intimidated. But should we be really intimidated from the world's largest cannon, when the Schwerer Gustav Gun isn't a practical weapon? Why We Should Also Develop Virtue Conversely, what quality is a body-building boyfriend that would abandon you the moment he finds someone other than you he suddenly likes? This isn't a shallow matter. It's in fact quite ethical... It concerns relationship ethics, specifically. Reality is often far more complex than mere orthodoxy, and requires a unity/synergy of several values. In the case of "If I'll to be a bodybuilder, I'll be more attractive", let us quote Confucius: The way of the superior person is threefold; virtuous, they are free from anxieties; wise, they are free from perplexities; and bold they are free from fear Let us not, in any way, confuse potential and recommendations, using our many convincing biases. The fact they tell us to act in a certain way, does not make it a Kantian-like Categorical Imperative , correct?. Orders, including one's from our intuition's authority fallacy ... Without the well-critical mind, tell us we must or mustn't do things without our rationality's ability to resist. How can the herd mentality be surpassed if there is not a strong-enough cognitive force to oppose it? How Conformity Breeds Stagnation Why do we succumb to conformity at all times? We often fall into conformity because we fear what others will think of us. Metaphorically, we might want to be bodybuilders because our peers are also ones. But we cannot be virtuous, and therefore more attractive, if we choose to remain cowards . Virtue can be seen as a dimension of love, designated to further the welfare of another. But while conformity may highlight one methodology, it might compel you from seeing the bigger picture. As such, being "a bodybuilder" is insufficient, when reality calls for the application of several methodologies, to solve the same concern. Thus, physical attraction alone could use attraction of other kinds, as well. Must we solely use training to develop our muscles, due to our influence by popular culture's idealized body standard? Should we be bodybuilders so we won't feel left behind, and feel like outsiders? Solving the Bodybuilder Argument: The Value of Courage Observe how such reasons, to develop oneself, are based on fear. You might improve your body. But can you really hone it until you'll finally feel content? How can you feel content if you prioritize perfectionism over contentment? Ironically, perfectionism can draw you further into depression. And you cannot love yourself, if your self-image causes you great sadness. Furthermore, the opposite of love is not hatred, but fear. To quote Liam Blume: The rejection of a set of features that we do not accept in ourselves causes many problems. When we do not accept ourselves out of fear, we do not love ourselves. Fear is the opposite of love. If we want to be loved more, why hide our insecurity behind a temple of muscle? Why not consider working on your courage, instead? For courage is not the absence of fear. It's rather the ability to act despite it. You can't love effectively if you refuse to be courageous. And you can't love effectively, if you choose criticism over appreciation. It is something that can in fact destroy relationships . A person you love is mentally distressed. What use would your V-shaped body be if your heart isn't strong enough to embrace him/her, and assist them in their recovery? Can you really help a distressed person by focusing on criticism, more so than believing in them? To believe in a person and display it directly, after all, you must develop the muscle that is your heart. You might claim she would need a certified psychologist . However, we require courage to see the truth, and realize we can elevate more things than mere weights. We can also lift spirits of those who are dear to us. We should understand how strong we can really be, for raw muscle may lift weights, but cannot lift a depressed heart from the pit of despair . You cannot flex your way to help others. What you can do, is to focus less on your ego, and direct your attention at the problem at hand. It is the mature thing to do. Whether I be rejected as insane for my unconventional methodologies, I care not. To quote Mr. John Duran: The closer you get to understanding reality, the more insane you are considered. Conclusions Look around you but look deeply, too. There is more to life than society, religion, funds, and transactional benefits. The concern of "What will others think about me?" might not deserve such importance, when you have the power within you to act despite it. There is, first and foremost, yourself and your true desires . Reinforcing them with logic can yield greater results than exclusively reinforcing your body with muscle growth. The only "necessary" thing in the world is survival. Once we fail at it, we cease to exist, and then, we cannot do anything, because, we'll be dead! Therefore, survival is the basis of all potential. In the end, the fear of many is the fear of being a "klumnik", a being that hasn't done anything significant to be respected by their society. And yet, you can realize your freedom, not only from the law , but from the norms as well. You can realize, then, that contribution and problem-solving can be done without trophies and without a bias of prestige. In other words, it is pointless to focus on methodologies that do not, yield, or even hinder, the results you're looking for. Why would society force upon you its so-called "unwritten laws" and "unwritten ideals", when you have both the logic, the discipline and the faith in your actions, to create the success you want to have? For their refusal to deeply understand your struggles, your ambitions and your pains, some people deserve to be discarded.

  • The Autistic "Rune of Punishment" -- How To Overcome Punishment Using Redemption

    (2025 Note: Using philosophy and neuroplasticity I have recovered from my own autistic symptoms. It's called autism recovery. My mind is forever hidden from you). (Autism Subcategory Directory) (Background music) Introduction To those who have still not understood: if you find my communication to be bizarre, dramatic, or even condescending, it is not because I intend to sound like that, but because I am autistic. If it weren't for communication therapists, I might as well have remained without the ability of speech for the rest of my life. I am tired of being condemned for things I am not at fault for. Imagine having to speak and even think in some way people find odd, without any possibility of speaking and thinking in another fashion. A society without enough inclusivity is one that unnecessarily discriminates and shuns people who could be useful for its development, and hinder it from stagnation in various fields. Refusing to include the useful, which humans are greatly capable of being , would only discard further productivity when you prioritize values such as conformity. However, conformity is not something everyone are capable of achieving as much as others, making me ponder about its importance beyond cultivating a herd mentality and oppressing the populace. However, some people can't just bend so easily to societal norms, when their faults can easily be criticized. And when you have a heightened sense of justice, common among the autistic , following the authority of those who refuse to understand you or contain your distress, can often feel like it cannot go unpunished. For this, I like to coin the term, The Curse of Suikoden IV , or, The Autistic Rune of Punishment. How a Video Game Taught Me to Communicate You see, as a child, I rarely communicated with people,  and have remained aloof by choice . All I craved was to get back from school and play Suikoden IV, the first time in my life I was exposed to actual depth in a world I hardly understood. To many, it was a bad/mediocre game for various reasons . However, that specific game has taught me not only to appreciate depth of lore , but to also communicate. In fact, the game compelled me to learn the English language by myself, prompting me to become a better learner and writer. It was a roleplaying game about political conflict between nations,  but for me, it served as the basic ground for complex communication and interpersonal understanding. In solitude I spent much time analyzing the different characters, as shallow as some of them may be. From the hero and his destructive illness to the solitary and noble anti-villain. The therapist taught me basic words and sentences, this game taught me the rest, even though it was in a language I needed translation for. But I translated each word independently of others so I would be able to know what's going on in the game. When you are determined and disciplined enough you can do much even by yourself. Soon enough, thanks to Suikoden IV, I learned English almost proficiently, with the teachings of school becoming only secondary in their role, as I sometimes found myself teaching words my teachers didn't know. In first grade, I only knew a few words, and by sixth grade, I spoke and understood fluent English. In another game, that was multiplayer, I even set up a guild of over 50 players at its peak. But I digress. A Curse and a Metaphor The game had a feature that I'll use to capture my experience: the Rune of Punishment. This curse is inflicted on the Hero by mere circumstance... or destiny? It is a deadly weapon. To quote Suikosource: ...A True Rune that represents atonement and forgiveness and is always borne on the left hand of its host; this rune is a parasite that feeds off its host with fatal consequences: the rune has tremendous offensive capabilities; however, using them drains the bearer's life force, eventually to the extent that he or she turns to ash and their memories are locked away in the Rune; the Rune then transfers to the nearest available host. Whilst it is still believed that the Rune of Punishment will grant standard True Rune abilities such as agelessness; there is no record of any of its previous bearers surviving long enough for this to be an issue. Trigger its power, regardless of intention, and you will be punished. Even if you use it for good, it will always demand something in return. It's a double-edged sword that makes you contemplate if using it is even worth considering.  It consumes your health until death, and only then can it be transferred to another unfortunate soul – anyone who gets too close to the bearer. It's a permanent affliction, a disease with the power to devastate, but at a terrible cost. For myself, I see the Rune of Punishment as a powerful analogy for two things: my unique way of communicating, and seeing and how my communication, even if used for good, could blow up in my face. Being punished by others is often unjust to me. But you can't realistically expect them to be good critical thinkers, judging right from wrong, "humans" from "Jennets" , accurately choosing to reward instead of punishing. The Burden of Misunderstood Intentions Whenever I spoke to those who did not see my intentions, they would punish me with their words, scarring my mind due to their own misunderstanding. Should I sacrifice my mentality for the sake of pleasing others,  it will deteriorate even further, as they seek to have fun , and not to learn nor improve their understanding of humanity's diverse spectrum of personalities. At least by these terms exclusively, I am "cursed". Cursed by a society who actively seeks to feel intimidated and finding a reason to be insulted and feel attacked over my loyalty to honesty. And as long as they are pleased, many would care less about how I really feel and what I think. I was taught at high school how to speak more commonly, and to keep my thoughts to myself whenever they cause discomfort to others. Whether I felt miserable and depressed, mattered far less in comparison to the wellbeing of my class. That is despite reality's theory of unity, connecting us all based on cause and effect. Causes are to be dealt with, or they'll poison you and others from the shadows. Keeping them to ourselves will not terminate them. In the Name of Redemption Society is ill and part of my solitude is to retain my health regardless of its self-destructive behaviors. To quote Indian philosopher Jiddu Krishnamurti: “It is no measure of health to be well adjusted to a profoundly sick society.” It is no wonder there is so much suffering in this world. But I have no desire to partake in humanity's downward spiral to further illness. For this Punishment Rune also has a forgiveness phase, allowing you to use it for good without having to sacrifice yourself. For as is irrational as it may sound, you should forgive those who have wronged you. For that can liberate you from much unneeded suffering. Stop acting like a parasite to your body and mind. Use your intellect and heart to build a better world using your behavior. Show others light, and they might light you back from the darkness of despair. Human behavior can be contiguous. Don't strive to be just, but strive to be wise. Don't expect others to even want to understand your point of view, while in reality they are busy defending their own point of view. You can't fire your way in your plans to turn a desert into a vast, sparkling ocean. No. The desert is already depraved of water. Fill that desert with much needed water. There is no need to overexert yourself when solutions can be made simple. In order to reduce punishment, you must reduce punishing yourself. Work less on arguing why you're right and they are wrong. Many of them are too sensitive to accept being proven wrong. You can't only logic your way out of conflicts with beings not logical by default. Negative. Each behavior requires an appropriate response. With your words, nurture the behavior you want in this world. Those who refuse working towards World Rectification , would only suffer due to their own shortcomings. Avoid feeding their shortcomings, as that would only strengthen the punishment you will receive by society. In reality, you might be wise enough to understand it should be decreased, and not increased. For their suffering could add to your own. Show compassion, instead. Try to understand and contain others if you wish to be contained yourself. You cannot live in a more peaceful reality if you choose to mindlessly feed on the endless cycle harm and punishment. Do not enable an Eternal Ordeal. Try to avoid being a Double-Edged Sword. And to not harm yourself to the Voice of Death. Open your heart to Everlasting Mercy. Unless you have no choice....

  • The Rubinshteinic Frame Condition Theory -- Why Innovation Has a Universal Function

    (Philosocom's Subcategory on Aliens and Outer Space) Alex Mos's Synopsis: No matter how much we learn, there will always be more to discover. Our planet Earth still holds mysteries, and the universe inspires exploration of the unknown. Human advancement through technology and innovation is only possible by proving the traditional paradigms wrong and indefinitely breaking out the rigid "frames" of knowledge. The Frame Condition Theory opens the door to countless possibilities, allowing a never-ending quest in the name of the truth. Point of Specific Reference: Frame An enclosing border . A shell . A cage. (Background music) *************************** The smart conceive of unconventional ideas. The bold are adept at daring acts. Combine them and you see the true advancers of the human world -- Mr. John Duran Contemplating Infinity's Edge One of the very few philosophical contemplations I had as a kid was this: If we are to reach the end of the universe, what will we find? Will we find an endless void, another universe -- or a colossal "frame" of sorts, that prevents us from moving forward in our exploration? This childhood curiosity has blossomed into a profound realization: Our knowledge is a mere drop in the vast cosmic ocean of reality. No matter how much we learn, there will always be an indefinite amount of data, left to be discovered, analyzed, recorded and distributed. The very depths of our own planet's oceans hold mysteries yet unseen. Obscure and eerie sea creatures lurk in the darkness , their existence reminds us that the vast diversity of life on our own planet is still left not absolutely known, despite thousands of years of research in biology. While becoming a master /specialist in a field is possible, becoming an absolute master on every single facet of that field, might as well require us to tend to that field for an entire lifetime. With no relent, and with no remorse towards ourselves. Therefore, even people who are considered the intellectual elite in one or more fields, must resume their studies nonetheless. They mustn't be tempted by rewards , when rewards ruin their lust for learning. And beyond our planet, whose mysteries still remain undiscovered, the question of extra-terrestrial life continues to bother us. And for good reason, of course. Could there be other civilizations gazing at the same stars, pondering the same questions about existence, like some of us do? And what of the even vaster concepts – the possibility of an afterlife , or a spiritual dimension , existent, but hidden from the visible aspect of reality? The beauty lies in the unknown. If there's no "frame" to limit our exploration, if the universe truly is boundless, then the possibilities are infinite. It's just that we lack the power to fully harness both our individual and collective potential. For to even explore this universe for ourselves we need to accept our beneficial development as interstellar nomads, independent of Earth's inevitable, limited lifespan. Every unanswered question, every unexplored corner of the cosmos, becomes a doorway to limitless knowledge. The more we learn, the more we realize how much more there is to learn. Embracing The Infinity Using the Frame Condition Theory There were things in existence that our ancestors believed were impossible or too unrealistic to be implemented, from air travel to submarines to the ability to converse with people instantly across vast distances. These once over-the-top notions are now commonplace. They're evidence to the boundless potential of human ingenuity, realized through cooperation. Their innovative existence threatened tradition, and still do, and will resume doing so. The same principle, of technology and innovation proving traditional paradigms wrong, applies today, and deserves to be applied, in the name of the truth. Things we consider impossible might just be waiting for the right spark of innovation to become reality. All it takes, sometimes, is a single, "Eureka" moment , to dispel our conditional thought, that we are more limited, or framed, than we actually are. Our "frames" of knowledge would only remain as such until an innovative discovery is to crush that delusion. The condition of the "frame", the false, delusional mindset, will only remain as such until it is proven wrong. And since nothing is in theory indestructible, then innovation has the potential to break our "frames" of knowledge indefinitely , or infinitely. Let's have some examples: Greek philosopher Anaximander prematurely predicted evolution 2000 years ago , before Charles Darwin, by realizing that early lifeforms were originated from water. It is theorized that 3.5 billion years ago, the first microbes originated from the watery depths of Earth . The seemingly-infinite debates that are ongoing between creationists and atheists online and offline, wouldn't have been possible without these two intellects. It was Sir Isaac Newton who devised the Newton's Universal Law of Gravitation , which mathematically explains gravity through a universal formula. What allows this law to exist is the existence of the centripetal force of celestial bodies, which make them orbit each other, and move along a circular path. This revolutionary idea debunked the flat earth theory , as this physical law wouldn't exist if planets and moons had no core that would allow a centripetal force to make them rotate, thus creating the notion of time . A negative example: By leading a project that designed the atomic bomb, J. Robert Oppenheimer revolutionized warfare by reframing the way it works. Although he managed to prevent many future wars thanks to the Mutually-Assured Destruction doctrine that stemmed from it, any country in the world, at the same time, can be entirely demolished with a press of a button. Who can definitively say there are no intelligent lifeforms out there, mirroring our own cognitive abilities, somewhere in the vast expanse of the universe? Perhaps teleportation, once relegated to science fiction, will one day be a practical mode of travel. And I'm not speaking of Quantum teleportation, which is possible today with atoms and particles. Who knows, maybe artificial intelligence will evolve to the point where its sentience demands a re-evaluation of its rights and place in our world. It's but one of the long-term, future dangers of artificial intelligence , which is technically still in its infancy. The key to the Frame Condition Theory, lies in the absence of concrete, objective limitations. As long as there's no undeniable proof that something is utterly impossible, at any given moment of time, the realm of possibility stretches infinitely into the future . This is why I'm confident enough to assume that no rigid "frames" obstruct our access to knowledge. If anything, the only such "frames" existent are mental or inter-subjective, which is our own delusional product. Since human society is traditionalist by its essence to allow its own harmony , it is largely, if not entirely, anti-intellectual . It is, after all, one of the main points of the intellectual: To challenge pre-supposed notions on reality. Our ignorance is the fuel that ignites the fire of curiosity. That is unless you simply choose to remain ignorant just because absolute knowledge is far from possible. If we were all-knowing by nature, the universe would hold no mysteries, its wonders already laid bare. And philosophy itself would end before it even began. Thus, ignorance, within reason, can be a powerful tool. It propels us forward, pushing us to seek understanding and fill the gaps in our knowledge. This leads to a fascinating question: Will humanity ever truly shed its veil of ignorance towards the universe? Would we ever be able to reach the peak of all knowledge? There is a relatively-certain answer to that question: Should we be relentless in our search for innovation in any given field, we could break any pre-supposed frame of knowledge we merely think exist. There is no other way to know for sure, without relentless innovation. Innovation therefore holds a universal functionality in its potential: To make us aware of the vastness of our ignorance. We've already begun to chip away at the vast unknown. We've discovered planets with glass and acid rain within our own solar system. Others eerily similar to Earth, perhaps even harboring life, given that they contain similar conditions like Earth . We cannot colonize our species properly if we stop being innovative in our collective research. We must keep looking for discoveries so we would be able to act and innovate in accordance to our findings. Unlike a finite video clip, the universe doesn't have a clear ending, as all energy cannot be created nor destroyed, only be transformed to different forms . Who knows what wonders, what unimaginable possibilities, lie beyond the perceived edge of our cosmos? Perhaps the journey itself, the constant exploration and expansion of knowledge, is the true reward. For we cannot act in accordance to the truth, if we give up on understanding what the truth is, either because of despair, or a regard of falsehood as the truth itself.

  • The Mystery of Dreams & What Can We Learn From Them

    (Background music) (Philosocom's Subcategory on Suikoden Content) (Philosocom's Directory On Dreams) Delving into the Enigma of Dreams: A Personal Journey Despite our technological and scientific advancements as a species, we have yet to fully unfold the enigma of dreams, unlike the clear-cut functions of tangible objects like a cup or a bed. As such, the metaphysical nature of dreams remains uncertain, as well as their purpose. As long as this certainty remains elusive, dreams will continue to inhabit the realm of mystery and speculation. Some may interpret them as messages from a higher power , while others relate them to the subconscious/ unconscious mind; a few may even dismiss them as meaningless gibberish. While I lack a definitive answer to the riddle of dreams, I possess a treasure vault of dream experiences accumulated over my life. Their purpose perhaps is destined to remain forever concealed. Unless, of course, a clear explanation emerges from the depths of obscurity. Throughout my life, I have been haunted by countless strange dreams, populated by enigmatic beings and objects. Some of these dreams have even manipulated me into believing that I am awake and not asleep. On my first night abroad, I vividly dreamt of waking up in my familiar room at my home, only to awaken in a foreign land, momentarily confused and questioning my whereabouts. Other dreams have manifested as intense " boss battles ," encounters with bizarre creatures as if I were immersed in a video game. Once again, I was cleverly scammed into believing that I was an active participant within the dream's simulated reality. I am puzzled by the reason behind these dreamy gaming delusions. It's as if my dreams are going the extra mile to deceive me. Why would they do so? Either way, because of their deceptive nature, I see little reason to trust them as eligible sources of information and insights. Many would tell you otherwise, however. I would therefore only be relying on them as indicators to what my mentality is capable to produce, and what I'm able to feel in general, with dreams as odd "case examples". The Recurring Dreams: Crabs, Fort El-Eal And Being Loved A "series" of dreams I had revolved around a certain location in a video game - Fort El-Eal, a castle that was destroyed at the end of the game. In these dreams, I explored the castle's ruins, often encountering enemies that stood in my way. These foes ranged from strange bats to actual soldiers who appeared in that game, armed with their swords. In one particularly memorable dream, I battled a giant crab within the castle's crumbling walls. This creature possessed dark skin and small, light blue eyes. Interestingly, a similar crab appeared in a dream I had when I was a child, but it had purple skin and small, yellow eyes. Not sure why I've been haunted by these color-variant, giant crabs throughout my life. Why can dreams exhibit patterns, despite their mysterious nature? Surely, if we weren't capable of dreaming, our lives would've been a lot more mundane than they might currently be. Nevertheless, it's intriguing to witness something we don't fully comprehend, especially when it displays symbolic patterns that could be analysed by professionals, who themselves might not know the true purpose of dreams. Like with numerology , we might not understand some things' full purpose, but it does not mean we cannot extract and learn insights from them. Said insights can be applicable to reality and even hold some degree of practicality. Does it matter if something makes sense despite its logical flaws, when we can still gain some valuable wisdom from it? Star Wars is a very flawed franchise, filled with plot holes, for example, but it does not mean we can't learn from that franchise's stories and characters. One of the most enigmatic dreams I've experienced involved feeling someone I knew kiss me on the forehead. My family suggested that perhaps my cat was the one who did it, but he had never licked me there, especially while I was asleep. While an exception could always exist, without any witnesses, I cannot confirm this theory with certainty. Despite the limitations of my current monastic lifestyle , I find myself receiving a wealth of experiences through dreams, serving as "unasked substitutes" for the adventures I've no desire of embarking upon in reality. Thus far, I've "visited" Argentina, Romania, Nepal, and even Mozambique. My dream journeys have also taken me to the fictional town of Silent Hill , a desolate horror ghost town, manifesting as an abandoned metropolis. I've even experienced " true love " in the form of being loved and loving someone named Minerva , whom I discovered upon waking was "The Goddess of Wisdom." This dream experience has made me question the necessity of empirically knowing true romance, since I've already felt the emotion of mutual love in a way I didn't get to know much in this solitary and skin-deprived life of mine. Dreams, despite their enigmatic nature, offer a unique window into our subconscious minds, providing possible clues to our untapped potential . They might as well show us what we're capable of experiencing, as our feelings in these dreams feel as if they can be real in real life as well. When I dreamed of being killed several times by a certain humanoid creature, I slowly realized I am capable of becoming apathetic to much agony, because in that dream I felt no pain, despite the horror that was done to me. Thus, apathy can be seen as a form of strength. Living a relatively solitary life, my dreams have taken on a personal significance. They enrich my existence by allowing me to explore diverse locations and landscapes, always alone. I sometimes confront adversaries and "bosses" – powerful and distinct enemies – while at other times, I am granted experiences that would likely remain unattainable in this reality. Such as being killed several times, or being loved, which is rare for me. The Use of Dreams Yet, the question remains: even if dreams serve a personal purpose for me, does that necessarily reflect their true reason for existence, their inherent "intent"? The same applies to the dreams of others. Do they have an objective function, in the world beyond the mind? Consider the utilization of lemons for lemonade as example to that question's logic. This doesn't imply that lemons were created solely for that purpose. After all, they possess other potential uses. It's about employing something for our own reasons, rather than adhering to a designated purpose. I suppose not all questions can be answered by science or philosophy. However, perhaps science will one day gain the upper hand in unravelling these mysteries as well. It's crucial to distinguish between meaning and function. Meaning can be explained as something's originator, while function can either be predetermined or creatively served, regardless of origin. Not all meaningful properties can be utilized, and not all utilized components and materials had a pre-determined use. Either way, their existence will always succeed existence itself, which in this case, are dreams. So, if we were given dreams like we were given lemonades, it's best that we do something useful out of them, even if the true reasoning, AKA, meaning of creation is unknown.

  • Bind Yourself! A Way to Not Give Up (Poem)

    (Philosocom's Subcategory Directory on Despair and Surrender) No heartbreak will stop ever me, From desiring life. Even after death I can still, Prove my relevancy. No hater can stop me with their word, For I will drive by, Across the highway road. As long as something is, Legitimate, And as long as it's, Appropriate, Then why would it be stopped, On its way to the top? As long as something is, Legitimate, And as long as it's, Appropriate, Then why would it be stopped, It won't be stopped! No matter how many times, I will be blocked, I will keep coming back, For I am no longer shocked. Your disapproval means very little to me, When I can continue, Doing some honest philosophy. As long as something is, Legitimate, And as long as it's, Appropriate, Then why would it be stopped, On its way to the top? As long as something is, Legitimate, And as long as it's, Appropriate, Then why would it be stopped, It won't be stopped! Nothing's really a verdict, When it can be changed. You'll have little to gain, By telling me how poor I'm again. The reader's interest, Is my own, it is as well. Great advice will not be forgotten, In a dungeon cell. As long as something is, Legitimate, And as long as it's, Appropriate, Then why would it be stopped, On its way to the top? As long as something is, Legitimate, And as long as it's, Appropriate, Then why would it be stopped, It won't be stopped! Bind your life to something, You hold dear. Then you might find That you may have less to fear. Connect your role, With your identity, Then be amazed, How you can endure it all. With purpose you can, Overcome, Anything that is, Bothersome. And you can succeed, For many years to come! Life is filled with, Psychopaths, But why have them, In your path, When you could not be stopped, Could not be stopped!

  • The Arcane and Causal Fallacy

    (More articles I wrote on spirituality: https://www.philosocom.com/post/the-third-eye https://www.philosocom.com/post/issues-with-spirituality) (Background music) *************************** How Randomness Meets Reality in Tarot Readings As I explored in a previous article, the arcane holds a curious allure . It is one I even used for the production of a miniseries on true love. It could indicate hidden connections ( hence, arcane ), embedding everyday anecdotes with a sense of cosmic significance, possibly suggesting a deterministic hand weaving the tapestry of our lives. This fascination led me to delve deeper, enrolling in various courses online, most notably one on Tarot reading. I managed to get a Tarot Master certificate earned through studying a recorded course of a spiritual polymath . Eventually I tried practicing tarot reading myself based on what I studied. I shuffled and reshuffled the cards, drawing them at random, both individually and in specific spreads. With each card revealed, regardless of its suit or orientation, an uncanny resonance echoed within me. Each image seemed to hold a mirror to my current circumstances, or perhaps even hinted at veiled possibilities in the future. This recurring pattern sparked a realization: humans, in our inherent complexity, are intricate complexes, built from diverse materials of genetics, personality, inclinations, and experiences. This very complexity allows us to find connections, however weak, between ourselves and anything seemingly random, as long as we're willing to weave the narrative for our own favor. And whether or not that narrative even exists is not quite logical as tarot is based on intuition, not on logic. The problem with intuition comes when we rely on it exclusively, without a shred of doubt, leading us to commit confirmation bias. And I quote from Situational Awareness Matters : "It is the facts and data that prove if the gut feeling is right or wrong. ...High consequence environments, when you have that euphoric feeling that everything is going well in a time compressed, high consequence environment, you need to make sure your intuition is right." The power of the tarot, then, lies not in predicting the future or revealing some absolute truth, but in its ability to act as a catalyst for introspection. It nudges us to contemplate the tapestry and identify recurring patterns and themes, and to perhaps even envision potential paths forward. The cards themselves are mere symbols, devoid of objective meaning ( whose existence is proven by the strawman's fallacy ). It is our own minds, with their inherent capacity for association and narrative construction, that breathe life into them, transforming them into mirrors reflecting our inner landscapes, reflecting more on ourselves rather than external reality, which depends on our individual emotions, far, far less. In this way, the tarot becomes a tool for self-discovery, and a potent reminder that the most profound truths often lie not in external validation , but within the depths of our own being. So, while the conformity to arcane pronouncements may remain prone to attack by evidence, the value of their invitation to self-exploration is undeniable. Which of course could indicate what I wrote several times, which is the fact that human beings are not logical by default and may need to learn how to become more logical beings. That is while the external world, even though we're a part of it, is composed of logic, or more specifically, the representation of mathematics and their interactions with one another. Unveiling the Illusion of Arcane Causality In the realm of the arcane a bizarre (or even "arcane") phenomenon unfolds. We draw connections between the seemingly random and the deeply personal, as if they are necessarily related . We embed symbols with meaning, forging a sense of "destiny" from the shuffled deck or toasts with a certain shapes . But beneath this alluring mystique lies a subtle illusion: the causal fallacy, also known as the questionable cause. The core of this fallacy lies in our tendency to perceive correlation as causation. If, upon uncovering a tarot card that resonates with our current state, we declare it a "sign,", without any questioning whatsoever, we've succumbed to this illusion. The card, no matter how evocative, is not the cause of our circumstances, but merely a reflection of what we feel and/or think. This isn't limited to the arcane. Practices like gematria, assigning numerical values to words and letters, can lead us down the same path. We begin to see significance in seemingly mundane details, our names and occupations transformed into symbols of universal mechanisms. This "divine," as some call it, can be God, Jesus, or Allah, depending on our cultural lens (even logos, which is the origin of logic, can also mean, " universal divine reason "). But here's the critical point: Attributing meaning doesn't erase nor "changes" the truth by itself. Cause and effect, though often intertwined, are not always linear. Not every action has a singular, predetermined outcome. Truth and significance, while intertwined in philosophical discourse, are not synonymous. Take the example of this article. Written (originally at least) at 4:02 AM, the time might seem significant, linked to the card " The Lovers " by the sum of its digits. But could I not have written it at any other hour, achieving the same response? In a parallel universe, does the time of publication truly alter the article's impact? Why this specific set of time necessitates insights I can give at any time of the day? The answer is that there is no universal necessity between symbolism and what they aim to represent, meaning they do not always have exclusive representation . Of course the Swatzika symbolizes nazism, but the fact that we associate the swatizka with nazism does not mean it does not represent other things as well, such as the Jain symbol from Jainism. Conversly, other symbols also represent nazism, such as the iron cross or the SS bolts . You don't need to use the swatzika to indicate nazism like you don't need to be awake at 4 AM to write a specific insight. This in general can disprove the idea of determinism that aims to necessitate every single point of time with a certain chain of events. It is not inevitable to write the same insight at 4 PM instead of 4 AM like it is not inevitable to use the SS bolts instead of the swatzika to indicate nazism. Therefore there is no necessary cause-and-effect between symbols and events. Just because two events occur in sequence (a tarot reading before a certain event), one doesn't necessarily cause the other (an event trigerred by the tarot reading). Dogs barking at sunrise don't make the sun rise. Black cats are not these energy sources for bad luck if you happened to lose a gamble when the odds of a gamble was against your favor. Conclusion We need to understand that we are the authors of our own narratives, capable of shaping our destinies without relying on cosmic puppet strings. While the arcane may offer a temporary escape, or a way to further understand our intuition, it is through examination of cause and effect that explains how the world works chronologically. It isn't through feeling whether event "A" really led to event "B" occuring. It is through understanding why one event led to the other, if it led to it in the first place (and thus: Skepticism).

  • Apathy As Strength (And How It Can Also Be a Weakness)

    (Directory on Weakness) (Background music) Realizing emotions does nothing but tell you how you feel about something. Don’t give into the normal tendencies of people by reacting to every little change that happens in the cognitive reality around you. -- Mr. Nathan Lasher To worry about something is to care. Stop caring and all worry ends -- Mr. John Duran Indifference in the Face of Pain: A Different Kind of Strength Strength isn't just about muscling through hardship or carrying on stoically in the face of rejection . It's also about finding a quiet resilience within ourselves, a stillness amidst the storm . It's the apathy that can be described in the face of an aggressive cat's claws, or calmness that may wash over you when someone knocks at your door while driving. This isn't only emotional numbness . It's a conscious choice not to be consumed by the pain, the fear, or the anger. And it's a choice that we can train ourselves to do through discipline . It's acknowledging the situation, recognizing the potential for conflicted feelings, but choosing not to let it dictate your response, thanks to your free will . It's a deep understanding that some things are simply out of our control, and our energy is better spent on moving forward than on futile resistance. Deem it a wiser investment of your mental resources. The choice to care or not is a choice regardless of our willpower to care or not. There exists a multi-layered system of the self. The fact that we feel something does not mean that this feeling is true nor that we should act upon it just because it is present. Apathy, therefore, also holds a cognitive function, which depends on how we relate, if at all, to things and beings, including our very feelings. And with this apathy we can also begin teaching ourselves how to act independently of our own willpower , depending on reasoning mostly if not entirely: We can simply know what there is to be done by understanding logic, without the need for unnecessary attachments which hinder a more realistic perception of reality. This internal strength isn't always flashy or grandiose. It doesn't require feats of physical prowess or public displays of stoicism . Sometimes, it's simply about breathing through the pain, accepting reality , and finding a quiet peace within the chaos. It's about understanding that life is full of unexpected claws and knocks, but we can choose how to react to them. Enduring a lot of pain offers a glimpse into this kind of strength, whether physical or mental. Not escaping from it when it isn't dangerous, and acknowledging its presence, trains our skill to not let it control nor dictate our lives. And slowly, unnecessary suffering becomes accepted as granted , allowing us to be miserable less, and handle our business in life, more. Whether directly or indirectly, apathy's a conscious decision not to be consumed by the negativity, whether it exists in you or not, whether it will exist more or less. This, in itself, is a testament to one's inner resilience, a quiet strength that allows you to navigate the storms of life with a sense of calm and composure. As you can understand, not all strength has to be displayed in vanity. Sometimes it is "expressed" the most when it is hidden; when it does not need to be shown to the world. Those who are inclined to show it far more than others, may be the weaker ones themselves, when they might be compensating for their own lack of certain qualities. So, while physical and emotional strength are undoubtedly valuable, let's not forget the silent roar of serenity, of choosing not to react, of finding peace in the midst of the storm, internal or external. This, too, although underrated in this day and age of prestige bias , is one that deserves recognition and appreciation. The Paradox of Apathy: Strength or Surrender? Do you see now, why apathy is a form of strength? However, it's a paradoxical force, acting like a shield against painful experiences, yet potentially stifling collective growth . In the face of a cat's relentless gnawing, it's apathy that numbed the agony, allowing one to endure the pain without lashing out. On the individual scale it's a temporary immunity to the emotional storm that could have easily swept one away without it. And it's also one that can be extended through training the mind to develop an iron will through the practice of asceticism ( for an example ). But this strength, while effective in individual moments, carries a hidden cost. Apathy can become the root of collective stagnation, which has the power to hinder collective understanding and even reject profound minds as "insane" . When applied to broader societal issues, it morphs from resilience of pain into a lack of desire to learn, a surrender of power that leaves us paralyzed and vulnerable to mistakes whose possibility masterminds can decrease. And when we are too apathetic to learn from our own mistakes, we can doom ourselves to repeat them again. Was Plato right when he said...? "Ignorance, the root and stem of all evil" While ignorance by itself is incapable of malicious intent (for intent stems from desire and values can't "feel" desires), it is capable of many evils. And it is a good way to make people stay ignorant, and thus apathetic, of many horrible events, through the social engineering of hedonism as a granted human feature and not as a specific philosophy. After all, it's easier to completely disregard the deaths of people in lesser known territories worldwide when you're busy gambling your hard earned money on contemporary virtual casinos . And as such, apathy can easily become a tool that can be used against the populace, while bigger entities such as very large corporations go on their way unhindered by public protests. This apathy is also beneficial to those who choose to lie low ; After all it's far easier for justice to be unserved when public interest has little to no realization of one's criminal activities. In the case of murderers who get away, that might also include murder. And it is easy to get killed when you're oblivious to what's going on (or what is about to go on). Knowledge is therefore power because it gives you more clarity of actions to choose from, and why to choose them. (like the choice to not go to a certain slum where a certain death might exist). Remain apathetic to what you should do and you can pay in accordance with your ignorance. Conclusions Apathy, then, is a double-edged sword. It can be a source of strength, a temporary shield against the slings and arrows of life, allowing us to navigate the storm with a certain quietude. However, like with honesty, when wielded indiscriminately, it can become a form of weakness, an unconscious abdication of our responsibility to ourselves and each other, leading us to commit evil acts out of ignorance . Evil acts such as domestic violence, corruption and other criminal activities that surely cause more harm than good. As such apathy is both a strength and a potentially-great source for unintended evil. It is a virtue when endurance is required or desired, and a liability when more knowledge is needed in the name of morality. In contemporary settings there are also several, specific reasons for apathy. The answer to when apathy is a strength or weakness lies therefore in its context. The key, then, is to wield this tool wisely like a swordsman , recognizing its potential for both virtue and harm, and choosing to use it with intention and the awareness of potential implications.

  • Athazagoraphobia -- Driven By Fear

    Description: "The fear of being forgotten by your loved ones can be really painful. We all have at least once in our life felt rejected , ignored or unwanted . Imagine the plight of people who go through such feelings all their lives." ( Source ) Definition: "Athazagoraphobia is an intense or irrational fear of being forgotten, or of forgetting someone or something. It may also include a fear of being ignored or replaced. " ( Source ) Athazagoraphobia -- Driven By Fear (Philosocom's Directory on Fear) (Subcategory On Memory, Nostalgia and the Unconscious) (Philosocom's Subcategory on Revenge) (Background music) There isn't much to do, Other than see it through, That the world shall hear, Of my name, not due to you! So hear what I wish to attain, What I so crave to gain: Unlike you, I can be forgotten, So I claim: Rubinshtein! You've ignored me, In these lonely hallways, So I will make the world see, I can commit World Relevancy! So hear what I wish to attain, What I so crave to gain: Unlike you, I can be forgotten, So I claim: Rubinshtein! You thought it would do, Your ignoring? Please. Your own "helping", Birthed a compulsive nemesis! So hear what I wish to attain, What I so crave to gain: Unlike you, I can be forgotten, So I claim: Rubinshtein! They say it is unhealthy, To cling so deep. But each new connection, Gives my joy such a tip! So hear what I wish to attain, What I so crave to gain: Unlike you, I can be forgotten, So I claim: Rubinshtein! I am not a narcissist, I'm not even that important! And because of this, I am driven to persist! So hear what I wish to attain, What I so crave to gain: Unlike you, I can be forgotten, So I claim: Rubinshtein! Being so faceless, Have haunted me for years! Even if logically baseless, It's my greatest of fears! So hear what I have to say, You soon-to-be-a-wife! My success , will be how you'll "pay", Not much else in my life! I thank you so, For bringing this up! Now I have a lifetime, and a song, To prove you wrong! You've done all the required mistakes, And now I thank you so, Dozens of years, they will take, To serve, your own, cake! A lifetime of work, Can be left in the dust! I don't care I live like an ascetic, A greater audience is a "must"! I am aware I am obsessive, But it runs deeply in my mind! Of one's potential, I am possessive, To rectify humankind!

© 2019 And Onward, Mr. Tomasio Rubinshtein  

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