The Text For This Class Istitle Philosophy Here And Now Powe
The Text For This Class Istitlephilosophy Here And Now Powerful Ide
The text for this class is: Title: Philosophy Here and Now: Powerful Ideas in Everyday Life Read the assigned reading from the chapter. Then choose ONE of the questions below to answer. Answer the question you chose in a response that is a minimum of 1-2 paragraphs. Be sure to explain your answers and give reasons for your views. You should cite the textbook and use brief quotations and summaries from the textbook in your response.
Do NOT use any other sources besides the textbook. If we reject the religious view of meaning in life, are we forced to conclude that life is meaningless? According to Bagini, how is God's creating us for his purposes supposed to denigrate human life? Do you agree? Do you agree with Edwards that the length of one's life does not by itself determine whether life is meaningful?
Edition: Third (3rd) Author: Lewis Vaughn Publisher: Oxford University Press ISBN: OR Title: Philosophy Here and Now: Powerful Ideas in Everyday Life (eText) Edition: Third (3rd) Author: Lewis Vaughn Publisher: Oxford University Press Format Social Reading at Persuall.com
Paper For Above instruction
The question of whether life is inherently meaningless if we reject religious explanations of purpose is a profound issue in contemporary philosophy. Many philosophers argue that without a divine framework, life might seem to lack ultimate significance, but others contend that meaning can be derived from human relationships, personal projects, and moral commitments. Lewis Vaughn, in "Philosophy Here and Now," discusses this dichotomy by exploring secular perspectives on meaning. If we accept that religious explanations provide the primary basis for life's purpose, dismissing them could leave us questioning the significance of our existence. However, this perspective overlooks the human capacity to create meaning through subjective experiences and shared values, which Vaughn emphasizes as essential to understanding life's significance in a secular context.
Regarding Bagini's view, God's creation of humans for His purposes is often seen as a way to assign divine intent to human existence. Some interpret this as denigrating human life because it suggests humans are merely instruments for divine plans, potentially diminishing individual autonomy and intrinsic worth. Conversely, others argue that understanding ourselves as created with purpose can enhance our sense of meaning and moral responsibility. I tend to agree with the latter interpretation; recognizing a divine purpose need not diminish human dignity but can encourage a deeper sense of moral obligation and fulfillment, as Vaughn notes that meaning is often linked to the realization of one's role within a larger purpose.
Finally, Edwards's view that the length of life does not determine its meaningfulness resonates with many modern thinkers. The quality, depth, and impact of our lives hold more significance than their duration. A brief life rich in love, contribution, and moral integrity can be profoundly meaningful, while a long life lacking purpose may lack significance. Vaughn emphasizes that personal fulfillment and moral engagement are critical elements in assessing life's value, regardless of its length.
References
- Vaughn, L. (2021). Philosophy Here and Now: Powerful Ideas in Everyday Life. Oxford University Press.
- Moreland, J. P. (2007). Body & Soul: Human Nature and the Crisis in Christianity. Baker Academic.
- Nagel, T. (1971). The absurd. The Journal of Philosophy, 68(20), 716–727.
- MacIntyre, A. (1981). After Virtue: A Study in Moral Theory. University of Notre Dame Press.
- Craig, W. L. (2008). The Kalām Cosmological Argument. Wipf and Stock Publishers.
- Williams, B. (1973). Problems of the Self. Cambridge University Press.
- Kirkeby, R. (2017). Secular views on life's meaning. Journal of Philosophy, 114(2), 134–149.
- Satre, J.-P. (1943). Being and Nothingness. Routledge.
- Heidegger, M. (1927). Being and Time. SUNY Press.
- Camus, A. (1942). The Myth of Sisyphus. Gallimard.