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8 entries this month
00:15 Jun 20 2012
Times Read: 658
What determines the fate of each individual?
The individual themselves, is in control over their experience with physical life. This is not to say that there aren't accidents, and things beyond our control. Though it is a possibility that accidents are the universe's way of punishing us for something we've done. This idea being Karma, though it's just a word for balance.
Is man a creator and mover of his life, or does he live at the effect of forces over which he has little control?
Man is the sole being responsible for their experience in this physical life. Life really is what an individual makes it. If we ascribe to a belief system where our only limitations are self imposed, we are much more likely to live a life we are pleased with. The chances of becoming a being of greater influence in the universe are also greatly increased.
Does free will exist or are our lives determined by outside factors—and if so, what are those
factors?
Free will does indeed exist, outside forces that determine our outcomes do as well. These outside factors are called limitations, and they are only as influential in our lives as we allow them to be.
How does life work: is there a Supreme Force that intervenes in our lives?
Life in a general sense is a physical science, birth brings us into the world, death takes us out of it. Consciousness however, is a another story, I'm not sure of when exactly we become conscious beings, though I doubt it's any time before we gain control over our physical form. Yes, universal law is the supreme force present in our lives. Balance is key in our universe, as within ourselves. When there is an imbalance the universe seeks to correct it, this is what we know as, karma.
Or is everything pre-determined from the beginning of time?
Nothing in life is predetermined, there are far to many variables and possibilities to even entertain that thought.
Or is life just random, full of coincidence and accident?
I believe life is shaped by the actions we take, the limitations we accept and the amount of influence we command on a universal level.
Or is there some other control mechanism we do not perceive?
The universe is a control mechanism in itself, there are laws we must adhere to. There is a cosmic balance which must be maintained, and is maintained by the laws of the universe. Until a time comes where our consciousness becomes such that we can bend or break universal law as we see fit, it is our only master.
20:51 Jun 19 2012
Times Read: 661
What is reality?
At this stage of consciousness, it's a matter of perception. What we understand is perceived as reality. It is constantly changing as our understanding becomes greater.
What is mind; what is thought?
The mind in a physical sense is the control center for our bodies. Spiritually, it is out gateway to higher plains of existence.
Thought is the most basic for of consciousness, it allows is to question perceptions of reality, and form our own views of it. Without thought we would make no process as conscious beings.
Is thought real?
Reality is relative, therefore thought is relative. Ideas are only ideas until proven to be true or false. False ideals then become invalid, and should be discarded, so that those issues can be forgotten, because they are resolved.
Which is superior: mind or matter?
The mind is clearly superior, matter can be changed and altered to suit our needs, or just as we see fit. This is a mundane application of thought, effecting physical change, to improve physical existence.
Has mind created matter or has matter evolved mind?
Matter cannot be created or destroyed, so matter has evolved the mind. If we are to live optimum physical lives, then we need to understand the laws of matter. So that we can work within them to alter our reality to better suit us.
Where do ideas come from?
Ideas come from possibilities, the more possibilities one's mind is open to, the greater the volume of ideas it will produce. Ideas are however, a defect, a lack of understanding. Once something is understood, the need or use for ideas, disappears.
Does thought have any importance--does it make any difference in our lives--or is it just fantasy?
Physically speaking, yes thought, and perception are paramount to human existence. Without thought there are no questions, without questions, there are no answers. Without answers, we have no control over our existence.
What is Truth?
Truth is fact, it is provable beyond a shadow of a doubt. Therefore it is infallible because it is absolute.
Is there a universal Truth, true for all men forever, or is Truth relative or individual?
Yes, universal truth is the only kind of truth. It cannot be disputed, changed or undone. It is the only limitation that must be accepted, because to deny it, would be simply, futile.
19:50 Jun 19 2012
Times Read: 666
What is the place of man in the universe?
To progress, to ascend the physical to a universal state. That is the long term goal, to become superior beings, not separate, but one and the same with everything in the universe.
Is man the highest fruit of the universe or is he just an insignificant speck in infinite space—or something in between?
Man is far from the zenith of existence, or even consciousness. However our potential is great, therefore we are significant, though unrefined and lacking in many ways.
Does the spirit of man descend into matter from higher spiritual realms, or has it evolved from matter?
Yes, the physical body is just that, physical. On a "spiritual" level is where we are more perceptive to the universal forces around us. Our physical form is full of limitation, which we transcend through our spirituality, and becoming more universally in tune.
Is the universe conscious or unconscious of man?
In a physical sense, unconscious, or perhaps indifferent. physically speaking, we are unable to enact universal change, therefore we hardly matter on a universal level as physical beings. In a spiritual sense, we do perhaps have great enough potential to gain notice. Though we've only scratched the surface of universal understanding.
If it is aware, is it warm and friendly to him, or cold and indifferent, or even hostile?
At this point in our existence, indifferent. We have not gained enough influence over the universe, to be considered worthy of recognition.
a Supreme Being.
19:18 Jun 19 2012
Times Read: 670
Is there a Supreme Being? If so, what is His nature?
I personally think it is possible for there to be a "supreme being." I don't however entertain the idea that this being is something to be worshiped. Nor is it realistic to pray to this being for change to be affected in a physical, mental, or spiritual sense.
Did He create the universe?
If there is a supreme being, than it is possible that they did. Though the scientific process by which we believe our known universe came to exist, would still have to have been the case. However, a superior being could possess the ability to start the scientific process. So, in a physical or scientific sense, no. Idealistically it is a possibility. In other words, our universe could simply be manifested by a being with the knowledge of universal law, simply wanting to create a universe.
Does He continue to control it personally and if so, at what level?
No, that seems highly illogical. If a supreme being "created" our universe, but scientific principals still applied, the the universe is controlled by the nature of the universe. On a scientific level, therefore everything within the universe, is explainable by a scientific law.
What is his relationship with man?
Logically speaking, only a theoretical one. Such as the theory stated above. On the level of our limited understanding though, this superior being, is seen as something to be worshiped. To which all the mysteries of our universe can be applied, and responsible for. I see "God" as a cop out, a comfortable explanation to the, at this point, unexplained.
Does he intervene in the affairs of man?
No, a supreme being, free of irrational, illogical human constructs, such as emotion, attachment, and morality would have no concern for human existence. Our entire evolutionary cycle up to this point, is terribly insignificant on a cosmic level. Why would a supreme being with the ability to create it's own universe care to be involved in the mundane occurrences of insignificant beings? "He" wouldn't.
Is this Being good?
Seeing as how morality is relative, there is no answer for this question, in terms of the accepted notion of "good." A superior being, would be governed only by truth, those being facts. Not needing to justify anything, because their knowledge would simply dictate what action be most beneficial to their goal. Options themselves would nolonger exist to this being, only fact, to do or think anything else, would simply be wrong. Not in a moral sense, but factual, incorrect, if you would.
If this Being is good and all-powerful, how can evil exist?
Again, morality is relative. It is not the creation of a superior being. It is in fact, a human construct. A higher being would have no use for such a system of good and evil. There is only what is factually correct, and what is factually incorrect.
18:36 Jun 15 2012
Times Read: 678
"Ray charles, has killed more Jews, than happy marriages have ended in divorce." -Louis CK.
Sunday mornings.
18:54 Jun 10 2012
Times Read: 698
Often I wonder, as a non religious non believer, can Sundays also be held sacred? My answer is yes. I've studied Christianity on a rather extensive basis, and Sunday is particularly fascinating, to me. For people like my mother, grandmother and, devout Christian followers of all kinds, the entire week is only leading up to Sunday.
What do they do that is so profound? They go to church, they are around loved ones, they might have dinner as a family. These activities, though small, are of great personal significance to them.
What if we all individually had a day to do things we enjoy, or that hold importance to us? I am lucky enough to have the free time to try this out. Here is what my Sunday schedule looks like.
1. I wake up, and stretch. (Tai Chi)
2. After I'm all limbered up, I do 100 push ups and sit ups (different variations) and forearm strengthening excercises.
3. Then I go into my kitchen and prepare french toast (made 4 slices of 7 grain bread, topped with all natural, crunchy peanut butter) and pour myself a cup of black coffee, and another glass filled with water.
4. When I finish eating breakfast, while doing some light reading (today: On the warriors path, philosophy fighting and martial arts mythology. by Daniele Bolelli)
Usually by this point, my parents and brother are all out of the house, on their way to church, leaving my 93 year old grandfather and myself.
5. I browse the internet for some new interesting porn to watch, then masturbate. (haven't started looking yet, but I'll find something, I'm sure)
6. When I've finished cleaning up, I jump in the shower which is very hot, with a sound track of some kind playing on my ipod. (today, I'm thinking Lord of the Rings, Return of the king) I spend a good 15 minutes after washing, shaving and all of that is complete, just breathing. Meditating on the next week, picturing it in my mind, unfolding as I want it to unfold.
7. Feeling mentally at peace at this point, I turn my focus to my physical state, and make any alterations I feel are needed. (trimming and shaping my eyebrows, shaving my face, edging my soul patch, cutting my finger nails, plucking my nose hair, brushing my teeth)
8. Now finished with my grooming, I take inventory of my essential, perishable belongings. (tooth paste, various hair styling products, shave gel, razors, fragrances, deodorant) then I make a list of anything I need to pick up the upcoming week.
9. Free of my worries for my short term possessions, I can focus on my more long term belongings, so I clean my room from top to bottom, and do my laundry.
These 9 steps take me quite a while, and for a reason. In the 4 hours on Sunday morning that I'm alone, doing my thing, I am happy. There is no one to judge me, or force their ideas of how I should behave, upon me. I enjoy my freedom, it is when I'm most productive, mentally I'm free of my prison, my inhibitions are gone. So, I take great offense to being told, how I spend MY Sunday isn't how a higher being would like me to. I am happy in my time alone, while you (my mother in this case) are for filling an obligation, that I could never see bringing you the clarity and enrichment that my Sundays offer me.
An amazing argument.08:25 Jun 06 2012
Times Read: 721
Skepticism, long have I believed it should be taken in healthy doses. To look at all things from every imaginable angle. Is not that the road to understanding? Or rather the great intersection? In that light one must continually examine and seek to find the undeniable answers. But can such answers be obtained in regards to a philosophic stand point? Where so much is based upon our own beliefs and the way in which we perceive the world and the workings of it. To me it is the difference between truth and fact. Where in truth can be spoken honestly, if not correctly as it is known to the speaker, but fact is undeniable. And in that sense one cannot claim fact over how they see the world for there shall always be a different opinion. Allow this paper to demonstrate the ways in which perception is born and ultimately lays waste to any “unshakable” foundation to a philosophic truth.
Whether the state of humanity or just the human state. There is much to be said about the way it effects how the world is perceived. Imagine if you will a man in the prime of his life, youthful and in perfect health. How might he view the world around him? It is known that when you are youthful you are more full of energy, in an eager state of mind. This has a lot to do with the basic chemistry within the body. Hormones and endorphins are at an all time high, the fuel of life some may say. This energized and excited state has a great affect on how one sees the world. Where in a one may see a wall, a youthful soul may see only a barrier to climb. Optimistic is a common place term for such an attitude. To perceive encounters and barriers as a welcome challenge that confidence ensures they can over come. All this effected and brought about by the healthy and youthful state of their body. And what of the other side of the coin? An elderly person, or perhaps someone who is very ill. A body that feels heavy tends to weight on the mind. A person in this state may see the world in more of a gray scale. Bring up the metaphorical wall once more and a person who's body is frail and tired will tend to shy away from the challenge. Within such a mind set, a general acceptance of limitations comes about. How then does the world seem? Perhaps moving a bit slower and out of reach. These feelings are generally brought about by the drop in hormones or the aches and pains that come with age and illness. Constantly reminding one that their body is not what it once was. Within just these two examples we see a monumental difference in how just a state of health and age in which a person's body can bring forth a generally optimistic or detached sense of being. Thus, the a person's state, greatly affects how they see the world and though the same things may be looked upon, they will not be viewed in the same light.
Environment our world in which we live, it would be naive to believe that our surroundings do not influence the way in which we perceive things. To follow that train of thought it would seem obvious that a different environment will generate a different outlook. A few simple examples come to mind. If one examines the difference between rural and urban areas there stands a stark contrast, but how might these contrasts change how we view the world? Let us examine the urban areas first. Quite often refereed to “melting pots” of cultures based upon the variety of cultures and the large population. Growing up exposed to such conditions makes variety and difference common place. One could then argue that growing in one of these “melting pots” will lead you to having a more open mind simply because you are exposed to so much varying attributes of society on a daily basis. The counter part (being the rural area) tends to have a much slower pace of life. Not much changes over decades in these areas. With such a constant life and within a small community there tends to bring about a unified idea of the “norm” where most of the people living within the area, know each other and have similar stand points and ideas. Thus one could inference that growing up in this environment would bring about a mind of customs and traditions. Abrupt change of vast differences would then be rejected or even feared. Effectively closing off ones mind to many new ideas to maintain that state of normalcy. However, the smaller population also brings about another trait, a stronger sense of community. Often rural areas are described as a place “where everybody knows everybody”. How does this effect the mind set? Well when the community is close nit the people tend to think as a whole. Viewing what would be best for everyone. This perception goes hand in hand with our previous observation and in fact fuel each other. Back to our urban area, vastly populated and full of variety. This places breeds independent minds (not to say there is no community) but on such a grand scale the knitting is not as tight. And so the free thinker tends to come from these areas where so many ideals and mini communities come together one is forced to examine things in a different light. And so it is easy to believe that where our minds develop will have a grand impact on the way in which it perceives things.
Sense, arguably one of the most important influences of perception. As the senses are our guides to the world around us, of course how they react to things will affect how we ultimately judge them. Perhaps the most basic example would be to look at the varied tastes in food. And how almost every person adds their own little bit of seasoning to their food. A simple but wonderful example of how the sense of taste even on the same type of food can be varied greatly from person to person. Now to, or perhaps to not, look at the sense of sight. Color seems infinite and has long been inspirational and mood changing. All brought about by our ability to see and intemperate colors. Interestingly enough however, color is left to just that interpretation. Whether it be an argument of the proper label for a “shade” of a certain color (i.e. its dark blue not royal blue) or someone who was born with their eyes unable to see the hue all together (color blindness). But even deeper, how might the lack of sight change how we perceive the world? It is said that when one sense ceases to work properly the others improve to help compensate. But lets focus on the lack there of. What might something simple like the color blue be to that person? Curious to think how differently they may see things within their mind when hearing the base word of a color such as “blue”. Truly it is intriguing how something so seemingly simple as the color blue can be so vastly different based on each person.
What is there to be said about perception based on circumstance? How might they change as do the circumstances.? It is undeniable that what happens to us throughout our lives changes how we see the world. To touch back on the a persons state, the change of said state would then change ones perceptions. Thus circumstance changes perception. Take a man on top of the world wealthy with an easy going life. His attitude towards the world one could imagine to be a positive thing. When looking on the world he would see freedom as all is available to him nothing out of reach. Now strip away the variable that is his wealth. How might this same my see the world now? With such a sharp fall from grace, he may become bitter or jaded. Remembering what he had and comparing that to what little he does now could cause a spiteful distaste for the world about him. The same man, but circumstance changes his life and that dramatic change does so change how the world is interpreted.
Perception is beautiful, arguably the most powerful influence, and yet it is ever so fickle. As has been shown, the simplest of changes whether it be the human state, environment, the senses, or just circumstance can shake the foundations on which our ideals are built. And so with that one can only determine to be unsure. To keep an open mind to all possibility for while it may be true for you (and it may not always be) does not mean it is a fact. That is why a skeptical stand point, is in fact the logical stand point and shall lead to a greater understanding of the world and the ways in which it works. Skepticism in a sense, is the fuel for philosophy.
Fundamental question. 15:46 Jun 01 2012
Times Read: 741
Life:
Anyone who studies and writes philosophy, is inevitably asked, what’s the meaning of life? I can sum up this terribly mundane question best, in one word, progress. When it really comes down to it, what other reason is there to live? Family, friends, material goods? All gained by progress, albeit in different areas, but progress none the less. How do we achieve “success” in this life? By setting goals, and the level to which we meet them, defines our success. This is not to say, there isn’t fulfillment to be had elsewhere. I simply propose that the purpose of life, is to always improve, never becoming complacent
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