Overview
This lecture explores the question of what constitutes a good life, contrasting existentialist, hedonist, and Aristotelian views, and emphasizes the value of self-examination and philosophical inquiry.
Evaluating the Good Life
- A good life may be judged by oneself or by others, but perspectives may differ.
- Philosophers debate if the goodness of a life is determined by personal experience or external evaluation.
- Self-examination ("the unexamined life is not worth living" – Socrates) is crucial for assessing one's life.
Existentialism & Camus' Sisyphus
- Camus' myth of Sisyphus symbolizes life’s lack of inherent meaning but also the potential for personal meaning-making.
- Existentialism asserts that meaning comes from our choices and the value we assign to actions.
- The message: your life’s greatness is up to you; change it if you are unhappy.
Work & Meaning
- Joanne Ciulla advises finding work you love, as work shapes much of your waking life.
- Job satisfaction is more important than status or pay for a meaningful life.
The Experience Machine & Hedonism
- Robert Nozick’s "Experience Machine" thought experiment challenges whether pleasure alone defines a good life.
- Most people reject living in the machine because simulated experiences lack connection to reality.
- Hedonism equates the good with pleasurable experiences, questioning if virtual pleasure is sufficient.
Aristotle’s Eudaimonia & Virtue
- Aristotle’s concept of eudaimonia: flourishing through striving for virtue, wisdom, and self-improvement.
- He insists there are correct ways to live as a human, focusing on reason and virtue, not just preference or pleasure.
- Some lifestyles (e.g., indulgence, laziness) are considered objectively not good for humans.
The Value of Philosophy in Life
- Philosophers continue to disagree on what is a good life, reflecting ongoing inquiry since ancient times.
- Philosophy encourages questioning, openness to new evidence, and continuous self-improvement.
- Philosophical thinking benefits all professions and daily life by fostering creativity, flexibility, and holistic thinking.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Existentialism — the belief that individuals create their own meaning through choices and actions.
- Hedonism — the philosophy that pleasure is the highest good.
- Eudaimonia — Aristotle’s idea of flourishing through rational activity and virtue.
- Experience Machine — Nozick’s hypothetical device offering simulated perfect experiences.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Reflect: Are you living according to your values and goals?
- Consider what gives your life meaning and direction.
- Continue to question and critically examine your life choices.