Meaning

view of meaning. I do not think that meaning is objective. I think that meaning is a human construct, which is completely subjective, and not existent in the world outside of our minds. This idea is supported by Nagel when he states that a mouse is not absurd “because he lacks the capacities for self-consciousness and self-transcendence that would enable him to see that he is only a mouse” (295). This applies to every organism and every object outside of the human mind. Because meaning is…

as one can remember, Philosophers have always tried to answer of what the meaning of life is, or if there is even meaning, but eventually gave up on it because too many factors are implied in answering such a question. In his article, The Meanings of the Questions of Life, John Wisdom challenges the question by presenting some of the factors that might lead some people to think that it is pointless to ask what the meaning of life is before presenting his own opinion that states that asking the…

Throughout the ages, we have seen that a symbol in literature can suggest more than its average run of the mill meaning. In Shirley Jackson’s “The Lottery” she uses several different symbols for their realistic and symbolic meanings. On the realistic level, each symbol sets as a part and that has its own place in the story but represents a hidden thought or idea upon closer inspection. She uses symbolism for these items in the story to create a sense of foreshadowing and to create some…

Seldom, one thinks of the meaning of its own existence. Further, if any is assigned, it’s usually nominated by religion or social constructs, which in reality have no productive value. This is evident in everyday conversation when one finds individuals unsure, hesitant, nervous or even unaware of this matter. For centuries though, philosophers or lovers of wisdom as defined in Latin, have sought to find the meaning of life. The different outcomes, the different interpretations and the different…

The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas The title of the movie appears to be a pun on words. It offers multiple meanings of who the real protagonist of the movie is and how could a viewer understand the meaning and purpose of the story. The sting of death is like a pinch on one’s skin that makes one think about the act of pinching and also the pain involved in it. The one in pain would reflect on his or her skin as the platform that lives with a destiny of experiencing a pinch or an injury, and the…

in artistic execution. Tattoos may not always be so forward about their meaning or what it is they symbolize, but sure enough a meaning is always there. For example, a simple yellow bell on my mother’s right ankle, and to most that is all it is a simple yellow bell, but for her it’s a symbol of a childhood nickname that her mother used to call her. My mother…

The Meaning Of Life The last chapter that Nagel expresses his philosophy is about the meaning of life. He asks what is the true meaning of life? And why our existence even matters? He continues on saying we make big and small problems such a big issue, when in reality they don’t even matter just like all of us. Of course Nagel then reverses the role and explains that people tend to find a purpose for themselves, like worshiping God, a meaning to living. But why, he asks, if God doesn’t even…

The Meaning of Life Opposing forces, life and death, must coexist in order for the life cycle to continue revolving: the birth of one replaces the death of another. However, these forces do not hold an equal partnership. Life is given positive characteristics as a result of people enjoying living. Likewise, most people do not enjoy the trepidation that anticipating death brings, so they ignore the possibility of death. Those fixated on the uncertainty of death constantly live in fear of it.…

drew their first breath. The question that arises from this is why are some people chosen to live longer than others? People all over the world have chosen the answer for this to simply be our purpose. Having a purpose in life gives our life more meaning and makes it more fulfilling. Luke Muehlhauser explores what it means to have purpose and proves that no matter what our definition of “purpose” is, we all have one. For those who are religious, it is easy to see where the idea of purpose…

the play, let the audience know his attitude to Polonius? Throughout Hamlet’s interaction with Polonius, audience can observe the lack of respect Hamlet carries towards him. Hamlet subtly expresses his anger with word choices that contain double meaning. For example, when Polonius attempts to make conversation with Hamlet, Hamlet replies by saying "Excellent well. You are a fishmonger." (Ham, 2.2.166) Although Hamlet understands that Polonius in fact does not sell fish, Hamlet decides to use…