I definitely agree with Scheffler’s article that the existence of future generations helps give our life purpose and meaning. What we leave behind – values, norms, inventions, etc., – are what future generations will learn from and will expand upon. This is why individuals care so much about the legacy they will leave behind. There was one point in Scheffler’s article in which he mentioned the importance of religion and the consolation one receives when they think about death/afterlife in a religious perspective. Here I would like to discuss the Hindu religion and its unique beliefs about afterlife and death. Most Hindus believe in reincarnation of the soul which is immortal in a sense. The soul is part of this “jiva” or being that is liberated over and over again and allowed to return to Earth. Because one is liberated over and over again, one’s karma although important seems somewhat insignificant. The purpose of this “jiva” or being is to ultimately reach and understand what is means to be whole (pure). Afterlife therefore is a nonexistent concept. Hindus therefore believe that they will have a chance to contribute over and over again in society. Many find comfort in this idea and therefore leave for various pilgrames in their later life in which they truly devote themselves to the study of god.
I think you make great points. I too feel that the purpose and meaning of our lives stems from the existence of future generations. Personally, I feel that for many people such as actors and musicians, if there is no future generation they would feel no motivation to make movies or music, respectively. Without anyone to appreciate their work, these individuals would likely not have any purpose to act or make music.
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