Is life worth living? Maybe.
"Is life worth living? It depends on the liver" - William James
Jordan Reining (H1)
A brief overview
Suicide continues to be a constant concern across the United States. With these deaths comes the question of why. A common thought is mental illness, although there are a multitude of other factors including race, economic status, gender, and substance abuse. Many philosophers have shared their thoughts on the topic. Libertarians often hold the belief that we are the owners of our bodies, and therefore have the right to decide what we do with them. On the other hand, Christians are strictly against suicide, as it goes against God. Regardless of the morality of suicide, one question that many consider is if live is worth living.
The power of 'Maybe'
Philosopher William James (left) asked this question during a lecture at Harvard University. His famous essay on the subject talks about suicide and meaning in ones life. He explains that many people easily answer the question with optimism, however, he objects, stating that optimism is often temporary. If optimism and happiness were permanent, James explains, then there would be no need to ask such questions.
Throughout his life, James struggled with suicidal thoughts. Overwhelmed with the loss of his son, he got through it by focusing on philosophy. By pondering and answering philosophical questions, he was able to gain control of his life and continue on. At the end of his speech, he encourages the audience to "Believe that life is worth living, and your belief will help create the fact."
It is clear that James does not have a set answer as to whether life is worth living. Based on his experience, it all depends upon 'maybe'. If you believe and have faith that life is worth all of the struggle, then it will likely become true, even if it is only true for you. On the other hand. if you do not look past the hardships and evil that life brings, life will slowly stop appealing to you.
In order for this idea to work, one must have a little faith and desire. With no effort put in, one's life will remain the same- good or bad. Putting an idea into place and getting the ball rolling so to speak, is what counts.
Living for yourself and others
Like William James and countless others, I have been close to those that often teeter on the edge of life and death. A weighted decision that cannot be undone waits in the air for a reason to stay or go. At the thought of a life worth living, a few questions come to mind. When on the edge, most think about ending a pain that will not give up. The effects and feelings of others is not brought to mind in such times of crisis. While James focuses on a 'maybe', I will be focusing on the pleasure of life and the expense of others.
Life's pleasures
Epicurus (right)comes to mind when thinking of a good life. Old Epicureanism focused on the simplicity of life. Life could be full of pleasure while keeping things minimum- lavish parties were traded in for time with friends.
This video is a good reminder of Epicurus and his philosophies if you've forgotten.
As mentioned in the above video, Epicurus believed three things were necessary for a good and fulfilling life.
- Friends. He realized that time with friends was important in keeping people happy.
- Focusing on meaningful work. Epicurus believed that smaller settings were beneficial. Being involved and benefiting the world while enjoying your work was necessary.
- Epicurus had recognized that having a clear head would lead to happiness. Limiting anxieties would only help in the long run.
The expense of others
Suicide usually results in harm done to those around it. Some affect a community while others affect a small group. These groups are filled with people often called suicide 'survivors'. One of the warning signs of suicide is knowing someone that has attempted and succeeded.
Many arguments against suicide take root in its harm to communities. In spaces with younger people, suicide can lead to suicide clusters. The actions of one show others that life is in your hands, and the control is yours, however, not every suicide will influence or be the cause of another.
Is one life's end of suffering enough to justify what may be the beginning of pain for those connected to that life? This question strikes a similarity to the ethical question of one life versus ten lives. All choices will be against one side, benefiting the other. There is no clear answer, and this question is one discussed by those focused on the community aspect of suicide.
Is life worth living in order to spare the pain of others? According to James, life might be worth living, depending on what you believe. Going through the motions just to spare others may not change much, if you do not put faith in it.
There is not a concrete answer to the question of if life is worth living. For some, the answer is as easy as breathing. For others, a struggle presents itself at the beginning of each day to continue. Life is full of both pleasure and pain, regardless of how you live. In the end, it comes down to maybe.
