That's right. Is it so difficult to accept that the universe is exactly what it appears to be, a complex process in which we are only participants, not the cause? Humanity has no role in the scheme of things, as far as we can tell, and if it does, we have no reason to believe it does except our own self-generated need to provide ourselves with meaning.
We are part of the universe, we have every right to be here, but the universe is not here for our benefit. The rest of it could get along fine without us. We are programmed as biochemical systems to do one thing and one thing only, that is to live long enough to produce offspring. Everything about us is designed to this purpose. The phenomenon of consciousness provides us with some survival advantages which seem to be useful to our DNA'a continued propagation, at least for the time being. I, for one, choose to enjoy this phenomenon, and I treasure it, but I don't delude myself into thinking it plays any greater role in the larger scheme of things. As Grace Slick once observed, "It doesn't mean shit to a tree."
The universe has pattern, but no purpose. If it should have some hidden purpose, it would be the ultimate arrogance for us to think that we were a part of it. And if it does turn out that we are the reason the universe is here, then we certainly can't be blamed for not being able to perceive it with the little evidence provided to us.
Off Topic » in reply to I know.
re: I know.
The whole thread (59 posts)
- In my next life.....
- Only one? (n/t)
- Parallel Lives--a digression.
- Not true.
- I cannot accept that.
- "Snuff out a flame, relight the candle."
- I wasn't arguing immortality.
- I am of the completely opposed opinion.
- My point is
- re: I am of the completely opposed opinion.
- I am of the completely opposed opinion.
- Basic physics.
- I cannot accept that.
- re: Parallel Lives--a digression.
- Almost anything beats oblivion
- The Awesome Need for Death.
- Not true.
- re: Way to predictable for me