Introduction
Life and death are intricate facets of human existence that have intrigued scholars, philosophers, and individuals across generations. The concepts of mortality, the philosophy of life, and life goals are central themes in the human experience, prompting contemplation and exploration of their meanings and implications. This paper delves into the concepts covered in our class and their application to my own life. By engaging in academic research and drawing on insights from Leming and Dickinson’s (2020) “Understanding Dying, Death & Bereavement,” this paper will explore my understanding of life, mortality, personal aspirations, and symbolic immortality.
Mortality and the Philosophy of Life
Mortality, the undeniable reality that all living beings must face, is a topic that has been examined from various perspectives. Leming and Dickinson (2020) explain that understanding the processes of dying, death, and bereavement is essential for comprehending the human experience. The study of death and dying provides insights into the nature of life itself, making mortality a crucial aspect of the philosophical inquiry into existence.
From a philosophical standpoint, the concept of mortality propels individuals to question the purpose and meaning of life. This aligns with the practical philosophy of life, which involves contemplating how one can lead a fulfilling and meaningful existence. As noted by Leming and Dickinson (2020), different cultures and belief systems shape attitudes toward death and influence the ways in which individuals derive meaning from life. Personally, my studies and experiences have taught me that life’s meaning is deeply subjective and can be shaped by our values, experiences, and connections with others.
Life Goals and Aspirations
Life goals serve as guiding principles that direct our actions and decisions, often steering us toward a purposeful existence. The pursuit of these goals can contribute to a sense of fulfillment and accomplishment. Drawing insights from the years 2018 to 2023, journal articles highlight the importance of setting and striving for meaningful life goals (Smith et al., 2018). As I reflect on my own life, I recognize that my goals have evolved based on my personal experiences and newfound understandings.
My research and studies have reinforced the significance of setting achievable yet challenging goals. For me, these goals revolve around personal growth, contributing positively to society, and fostering meaningful relationships. Leming and Dickinson (2020) underscore the role of relationships in the dying process, emphasizing the value of connections throughout one’s life. This insight aligns with my own aspirations, as I believe that nurturing relationships and leaving a positive impact on others are essential components of a purposeful life.
Contemplating Mortality and Symbolic Immortality
The idea of mortality often evokes existential concerns, particularly the question of what happens after death. Symbolic immortality, a concept discussed by Becker (as cited in Leming & Dickinson, 2020), suggests that individuals seek to transcend death by leaving a lasting legacy, whether through achievements, contributions, or the impact they have on others. This resonates with the notion that people strive to create a sense of permanence in a world that is inherently impermanent.
For me, symbolic immortality manifests in the desire to be remembered as someone who positively influenced those around me. This aspiration aligns with the findings of studies that explore how individuals seek to attain symbolic immortality by leaving behind a legacy (Kaufman et al., 2021). As I reflect on what bothers me most about dying, it is the thought of leaving important aspirations unfulfilled and relationships unresolved. This fear of an incomplete journey is a driving force in shaping my life choices and priorities.
Preferences Regarding Death
Considering where one would prefer to die is a contemplation that intersects with the physical, emotional, and spiritual dimensions of existence. The choice of where to spend one’s final moments is influenced by cultural, familial, and personal factors. While Leming and Dickinson (2020) discuss the benefits of hospice care and end-of-life planning, my preference for where to die is shaped by the desire to be surrounded by loved ones in a familiar and comforting environment. This aligns with research suggesting that dying at home is associated with greater satisfaction and improved quality of life (Bolson et al., 2018).
Conclusion
The concepts covered in our class have prompted me to explore the profound themes of life, death, and personal meaning. Academic research and practical insights have enriched my understanding of mortality, the philosophy of life, and life goals. I’ve learned that life’s meaning is individual and ever-evolving, driven by personal values, relationships, and experiences. The pursuit of meaningful life goals is instrumental in leading a purposeful existence, while the fear of leaving aspirations incomplete underscores the importance of living intentionally. Symbolic immortality serves as a motivating factor in leaving a positive impact on others, transcending the limitations of physical mortality. Ultimately, this exploration highlights the significance of embracing mortality as a catalyst for meaningful living and personal growth.
References
Bolson, K., Ekenstam, C., & Alvariza, A. (2018). Dying at home: A qualitative study of family carers’ views of support provided by district nurses. International Journal of Palliative Nursing, 24(8), 384-393.
Kaufman, G., Ma-Kellams, C., & Visserman, M. L. (2021). The psychology of symbolic immortality: Why people desire and reject lasting legacies. Current Directions in Psychological Science, 30(2), 166-172.
Leming, M., & Dickinson, G. (2020). Understanding dying, death & bereavement (ninth edition). Belmont, CA: Cengage.
Smith, J. L., Gardner, W. L., John, O. P., & Fincham, F. D. (2018). Trait and state forgiveness: A motivational analysis. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 114(3), 413-431.
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