philosophy

If the world ends next week, there’s no point in doing anything. If the world isn’t ending next week, there’s no reason to rush.

Alexandru R

On a walk with one of my close friends, they confessed that what overwhelms them isn’t the amount of writing, but the quiet, persistent feeling that they haven’t written enough. It wasn’t about productivity, exactly; it was about identity. Some invisible metric, some unspoken tribunal in their mind, seemed to be measuring their worth as a writer. I immediately identified with the struggle. It was a well known frenemy. I responded quickly, as if to save them from futile worry: “If the world ends next week, writing is pointless. Entirely futile. But if we don’t have evidence that it ends tomorrow, then we still have time. There’s no emergency.”

I don’t say that to trivialise time. Time is sacred. Wasting it is perhaps the gravest mistake we can make. But the fear that we haven’t done enough, that quiet tyranny, can paralyse rather than propel. It’s a useful tool, but a terrible master. To write more is noble; to worry about how little we’ve written is futile. In the end, what matters is not how much, but how presently we’ve lived (and written) in the time we’ve had.

 

On perspective

 

Seneca on Time
The Stoic philosopher Seneca wrote “It is not that we have a short time to live, but that we waste much of it.” My friend’s feeling of falling behind (of not writing enough) isn’t about lacking time, but about a kind of inner pressure to have filled that time perfectly. Seneca reminds us that the fear of wasting time can itself waste time.

Camus on Meaning
Albert Camus, in The Myth of Sisyphus, speaks of the absurd — the tension between our longing for meaning and a world that offers none. To continue writing, even when it feels futile, is an act of quiet rebellion. But so is choosing not to rush.

Heidegger on Identity
Philosopher Martin Heidegger wrote about the difference between living authentically and living according to “the they” (that is, societal expectations). My friend’s worry wasn’t just personal; it was a reflection of what they thought a writer should be. Maybe slowing down is a way of reclaiming identity on our own terms.

Atomic Fragments Philosophy
150 150 Alexandru R

If I were to comment, I would argue that the nature of humanity is absurd, its existence a total miracle and its courage an act of madness.

Alexandru R

The fact that we exist at all, not just as matter but as minds, as people capable of reflecting on existence, defies every category of logic. We are the only known species to invent meaning in a universe that offers none. That tension is absurd. And yet, from that absurdity arises something quietly transcendent. We choose to create, to care, to persist. Even though we know we will lose everything. Even though none of it is guaranteed to matter. We take a chance.

This is not a cause for despair. If anything, it is a call to clarity. To live as a human being is to walk into the void with your eyes open. We are not sane because we avoid contradiction. We are sane because we live through it. The courage to love in a world that ends, to build in a world that collapses, to speak in a world that forgets, is not naïveté. It is madness turned into meaning.

 

On perspective

Camus on Absurdity
Albert Camus wrote in The Myth of Sisyphus that the absurd is born of the confrontation between the human need and the unreasonable silence of the world. Your quote echoes that tension, not as tragedy, but as something strangely beautiful.

Kierkegaard on Faith
Søren Kierkegaard spoke of the leap of faith, the irrational, inward movement a person makes when reason reaches its limit. To live with courage, in spite of absurdity, is an existential form of that leap.

Weil on Attention
Simone Weil believed that attention, the radical act of looking directly at suffering and absurdity without fleeing, is a form of grace. To live attentively within the absurd is itself an act of sacred resistance.

Atomic Fragments Philosophy
150 150 Alexandru R

Peacemakers are masters of centric compromise. If you’re on either side, you’ve already committed yourself to some kind of battle, and not to peace.

Alexandru R

The philosophical concept is rooted in the idea that peacemakers, by their very nature, seek to find common ground and reconcile differences. This is often associated with the political philosophy of centrism, which emphasises compromise, balance, and pragmatism.

Centrism is arguably not a conventional ideology with specific political goals, but rather a process or activity that seeks to broker deals and compromises that satisfy both sides of a conflict. This approach is often seen as a commitment to process, facilitating structured dialogue among polarised groups with the goal of enabling participants to come up with new perspectives and solutions that address everyone’s core interests.

The concept of peacemaking as a centrist activity is also reflected in the idea that peacemakers do not commit to one side of a conflict, but rather work to understand and reconcile the perspectives of all parties involved. However, it’s important to note that this concept does not imply that peacemakers or centrists are neutral or passive. On the contrary, they are actively engaged in the struggle to understand and reconstruct the perspectives of opposing camps, and to find a middle ground that can hold the body politic together. This is a dynamic process that requires overcoming cognitive and emotional conflicts between opposing sides to reach a state of justice and peace.

Critics of centrism argue that it can enable extremist and polarised status-quos, and they (centrists) refuse to make radical changes that could benefit the masses. However, proponents argue that without peace, other values – including justice – cannot be realised, wealth and prosperity cannot be achieved, and most personal endeavours cannot be pursued.

Atomic Fragments Philosophy
150 150 Alexandru R

Anything can be tolerated so long as it can be profoundly understood.

Alexandru R

The concept highlights the power of knowledge and understanding in shaping our perspectives and influencing our ability to accept or endure different situations. When we delve deep into the nature of something, whether it’s a challenging circumstance, a different belief system, or a complex problem, we gain valuable insights that enable us to approach it with a sense of empathy and rationality. A profound understanding allows us to transcend our initial biases or knee-jerk reactions, fostering an open-mindedness that paves the way for tolerance.

By striving for a profound understanding, we develop the capacity to see beyond surface-level judgments and prejudices. It encourages us to seek knowledge, engage in critical thinking, and embrace diverse perspectives. The more we learn, explore, and empathise, the better equipped we become to comprehend the complexities of the world around us. In this process, we may encounter viewpoints or situations that challenge our existing beliefs or values. However, by choosing to understand deeply, we create the potential for growth and transformation, expanding our capacity for acceptance and tolerance.

While it is true that profound understanding does not necessarily imply agreement or endorsement, it fosters a willingness to engage in dialogue and find common ground. It allows us to recognize the nuances and intricacies of different ideas, cultures, and perspectives, leading to a more inclusive and harmonious society. Through profound understanding, we cultivate a mindset that is not easily swayed by fear or ignorance, but rather one that embraces diversity, empathy, and compassion. Ultimately, this concept encourages us to approach the world with a genuine desire to learn and appreciate the complexity of the human experience, fostering tolerance and unity amidst our differences.

Atomic Fragments Philosophy
150 150 Alexandru R

Censoring always makes the censored more appealing.

Alexandru R

The concept highlights the intriguing dynamic between censorship and human curiosity. When something is censored or restricted, it tends to generate heightened interest and allure among individuals. This phenomenon can be observed in various aspects of society, ranging from literature and art to political movements and cultural expressions. The act of censoring evokes a sense of mystery and intrigue, prompting people to seek out the censored content, often fueling a desire to explore forbidden or taboo subjects.

Censorship inadvertently imbues the censored material with a certain allure, as it creates a perception that there is something valuable, dangerous, or subversive about it. People are naturally drawn to the forbidden, as it stirs up a sense of rebellion and curiosity. The act of prohibiting or suppressing information can paradoxically amplify its significance and impact. It creates a narrative of exclusivity, wherein accessing the censored material becomes a form of resistance against authority or societal norms. This allure is particularly evident in the digital age, where attempts to censor online content often result in the Streisand effect, causing the information to spread rapidly as individuals rally against the restrictions.

Moreover, censorship also engenders a psychological reaction in individuals. The act of being denied access to certain information or expressions triggers a sense of injustice and an innate desire for freedom of expression and knowledge. The censored material gains an aura of authenticity and credibility, as people perceive it as a threat to the status quo or a dissenting voice that challenges mainstream narratives. This perception can further increase its appeal and influence, drawing individuals who are seeking alternative perspectives or alternative sources of information. By attempting to control and suppress ideas, censorship inadvertently elevates the perceived value and impact of the censored content, making it more appealing and captivating to those who yearn for unconstrained exploration of ideas and experiences.

The desire to explore the forbidden and challenge authority, combined with the psychological reactions to censorship, ultimately makes the censored material more appealing to individuals who seek alternative perspectives or unconventional ideas.

Atomic Fragments Philosophy
150 150 Alexandru R

The future is unknown to us because man has a habit of stealing wonders man doesn’t understand and insist that they are made ordinary.

Alexandru R

​​The concept encapsulates the tendency of human beings to rationalise and normalise extraordinary phenomena or advancements that they cannot fully comprehend. Throughout history, humanity has been confronted with remarkable discoveries and innovations that challenge existing beliefs and push the boundaries of knowledge. However, instead of embracing these wonders, humans often attempt to demystify them or reduce their significance, inadvertently limiting their potential and closing the door to further exploration.

In many cases, when faced with something unfamiliar or extraordinary, people have a tendency to strip it of its mystique and relegate it to the realm of the ordinary. This habit stems from the fear of the unknown and the desire to maintain a sense of control and familiarity. By reducing wonders to ordinary, mundane occurrences, individuals feel more comfortable and can maintain their established worldview without having to confront the profound implications of the unknown. This tendency can stifle progress and inhibit the development of new ideas and technologies.

Moreover, the inclination to steal wonders man doesn’t understand can lead to the appropriation and misappropriation of concepts, inventions, and discoveries. Rather than appreciating and respecting the original creators or the origins of these wonders, some individuals or societies may claim them as their own, denying the contributions and knowledge of others. This act of stealing intellectual property or dismissing the achievements of others further perpetuates a cycle of ignorance and hinders the collective advancement of humanity.

As a consequence of these behaviours, the future becomes increasingly obscured and uncertain. By failing to recognize and embrace the wonders that lie beyond our understanding, we limit our potential for growth and discovery. To truly progress, it is essential for humanity to cultivate a mindset of curiosity, wonder, and humility, acknowledging that there will always be mysteries that elude our grasp. By embracing the unknown and resisting the urge to make wonders ordinary, we can create a future where extraordinary possibilities flourish and propel us towards new frontiers of knowledge and understanding.

Atomic Fragments Philosophy
150 150 Alexandru R

Breaking free is a solitary act.

Alexandru R

To mean that individual freedom often requires personal agency and autonomy.

While external factors such as social structures, cultural norms, or familial expectations can influence an individual’s choices, ultimately, the decision to pursue one’s own path and break free from these constraints must come from within. It is a personal journey that requires self-reflection, courage, and determination.

Breaking free can be a lonely and isolating process because it often involves letting go of the familiar and stepping into the unknown. It can be challenging to go against the norm and face criticism or rejection from those who do not understand or support your choices. However, it can also be a liberating experience that leads to personal growth, self-discovery, and a sense of purpose. Ultimately, breaking free is a courageous act of self-assertion that empowers individuals to shape their own lives according to their values, beliefs, and desires.

 

Atomic Fragments
150 150 Alexandru R

Above all else, one essential thing poverty takes away from people is choice. Choice – a basic human need – in this instance is mostly in the hands of others, and that gives them power over other people’s lives. Poverty is the greatest social injustice of our time as a civilised species.

Alexandru R

The idea that poverty limits people’s choices is a well-established concept in social science research. Poverty can be defined as a lack of resources necessary for basic human needs, including food, shelter, clothing, and healthcare. When people do not have access to these resources, they are unable to make choices that many of us take for granted, such as where to live, what to eat, and whether to seek medical treatment. Poverty can limit the choices of an individual to the point where they may have no say in the direction of their life. In a sense, choice is a basic human need.

This lack of choice is particularly acute in situations where people are living in extreme poverty. In such circumstances, people often have to make choices between competing necessities, such as whether to spend money on food or rent. In such cases, the choices are often made for them, as they simply do not have the resources to make the choices they would like. People who live in poverty may be forced to take jobs that pay poorly and offer little in terms of advancement opportunities or benefits. They may have limited access to healthcare, education, and other basic needs, which can make it difficult to break the cycle of poverty.

The lack of choices that poverty creates can also lead to a sense of powerlessness. When a person feels like they have no control over their life, it can be challenging to take action and make positive changes. This sense of powerlessness can make it difficult for people living in poverty to advocate for themselves and their communities, perpetuating the cycle of poverty and limiting their ability to improve their lives.

When others have the power to make choices for those in poverty, it creates a power dynamic that can be exploitative. Individuals or organisations that have the power to provide resources or services to those living in poverty can use that power to control and manipulate the lives of those in need. And they almost always do. This dynamic can further perpetuate poverty and exacerbate existing inequalities.

In addition to the immediate impact of poverty on people’s ability to make choices, there are also longer-term consequences. Poverty can limit people’s access to education and job opportunities, which can in turn restrict their ability to make choices later in life.

Poverty is not distributed evenly across society, and certain groups of people are disproportionately affected by it. For example, women, children, immigrants, LGBTQ+ people and people of colour are more likely to experience poverty than other groups. This further limits their choices, as they may face discrimination and social barriers that make it more difficult for them to access resources and opportunities.

In conclusion, poverty takes away people’s choices and the ability to control their own lives. This lack of choice can create a sense of powerlessness and perpetuate the cycle of poverty. The power dynamics that arise when others make choices for those living in poverty can also be exploitative and exacerbate existing inequalities. Therefore, it is crucial to address poverty and work towards protecting individuals and communities from the power imbalance, and, as a society, assure basic human rights and dignities such as shelter, food and choice.

Atomic Fragments
150 150 Alexandru R

Life rewards the extreme in thought and measured in action.

Alexandru R

The concept suggests that success often comes to those who are able to think outside the box, take calculated risks, and push beyond the limits of conventional wisdom. However, it also emphasises the importance of balance and practicality in taking action.

In other words, having extreme and innovative ideas is important, but it’s equally important to balance those ideas with practical and measured actions that can actually be implemented in the real world. Simply having grandiose ideas without any plan or execution will not lead to success, but neither will sticking strictly to conventional ideas and never taking risks.

This concept also implies that those who are willing to take bold and unconventional steps in pursuit of their goals are often the ones who achieve the most significant results. Those who play it safe and never take risks are unlikely to achieve anything extraordinary.

However, it’s important to note that the word “extreme” here does not necessarily refer to being radical or controversial. Rather, it means being willing to challenge the status quo and think beyond the limits of what is currently known or accepted.

In summary, this concept suggests that the most successful people are those who are able to balance extreme and innovative thinking with practical and measured actions. By doing so, they are able to achieve significant results that set them apart from others who are either too conservative or too radical in their approach.

Atomic Fragments
150 150 Alexandru R

If we never share our dreams, we condemn ourselves to forever dreaming alone.

Alexandru R

The concept highlights the importance of sharing our goals and aspirations with others. Dreams are powerful motivators that can drive us to achieve great things, but they can also be overwhelming and seem unattainable when we keep them to ourselves. When we share our dreams with others, we invite support, encouragement, and accountability, which can help us to stay focused and motivated.

By keeping our dreams to ourselves, we may also miss out on valuable feedback and insights from others. When we share our goals and aspirations with people we trust, they can offer new perspectives, share their own experiences, and help us to see potential roadblocks that we may not have considered. This can help us to refine our goals, develop new strategies, and ultimately increase our chances of success.

Furthermore, sharing our dreams with others can help us build connections and foster relationships. When we open up about our hopes and aspirations, we allow others to get to know us on a deeper level and create opportunities for mutual support and collaboration. By sharing our dreams with others, we can find allies who share our passions, interests, and goals, and create a sense of community and belonging that can be a powerful source of motivation and inspiration.

Atomic Fragments
150 150 Alexandru R
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