The Undead and the Examination of Life -- The Dark Side of Enlightenment
Updated: Sep 6
(The Undead Metaphor's Directory: https://www.philosocom.com/post/a-new-type-of-undead-and-my-background-story
Part I: A Paradox of Hope
Life is a complex interplay between the forces of illusion and reality. As such, philosophy, the path of the truth-seeker, often presents a paradoxical challenge:
While illusions provide a comforting sense of purpose and meaning, a deeper exploration can lead to a profound disillusionment. Personally, a depression of 16 years have began since the success of my first philosophical experiment.
To navigate this potentially counterintuitive path, one must possess a strength capable of enduring the shattering of illusions, and be able to embrace the feelings of the power of the avoid, and reality's true emptiness.
The Illusionary Nature of Existence
Illusions, the projections of our consciousness, serve as the scaffolding upon which we construct our lives. From ambitions and personalities to plans and social constructs and religions, these illusions shape our perceptions and experiences, regardless of the World Beyond the Mind. While they may offer comfort and direction, they are but a mirage we hold dear in the vast desert of void.
Of course, those who seek to shatter these deeply-held illusions, will have to face social risks upon their philosophic enlightenment. Be rejected as madmen, and might even find themselves romantically lonely, like Nietzsche.
Part II: The Perils of Philosophical Inquiry
A conscious examination of life, which delves into the depths of philosophical inquiry, can be a disturbing experience. As we peel back the layers of illusion, we may confront a more-barren reality. These bleak revelations can lead to a loss of faith in cherished beliefs, a sense of isolation, and a profound existential crisis.
A Word of Caution
If you are considering philosophical inquiry, be prepared for the possibility of losing faith in cherished beliefs. Be prepared for finding yourself in the dark belly of True Nihilism, which only few are able to fearlessly endure. Be prepared for feelings of isolation and alienation, especially from those who are dear to you, as they might fail understanding the insights you understand.
Finally, be prepared for a profound shift in your perspective, which then would compel you to alter the power of choice in your actions. Actions, whose power could affect others as well, for better or for worse.
If you are not strong enough to handle the potential consequences, or if you don't mind your own potential impulsivity, then there is no shame in choosing a more comfortable and familiar path. In the hands of the reckless, even philosophical inquiry could bring unnecessary harm to this world, as seen in those who decide to become school shooters, or attempted revolutionaries.
The mainstream lifestyle, with its distractions and unexamined beliefs/illusions, can offer a sense of psychological security and purpose for those who are unable to bear the weight of existential truth.
Conclusion: The Liberating and Terrifying Potential of Being "Undead"
Most of the living are able to relate to one another because they are embedded in a web of their own matrix. It is with that matrix, they can connect with each other on a deeper level, and enjoy the width and depth of human emotion, together.
The philosopher actively lambasts that matrix, as he or she finds themselves outside of it, thus becoming "undead". At their sacrifice for truth, they sacrifice the vividness of human social life, and the benefits that stem from being able to relate to much of humanity.
Yet, despite the challenges, philosophical inquiry can also be a liberating experience. It can allow us to see the world with fresh eyes, appreciating the hidden logic systems of life, finding ourselves filled with awe and wonder, all the while.
However, it can also be terrifying, forcing us to confront our own mortality and the ultimate futility of our endeavors (the Eternity Fallacy).
Whether or not to embark on this philosophical journey is a deeply personal decision. With philosophy I personally relive my joys with my late grandma, for instance. However, it is still essential to be aware of the potential consequences before venturing into the unknown.
While illusions may provide comfort and meaning, a deeper exploration can lead to a profound disillusionment, as the gems we attain, pale in comparison to the void.
The strength to navigate this treacherous path is a rare commodity. For the rewards to be immeasurable, one must improve their power within.
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