Respone to Baggini

Baggini states, "We are aesthetic beings in that we experience the world through our senses, in the here and now" (p. 30). The problem with this is that the present can be so unsatisfying simply because it is so temporary. Kierkegaard's analysis of the human condition illuminates the problem of the goal-oriented life relative to aesthetic nature. This problem is further illustrated by the quote provided in our exam. Moments expire and so if life's purpose is tied to moments, life's purpose must also slip away. Baggini explores and responds by questioning, does it really end up being this way?

Baggini uses the Ð''why/because' series as a principle. A realistic way to look at things I'd say. The final Ð''why' question is terminated with a Ð''because' answer "for which a further Ð''why' question is unnecessary, misguided or nonsensical" (p. 38). So although such moments can play a part in finding a purpose which is truly fulfilling, we also need to find a way of living which is worthwhile in itself.

It is worthwhile when our life-plan has reached the point where the response to the Ð''why' question is Ð''why not?' If one has attained a sustainable state of affairs then the situation is plausible. The answer is no longer an event that leads to another that ultimately is lost in time. What began as justified life choices, eventually led to the present well-being; the final outcome.

The person who forfeits much of life's enjoyment in order to reach this final outcome has placed him/herself in a vulnerable position. Baggini points out, "being wealthy may make life a bit better but not so much better that is worth sacrificing years of one's life to work for" (p. 34). It seems like there is much to lose. Even personal relationships are endangered. If the life-plan is to become wealthy and one is not careful, then consequences are pretty much inevitable. There have been many marriages or partnerships put in jeopardy because one partner is striving obsessively to fulfill their own life-plan and in doing so neglects to provide the attention needed for anything other than that.

There is also the risk that the future planned for will never come. If we assume we will live to see the day our life's purpose is complete, we expect life will be good. That really is