Charlotte Perkins Gilman: 'The first duty of a human being is to assume the right functional relationship to society - more briefly, to find your real job, and do it.'

The first duty of a human being is to assume the right functional relationship to society - more briefly, to find your real job, and do it.

In her insightful quote, Charlotte Perkins Gilman encapsulates the essence of our existence as human beings. She asserts that our primary duty is to establish a harmonious and meaningful connection with society by identifying our true purpose and wholeheartedly pursuing it. Essentially, Gilman posits that finding our real job, our true calling, is not just a personal quest for fulfillment, but a responsibility we owe to society. This notion challenges us to navigate the intricate landscape of self-discovery and introspection, ultimately ensuring that we contribute our unique skills and talents towards the progression of our communities.At first glance, this quote may seem like a straightforward call to align our expertise with societal needs. It encourages us to reflect on our passions, skills, and talents, and to seek careers and roles that allow us to make meaningful contributions. By actively engaging in work that aligns with our innate abilities, we not only find personal satisfaction and contentment but also serve society in the most effective and impactful way possible. In this aspect, Gilman's quote resonates with conventional ideas of individual success and societal progress.However, upon deeper reflection, another layer of philosophical complexity emerges from Gilman's words. By emphasizing the importance of "functional relationship" with society, she implies that our purpose goes beyond mere occupation or profession. It transcends the traditional understanding of a job as a means of earning a livelihood. Instead, Gilman presents us with the notion that our true calling is intertwined with the well-being and flourishing of society as a whole. It suggests that finding our "real job" involves not only discovering our individual passions and strengths but also connecting these with the greater societal context.This philosophical concept challenges the prevailing narrative that separates personal aspirations from communal welfare. It urges us to question the cultural constructs that perpetuate the idea of pursuing individual goals at the expense of collective needs. Gilman's quote reflects an alternative perspective that suggests a symbiotic relationship between personal fulfillment and societal progress. In finding our real job and assuming the right functional relationship to society, we not only thrive as individuals but also contribute to the greater good.To illustrate this idea further, let's consider an example. Imagine an artist who has always been passionate about creating thought-provoking pieces that challenge societal norms. By dedicating their life to their artistic pursuit, they bring attention to critical issues and inspire dialogue and transformation. In doing so, the artist not only finds personal fulfillment but also creates a space for collective introspection and growth. Their real job extends beyond their artistic abilities; it encompasses their role in sparking social change and shaping the world around them. This example demonstrates how finding one's true purpose can have a profound impact on both personal and societal levels.In conclusion, Charlotte Perkins Gilman's quote compels us to delve into the depths of self-discovery and align our innate talents and passions with the needs of society. It goes beyond the conventional understanding of a job as a means of personal success and highlights the importance of assuming a functional relationship with society. By finding our real job, we not only fulfill our own desires for purpose and satisfaction but also contribute to the betterment of the communities we belong to. This philosophical concept challenges us to reevaluate the traditional dichotomy between personal aspirations and communal welfare, inviting us to embrace a more holistic and integrated approach to our roles in society.