Kenneth More: 'Bader's philosophy was my philosophy. His whole attitude to life was mine.'

Bader's philosophy was my philosophy. His whole attitude to life was mine.

In the world of aviation, the name Douglas Bader is renowned for his extraordinary achievements and indomitable spirit. His story, filled with resilience and determination, has inspired many individuals, including the esteemed actor Kenneth More. More once stated that "Bader's philosophy was my philosophy. His whole attitude to life was mine." This profound quote encapsulates the meaning and importance of their shared outlook, as both Bader and More embraced a philosophy of resilience, perseverance, and living life to the fullest in the face of adversity.At first glance, this quote may appear to be a simple testament to the profound impact that Bader's life had on More. Their shared philosophy alludes to the challenges the two men faced and the manner in which they confronted those difficulties head-on. Bader, a World War II flying ace who lost both his legs in a crash, exemplified a never-give-up attitude and an unwavering determination to overcome obstacles. Similarly, More, known for his charismatic on-screen portrayals, also faced personal struggles throughout his life, including financial troubles and health issues. By declaring that Bader's philosophy was his own, More acknowledges the influence of Bader's resilience on his own approach to life.However, there is a deeper philosophical concept that can be derived from this quote: the notion of existentialism. Existentialism, characterized by the emphasis on individual freedom, personal responsibility, and the meaning of existence, offers an unexpected framework for understanding the parallel philosophies of Bader and More. Both men, in their own ways, grappled with the question of finding meaning in their lives amidst adversity.Bader's philosophy can be viewed through the lens of existentialism, as he triumphed not only on the battlefield but also in his personal life by refusing to let his physical disability define his existence. He embraced the belief that life's meaning is determined by one's actions and choices, a quintessential existentialist perspective. Bader's refusal to accept limitations and his relentless pursuit of his dreams, despite his physical condition, reflect the existentialist belief in the individual's ability to shape their own destiny.Likewise, More's identification with Bader's philosophy reveals his own existentialist leanings. As an actor, More sought to extract meaning from his performances and bring depth to his characters. He approached his craft with a sense of authenticity and passion, reflecting the existentialist understanding that the pursuit of personal fulfillment lies in one's chosen endeavors. In identifying with Bader's philosophy, More aligns himself with the idea that the true essence of life lies in the relentless pursuit of one's passions, regardless of the obstacles encountered along the way.The significance of this quote extends beyond the shared philosophies of Bader and More alone. It serves as a reminder of the human capacity to overcome adversity and find meaning in life, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges. Through their lived experiences, both Bader and More demonstrate the power of determination and resilience in shaping one's existence.In conclusion, Kenneth More's assertion that "Bader's philosophy was my philosophy. His whole attitude to life was mine" succinctly encapsulates the shared outlook and resilience of two remarkable individuals. Their common philosophy of perseverance, resilience, and living life to the fullest resonated deeply with one another, inspiring each to overcome personal challenges and embrace the pursuit of meaningful existence. Moreover, this quote offers an unexpected philosophical perspective by highlighting the existentialist underpinnings in both Bader and More's approaches to life. By finding meaning amidst adversity, they serve as examples of the boundless potential of human spirit and the remarkable capacity to shape one's own destiny.