Leon Tolstoy: 'Joy can only be real if people look upon their life as a service and have a definite object in life outside themselves and their personal happiness.'

Joy can only be real if people look upon their life as a service and have a definite object in life outside themselves and their personal happiness.

Summary: In his quote, Leo Tolstoy emphasizes the notion that genuine joy can only be achieved when individuals perceive their lives as a service and possess an external purpose beyond their personal happiness. This concept underscores the importance of selflessness and meaningful engagement with the world around us. However, delving deeper into the realm of philosophy, we can explore an unexpected yet thought-provoking concept: the philosophy of absurdism. By comparing and contrasting Tolstoy's perspective with absurdism, we can gain a fresh and intriguing insight into the nature of joy and the purpose of life.Tolstoy's quote resonates with many, as it challenges the prevailing notion that personal happiness is the ultimate goal in life. Instead, he argues that true joy arises from adopting a service-oriented mindset and having a definite purpose that extends beyond ourselves. By looking beyond our own needs and desires, we can find fulfillment in contributing to the well-being of others and the greater good of society.This perspective has timeless relevance in our modern world, where societal emphasis often leans toward individualistic pursuits. In a culture that prizes personal achievements and material possessions, Tolstoy's words encourage us to embrace a broader perspective. By dedicating our lives to service and striving for a greater purpose, we open ourselves up to a deeper sense of joy that transcends personal gratification.However, let us explore an alternative philosophical school of thought that may initially appear at odds with Tolstoy's beliefs: absurdism. Absurdism, championed by philosophers like Albert Camus, posits that life inherently lacks meaning, purpose, and logical explanations. According to absurdism, individuals are faced with a fundamental clash between their persistent search for meaning and the ultimate realization of life's inherent absurdity.At first glance, absurdism may seem completely contrary to Tolstoy's sentiments. If life is indeed absurdist, devoid of any ultimate meaning, then how can one find joy through service and pursuing a definite life goal? However, upon closer examination, we can find a harmonious coexistence between Tolstoy's perspective and absurdism.Absurdism recognizes the inherent meaninglessness, yet encourages individuals to create their own subjective sense of purpose and meaning in their lives. In this context, Tolstoy's call to view life as a service and seek a purpose beyond personal happiness aligns with absurdism's invitation to forge our own meaningful existence in the face of absurdity. By embracing a service-oriented approach and committing ourselves to something beyond personal gain, we can construct our own purpose amid life's seeming lack of intrinsic meaning.One might argue that the joy found within this self-constructed purpose and service is a response to life's absurdity. By engaging with the world and dedicating ourselves to something larger than ourselves, we can transcend the existential absurdity and find solace in the immense potential for creating meaning within our own lives.Ultimately, Tolstoy's viewpoint intersects with absurdism by acknowledging the human need for purpose and connection, while absurdism acknowledges the inherent lack of meaning in life. Together, they offer complementary perspectives that emphasize the importance of defining our own purpose, seeking joy through service, and finding fulfillment in the face of life's complexity and absurdity.In conclusion, Leo Tolstoy's quote teaches us the invaluable lesson that true joy stems from adopting a service-oriented mindset and having a purpose outside of our personal happiness. While this perspective appears contrary to the existential nihilism proposed by absurdism, a deeper exploration reveals their compatibility. By actively creating our own subjective purpose in an ultimately absurd world, we can discover joy through service and find meaning amid life's inherent lack thereof. Tolstoy's profound insight reminds us of the power in living a life devoted to something greater than ourselves, and the immeasurable joy found within such a journey.