Emile Durkheim: 'To pursue a goal which is by definition unattainable is to condemn oneself to a state of perpetual unhappiness.'

To pursue a goal which is by definition unattainable is to condemn oneself to a state of perpetual unhappiness.

In Emile Durkheim's famous quote, "To pursue a goal which is by definition unattainable is to condemn oneself to a state of perpetual unhappiness," he touches on a profound truth about human nature and the pursuit of happiness. At its core, this quote suggests that by relentlessly striving for something that is inherently impossible to achieve, individuals subject themselves to a never-ending cycle of discontentment. Durkheim's statement invites us to reflect on the futility of chasing unattainable goals and the detrimental impact it can have on our well-being.Durkheim's quote highlights the significance of setting realistic and achievable goals. It urges us to examine the nature of our aspirations and critically evaluate their feasibility. For instance, if we continually pursue unattainable dreams, such as attempting to acquire limitless wealth or never experiencing failure, we set ourselves up for disappointment and perpetual unhappiness. By acknowledging the limits and inherent realities of life, we can redirect our focus towards attainable objectives that contribute to our overall happiness and satisfaction.However, delving deeper into this topic, one can introduce an unexpected philosophical concept known as "The Paradox of Desire." This concept explores the intricate relationship between desire, fulfillment, and the human condition. The Paradox of Desire proposes that while desire inherently drives human action and motivates us to achieve our goals, it also generates a perpetual sense of discontentment. This philosophical concept adds a layer of complexity to Durkheim's quote, allowing us to examine why humans often find themselves constantly pursuing unattainable goals.The Paradox of Desire suggests that the pursuit of desires is a double-edged sword. On one hand, desire pushes us to strive for self-improvement, growth, and the fulfillment of our ambitions. It instills a sense of purpose and fuels our achievements. However, on the other hand, desire can become a source of dissatisfaction and perpetual longing. It can lead us to believe that happiness lies solely in the attainment of our desires, setting us up for disappointment when these goals remain out of reach.When we reflect on Durkheim's quote through the lens of the Paradox of Desire, we see a nuanced perspective emerge. While pursuing unattainable goals undoubtedly leads to perpetual unhappiness, it is important to recognize that desire itself is an intrinsic part of human nature. Rather than abandoning all desires and settling for mediocrity, we can approach this paradox with a more balanced mindset.To avoid falling into the trap of perpetual unhappiness, we must learn to embrace both the pursuit of our dreams and the acceptance of their limitations. By setting attainable goals that challenge us without overwhelming our potential for fulfillment, we can strike a delicate balance between desire and contentment. This approach entails aligning our aspirations with our values and understanding that true happiness stems not solely from the attainment of goals, but from the journey and growth we experience along the way.In conclusion, Emile Durkheim's quote offers valuable insights into the pursuit of happiness and the perils of fixating on unattainable goals. It reminds us of the importance of setting realistic objectives and highlights the perpetual unhappiness that accompanies the pursuit of unachievable dreams. By introducing the philosophical concept of the Paradox of Desire, we deepen our understanding of the complexities surrounding desire and fulfillment. Ultimately, finding a balance between ambition and contentment allows us to navigate the intricate path toward true happiness and fulfillment.