Pierre Teilhard de Chardin: 'Being happy is a matter of personal taste.'

Being happy is a matter of personal taste.

Being happy is a matter of personal taste." This quote by Pierre Teilhard de Chardin holds profound meaning and carries great importance in our lives. At its core, it suggests that happiness is subjective and unique to each individual, implying that what brings joy to one person may not necessarily have the same effect on another. In a world where happiness is often sought externally, this quote reminds us to look inward and embrace our individual preferences and desires as the key to our happiness.However, let's take a moment to introduce an unexpected philosophical concept that adds intrigue and depth to the discussion of happiness. The concept of existentialism, pioneered by thinkers like Jean-Paul Sartre and Albert Camus, explores the idea that our existence precedes our essence. In other words, we are responsible for creating our own meaning and purpose in life. This concept is in stark contrast to Chardin's quote, as it challenges the notion of happiness being solely a matter of personal taste.Existentialism suggests that happiness goes beyond personal taste, as it involves a deeper existential search for meaning and fulfillment. While personal taste certainly plays a role in our overall happiness, existentialists argue that true happiness stems from living an authentic life aligned with our unique values and passions, rather than purely seeking pleasure or catering to our preferences.In light of this contrasting perspective, we can delve deeper into the complexity of happiness and its relationship to personal taste. It is true that personal taste influences our happiness to a significant degree. For example, someone may find great joy in indulging in their favorite cuisine or engaging in their preferred hobbies. These activities cater to their personal taste and bring about a sense of fulfillment and contentment. Hence, personal taste undeniably plays a crucial role in our individual happiness and life satisfaction.However, existentialism invites us to explore a more profound and nuanced understanding of happiness. It suggests that true happiness is not solely dependent on personal preferences but also on the alignment of our actions and choices with our authentic selves. It challenges us to question whether seeking happiness based solely on personal taste may merely satisfy surface-level desires, even if those desires are satisfying at a given moment.When we embrace an existential outlook, we begin to inquire about the deeper meaning behind our choices and actions. We question whether our pursuit of happiness is aligned with our values and ideals, whether it contributes to the betterment of ourselves and the world around us. This perspective encourages us to cultivate a sense of purpose, to engage in activities that have long-lasting significance and impact, beyond the immediate gratification of personal taste.Ultimately, the interplay between personal taste and existential fulfillment is an individual journey that each of us must navigate. While personal taste undoubtedly influences our happiness, we must also consider the profound sense of fulfillment that comes from living an aligned and meaningful life. By integrating these perspectives, we can strike a balance that honors both our unique preferences and our existential yearning for purpose and significance.In conclusion, Pierre Teilhard de Chardin's quote, "Being happy is a matter of personal taste," captures the individuality and subjectivity of happiness. Personal taste certainly contributes significantly to our happiness, allowing us to indulge in activities and experiences that bring us joy. However, when juxtaposed with the philosophical concept of existentialism, we are reminded that happiness goes beyond mere personal preferences. True happiness, according to existentialism, lies in living an authentic and purposeful life that aligns with our values and ideals. By understanding and embracing this interplay, we can embark on a journey of self-discovery and fulfillment that harmonizes both personal taste and existential satisfaction.