Daniel Burnham: 'Make big plans aim high in hope and work, remembering that a noble, logical diagram once recorded will not die.'

Make big plans aim high in hope and work, remembering that a noble, logical diagram once recorded will not die.

The quote by Daniel Burnham, "Make big plans aim high in hope and work, remembering that a noble, logical diagram once recorded will not die," encapsulates the significance of setting ambitious goals and the enduring power of ideas. In a straightforward interpretation, Burnham emphasizes the importance of dreaming big and having hope, coupled with the diligent effort required to turn those aspirations into reality. He even adds a reminder that documenting these plans in a well-thought-out way ensures their longevity.However, let us now introduce an unexpected philosophical concept to explore the quote from a different perspective: existentialism. Existentialism, a philosophical movement that emerged in the 20th century, contemplates the individual's freedom, responsibility, and existence in an indifferent universe. As we delve deeper into this juxtaposition, we can examine how the quote aligns with existentialist ideas, comparing and contrasting the philosophical backdrop against which Burnham's words resonate.Burnham's call to make big plans and aim high reflects existentialism's emphasis on individual agency and the freedom to choose one's path in life. Existentialists believe that we are responsible for creating our own meaning, and Burnham's quote encourages us to take charge of our aspirations and work tirelessly towards their realization. In this sense, individuals become architects of their lives and embark on a journey to shape their existence.Similarly, the notion of hope that Burnham implores us to embrace aligns with existentialist ideas of embracing uncertainty and finding purpose amid the absurdity of life. Existentialism encourages individuals to confront the inherent meaninglessness of the universe and overcome despair by finding value in the very act of pursuing our dreams. Burnham's words offer a glimmer of hope, reminding us that even in the face of adversity, our dreams and plans can motivate us to persist.On the other hand, the existentialist perspective challenges Burnham's assertion that a recorded diagram will not die. Existentialism posits that in the grand scheme of the universe, our existence is fleeting and ultimately insignificant. As existentialist philosophers like Jean-Paul Sartre argued, once we cease to exist, so does the meaning we assign to our plans and diagrams. From this standpoint, the transitory nature of life casts doubt on the long-lasting impact of our best-laid plans.However, returning to Burnham's quote, we can find a potential reconciliation between the existentialist skepticism and the notion of lasting ideas. While our individual existence may be transient, the ideas and inspiration we leave behind can endure beyond our lifetime. The quote invites us to consider that the noble, logical diagram itself possesses an inherent power - a power that can transcend mortality and inspire future generations to continue working towards monumental ambitions.In conclusion, Daniel Burnham's quote serves as a reminder of the significance of setting lofty goals, while also prompting us to contemplate our existence within an existentialist framework. While the existentialist perspective challenges the lasting impact of our plans and diagrams, it also underscores the intrinsic value of pursuing our dreams and finding solace in hope. Consequently, the quote encourages us not only to aspire to greatness but also to leave a legacy of ideas that can transcend our own lifespan and inspire future generations to dream, aim high, and tirelessly pursue their own architectural visions.