Iris Murdoch: 'We shall be better prepared for the future if we see how terrible, how doomed the present is.'

We shall be better prepared for the future if we see how terrible, how doomed the present is.

Iris Murdoch once famously said, "We shall be better prepared for the future if we see how terrible, how doomed the present is." At first glance, this quote may seem pessimistic or even disheartening. However, upon closer examination, Murdoch's words hold profound meaning and importance. Essentially, she suggests that by acknowledging the imperfections and challenges of our current circumstances, we gain a clearer understanding of what lies ahead. This quote encourages us to confront the harsh realities of the present in order to shape a brighter future.While the straightforward interpretation of Murdoch's quote is thought-provoking in itself, it is important to draw attention to an unexpected philosophical concept that further enhances the richness of her words. When contemplating the idea of a "doomed present," we are naturally led to explore the concept of existentialism. Existentialism is a philosophical belief that emphasizes human existence, freedom, and the absurdity of life. It invites individuals to confront the meaninglessness and loneliness of existence, ultimately paving the way for personal growth and self-actualization.In the context of Murdoch's quote, existentialism offers a fresh perspective on how we perceive the present and its implications for the future. Embracing an existential viewpoint allows us to see the inherent struggles within our current reality, acknowledging that they are not merely challenging but fundamentally integral to our existence. By recognizing the fragility and imperfection of the present, we can gain insights that enable us to navigate the future more discerningly.Contrasting the philosophical concept of existentialism with Murdoch's quote further deepens our understanding. While existentialism urges us to confront the absurdity of existence, Murdoch encourages us to confront the harshness and doom of the present. Their perspectives intertwine, as acknowledging the "terrible" aspects of our current state aligns with existentialism's emphasis on confronting the true nature of existence. In this sense, both perspectives invite us to look beyond comfort and confront the realities of life in order to find growth and meaning.Drawing parallels between Murdoch's quote and existentialism prompts us to ask ourselves: How can we apply this insightful perspective to our daily lives? One way to do so is by developing a heightened sense of self-awareness. By recognizing and embracing the imperfections of our current reality, we can gain deeper wisdom and understanding. This self-awareness allows us to make better decisions and be more prepared for what lies ahead. It empowers us to confront the challenges and confrontations of the present, transforming them into catalysts for growth and positive change.In essence, Iris Murdoch's quote serves as a poignant reminder to embrace the truth and challenges of our current circumstances in order to shape a better future. By adopting an existential perspective and exploring the deeper philosophical implications of her words, we come to appreciate the importance of self-awareness and personal growth. It is through acknowledging the flaws and difficulties of the present that we can better prepare ourselves for the unknown journey ahead. So, let us dare to confront the terrible and the doomed, for in doing so, we may just uncover hidden possibilities and chart a path towards a brighter and more fulfilling future.