Alan Watts: 'What the devil is the point of surviving, going on living, when it's a drag? But you see, that's what people do.'

What the devil is the point of surviving, going on living, when it's a drag? But you see, that's what people do.

In his thought-provoking quote, Alan Watts raises a profound question about the purpose of survival and the seemingly paradoxical behavior of humanity. He ponders, "What the devil is the point of surviving, going on living, when it's a drag? But you see, that's what people do." At first glance, one might interpret this quote as expressing a sentiment of hopelessness or discontentment with the struggles of life. However, delving deeper, this quote provides an opportunity to explore a fascinating philosophical concept known as existentialism.Existentialism suggests that human existence is inherently devoid of any predetermined meaning or purpose. It places immense emphasis on individual freedom, responsibility, and subjective experience. When considering the quote by Alan Watts through this lens, it can be seen as touching upon the existentialistic dilemma that humans face. We often find ourselves living lives that we perceive as burdensome or mundane, yet we continue to persevere and survive.The significance of this quote lies in its ability to stir introspection about the motivations behind human behavior. Why do we persist in existing despite the challenges we may face? Is it merely a result of societal pressures, the fear of the unknown, or an inherent drive to find meaning in life? These questions lead us to ponder the very essence of our existence and search for answers that resonate with our individual beliefs and values.One way to approach this existentialistic inquiry is through the comparison and contrast of different philosophical perspectives. For instance, existentialism stands in contrast to religious or spiritual beliefs that propose a divine purpose or a higher power guiding human lives. While existentialism argues for personal accountability and meaning creation, religious frameworks often suggest that survival and perseverance are driven by faith and the pursuit of an eternal reward.Similarly, the concept of hedonism provides an interesting juxtaposition to the quote by Alan Watts. Hedonism argues that the ultimate goal of life is the pursuit of pleasure and the avoidance of pain. In this regard, if survival were a drag or devoid of pleasure, one might argue that continuing to exist serves no purpose. However, hedonistic principles would argue that individuals should actively seek out moments of joy and fulfillment, possibly even changing their circumstances if necessary.By introducing unexpected philosophical concepts and engaging in comparative analysis, we expand our understanding of the quote and its implications. This approach encourages us to critically examine our motivations for survival and reflect on whether we are merely drifting through life or actively seeking to create a sense of purpose and fulfillment. Exploring the depths of philosophical inquiry helps us uncover the complexity of human nature and the various paths by which we seek meaning and satisfaction.In conclusion, Alan Watts' quote serves as a catalyst for philosophical contemplation on the purpose of survival in the face of life's challenges. Through a lens of existentialism, we navigate the complexities of human existence, exposing the tension between perseverance in the face of adversity and the quest for personal satisfaction. By juxtaposing this philosophical concept with contrasting ideas such as religion or hedonism, we gain a broader perspective on the inherent duality of human nature. Ultimately, this quote invites us to delve into the depths of our being and discover our own answers to the eternal question of why we continue to survive and live even when life becomes a drag.