Why Don't We Spend Much Time Thinking about Life?
Why, in our age of endless connectivity and rapid technological advancement, do we often overlook the significance of deep and meaningful reflection on our existence? There are several reasons we seldom take the time to ponder the profound implications of our lives.
Living in an Era of Mass Distraction
One of the primary reasons is the sheer abundance of distractions in our world today. In the past, engaging in a thoughtful activity like watching a film was a rare and significant event. In my childhood, I might catch about half a dozen movies in an entire year. Today, with the advent of streaming services, it's possible to consume a comparable number of films in a single day for an extended period.
Similarly, a phone call once indicated something of importance. Today, telemarketers and salespeople inundate us with unwanted calls, distracting us from the truly important matters.
The modern landscape is replete with a cacophony of notifications—text messages, news updates, special offers, video clips, and advertisements—each vying for our attention and, ultimately, our time. In this sea of stimuli, we find it increasingly difficult to focus on anything that requires sustained thought.
The Cost of Thinking
Thinking, in itself, is a cognitively expensive and demanding task. Our brains require significant energy to engage in complex mental processes. Moreover, when we think, we often question the status quo, challenge our assumptions, and uncover truths that may be uncomfortable or at odds with societal norms.
Unfortunately, this critical thinking brings us into conflict with the mechanism of evolution, which favors conformity and homogeneity. In prehistoric times, when dangers lurked around every corner, deviation could lead to immediate peril. However, in today's world, we inhabit a vastly different environment where such strategic thinking is essential.
In fact, the very public education system and broader societal constructs are designed to discourage independent thought. Schools often emphasize rote learning over critical analysis, fostering a culture where students are conditioned to avoid deep reflection.
Evolution Weeds Out Divergence
In the past, divergent thinking in a group of hunter-gatherers could mean the difference between survival and becoming the lion's meal. In ancient times, the ability to conform to social norms and group behaviors was a crucial survival trait. However, in the modern world, such conformity is less advantageous.
Our current societal landscape encourages us to strive, innovate, and seek better solutions. The ability to think critically and question the status quo is now more valuable than ever. In this regard, the world's rapid technological advancements and economic growth should foster a society that embraces divergent thinking.
The Pursuit of Happiness and Contentment
When we take the time to think, one of the primary drivers of this introspection is often our pursuit of happiness. Over the long term, as we reflect on our lives, we may gain insight into the steps we took to achieve happiness. Once we reach a state of sustained contentment, the need to think deeply about our lives fades.
When we are content, the act of thinking becomes a natural and necessary process. Understanding the factors that contribute to our fulfillment allows us to lead more fulfilling lives. Over time, this process becomes less of an active choice and more of a natural transition, culminating in a profound sense of liberation.
Ultimately, in this era of constant distraction and cognitive expense, we must recognize the value of thinking. By acknowledging the benefits of contemplation, we can foster a society that values independent thought and aligns with the evolving needs of the modern world.