Notes from the Wired

Do Animals have Belief Info This is a highly interesting article. Unfortunately, I have less time than usual, so I’ll keep it brief, but I highly recommend reading the original. The author’s conclusion is similar to Heidegger’s concept of Dasein; for example, the meaning of words like belief only makes sense within a certain mode of existence.

Philosophical Ramblings #08: What to value? It follows a simple argument about what I think is a good idea to value (I’m deliberately avoiding the words should or ought): From Heidegger, we learn that all purpose and meaning depend on Dasein: that is, our lived experience as human beings in the world. From Sartre and Heidegger, we learn that Dasein expresses itself through authenticity: the degree to which a person’s actions align with their values and desires, despite external pressures. I also believe in long-range voluntary control: the idea that we can shape our beliefs by deliberately exposing ourselves to certain ideas or values over a long period of time. From the Stoic principle of control, we learn that the only thing truly in our control is how we respond to situations, that is our character or virtue. Everything else, health, wealth, reputation, is subject to luck and external forces. From these points, the following conclusions emerge: From (1), value is not objective but grounded in lived, subjective experience. From (2), our values are made real through authenticity, by living in alignment with them. From (3), some values can be intentionally chosen through long-term engagement. From (4), virtue is the only value that lies fully within our control. Therefore, if I want to live the best possible life, not one based on chance or unstable externals, I should value something I can reliably attain. Since virtue is the only thing entirely in my control (per (4)), it becomes the most stable foundation for living well. By choosing (per (1) and (3)) to value virtue, I maximize my chances of fulfillment and stability. This is expressed through authenticity: by living and embodying this value openly and without hiding (per (2)).

Philosophical Ramblings #07: Pain, Consciousnessand the Value of Animals In light of recent articles — The Eiffel Tower is NOT in Paris! and Philosophical Ramblings #06: Heidegger, Beliefs and Choosing One’s Values — I want to add an addendum to What is a person? Or when is a person? and Killing Dream People!. In the former article, I proposed a definition of personhood i.e. being a moral agent, where “personhood” or “moral agent” is shorthand for “something deserving moral consideration”, as the capability to deploy human consciousness. In the latter article, I critiqued alternative definitions of personhood and what it means to deserve moral consideration.