Why Passivity Breeds Mediocrity and Mental Illness | Academy of Ideas
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updated 20 Aug 2023
The question of how individuals utilize their leisure time in a modern civilization, which has freed many from the struggles of survival, becomes a pressing concern. The human need for challenge and external stimuli is explored as a response to the potential pitfalls of idleness and passivity. The transition from a history of toil to the modern era of leisure is examined, with the rise of the industrial revolution offering both newfound free time and the critical inquiry of how it should be employed. The influence of passivity on mental well-being is examined, particularly through the observations of the 20th-century philosopher Colin Wilson, and the possibility of cultivating pride and worth through creativity is presented as an alternative approach.
The modern problem of leisure emerges as individuals have historically created civilization to secure themselves, yet the purpose of security and leisure itself is questioned.
The need for challenge and external stimulus is noted as a means to avoid stagnation and mental detachment.
Leisure was a rarity throughout human history, with the majority engaging in toil for survival.
The industrial revolution and division of labor led to a leisure revolution, providing scheduled free time.
The fundamental question arises: What should individuals do with their newfound free time?
Many tend to default to passive and conforming leisure activities, failing to contemplate how their leisure can be used for personal growth.
The common pattern of passive pursuits, idle talk, and repetition leads to a plodding existence with limited aspirations.
Passivity's connection to mental illness, particularly depression, is noted through philosopher Richard Taylor's observations.
Passivity and lack of engagement trigger depressive moods and pessimism.
An alternative option involves utilizing free time for creativity, exploration, learning, challenges, and self-improvement.
Colin Wilson's realization that passivity induced depressive bouts emphasizes the importance of engaging activities.
The idle mind is seen as fertile ground for negative influences and mental unrest.
Striving for creativity requires perseverance, effort, and short-term sacrifices, leading to mental health and personal growth.
The connection between passivity and depression may not apply to all, but cultivating creativity remains valuable for personal pride.
Richard Taylor argues that the struggle to produce and create enhances the possibility of attaining justified self-love, or pride.
True pride involves justified self-love based on cultivating exceptional skills or virtues.
Modern confusion between equal rights and equal worth clouds the distinction between individuals' worth and their rights.
Ancient Greeks recognized that few individuals stand out through uncommon virtues, skills, or paths.
These "superior ones" achieve a self-love untainted by false pretenses.
Utilizing leisure for passive activities might diminish self-worth and hinder the potential for self-love and pride.
The choice to be creative and original, regardless of external recognition, reflects the essence of being human.
Pursuing something exceptional justifies the self-love associated with genuine pride.
Most people have the power to be creative, but many are content with superficial pleasures, rather than striving for originality.
Engaging in truly original work, regardless of external approval, justifies the self-love that is pride.