Successor site to the Philosophy of Happiness blog (http://philoshap.blogspot.com/) that supported PHIL 3160 at MTSU, 2011-2019. The course returns Fall 2025.
PHIL 3160 – Philosophy of Happiness
What is it, how can we best pursue it, why should we? Supporting the study of these and related questions at Middle Tennessee State University and beyond. "Examining the concept of human happiness and its application in everyday living as discussed since antiquity by philosophers, psychologists, writers, spiritual leaders, and contributors to pop culture."
Thursday, October 7, 2021
Marx the Epicurean
“Surround yourself with people who make you happy. People who make you laugh, who help you when you’re in need. People who genuinely care. They are the ones worth keeping in your life. Everyone else is just passing through.”― Karl Marx
While I disagree with the man on more things than I can count, it doesn’t mean he has wisdom in some of his words. I think that he’s correct in saying that our main focus should be given to those that are the closest to us. Others, such as business partners and acquaintances, are temporary alliances that often dissipate once the goal has been achieved. With that being said, and I do believe Marx would agree, that does not mean that you can’t find a new friend or even a spouse in the new people that you meet. It doesn’t mean that those business partners and acquaintances cannot become something greater. Even with this granted, the message of the quote is not harmed, however.
I would counter this and ask each and every one of us to make a difference in those who might seem miserable. Then, we could be happy while we make others happier.
It is virtuous to live a life with the intention of helping the weak and misfortunate, but I don't think the quote is negating that pursuit. I believe it is communicating one aspect of happiness whereas it concerns deeper relationships. That pursuit is one we all struggle with and his sentiment on genuine care for someone else is a great way to put the right people around you.
While I disagree with the man on more things than I can count, it doesn’t mean he has wisdom in some of his words. I think that he’s correct in saying that our main focus should be given to those that are the closest to us. Others, such as business partners and acquaintances, are temporary alliances that often dissipate once the goal has been achieved. With that being said, and I do believe Marx would agree, that does not mean that you can’t find a new friend or even a spouse in the new people that you meet. It doesn’t mean that those business partners and acquaintances cannot become something greater. Even with this granted, the message of the quote is not harmed, however.
ReplyDeleteI would counter this and ask each and every one of us to make a difference in those who might seem miserable. Then, we could be happy while we make others happier.
ReplyDeleteIt is virtuous to live a life with the intention of helping the weak and misfortunate, but I don't think the quote is negating that pursuit. I believe it is communicating one aspect of happiness whereas it concerns deeper relationships. That pursuit is one we all struggle with and his sentiment on genuine care for someone else is a great way to put the right people around you.
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