The Mattering Instinct: Why Humans Long to Matter
The most unique thing about human beings is this: We are creatures who long to matter. This assertion comes from Rebecca Newberger Goldstein, a distinguished philosopher and author known for her exploration of philosophical themes. In her latest work, The Mattering Instinct, Goldstein offers profound insights into why humans obsess over finding meaning in life.
Goldstein’s exploration begins with an intriguing concept rooted in the laws of physics—the law of entropy. This law posits that everything naturally tends toward disorder over time. Biological organisms, including humans, expend immense energy to resist this tendency and survive. However, Goldstein points out that humans possess a unique capacity for self-reflection, which leads us to fixate on our personal thriving rather than the thriving of others. This self-focused attention breeds a compelling need for justification.
The Mattering Instinct Explained
According to Goldstein, this need for self-justification has birthed what she terms the “mattering instinct.” This instinct drives individuals to pursue “mattering projects” that imbue their lives with a sense of purpose. Goldstein outlines four main ways people endeavor to achieve this sense of mattering:
- Transcenders: Individuals who seek to matter to a transcendent presence, such as God.
- Socializers: Those who derive meaning from helping and connecting with others.
- Heroic Strivers: People who aim for excellence in their chosen fields, whether intellectual, artistic, athletic, or moral.
- Competitors: Those who focus on standing out and mattering more than others.
In her recent advice column, Goldstein’s “mattering map” serves as a practical tool for individuals anxious about the potential of AI replacing their careers. By identifying which category resonates with their sense of purpose, readers can explore alternative paths that align with their mattering instinct.
Human Dignity in the Age of Automation
Goldstein’s thoughts on automation and job displacement raise significant questions about human dignity and the essence of mattering. During a follow-up discussion, she articulated her concerns and optimism regarding the interplay between AI and our humanity. She expressed that while AI might automate mundane tasks, it cannot replace the deep, ethical engagement required for truly human dilemmas.
“What I’m thinking in my most optimistic moments is that the deepest questions still belong to us,” Goldstein suggested, emphasizing that the philosophical and existential quandaries that define our humanity cannot be resolved by machines.
Finding Meaning Beyond Work
Goldstein acknowledged that not everyone derives their sense of purpose from their careers. Encouraging a broader perspective, she invited readers to explore varied sources of mattering, stressing that this instinct is influenced by individual temperament, passions, and interests. “I want to be a pluralist about this,” she noted, recognizing the rich diversity of human experiences and motivations.
As Goldstein reflects on the complexity of human existence, she acknowledges that the search for meaning can often feel burdensome, likening it to a limp that characterizes our journey. However, this struggle also serves as a testament to our dignity and resilience as a species.
In closing, Goldstein’s insights remind us that, even amidst the challenges of modernity, our instinct to matter is a vital aspect of our humanity. As we navigate a rapidly changing world, recognizing and nurturing this instinct will be essential for finding fulfillment and purpose.
For more on Rebecca Newberger Goldstein’s thoughts on the mattering instinct and its implications, click Here.
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