Purpose and Meaning

“The more the universe seems comprehensible,
the more it also seems pointless.”
Steven Weinberg

“Life is a coral reef.
We each leave behind the best, the strongest
deposit we can so that the reef can grow.
But what’s important is the reef.”
Ursula Goodenough
(quoting her father)

Life, at times, can seem pointless. Hard work may come to nothing and, even if goals are reached, results may only last for a while. We may ask, “Why bother?” “Why care?” and find it hard to pick a direction or try. And, beyond personal concerns, questions can extend to the meaning of life or of the purpose of the cosmos overall.

As is discussed in links, below, these types of questions have been addressed by religions, and may be considered by religious naturalists:

What is the purpose of life?
     (Why are we here? What should we do?)

How can I find a sense of meaning in my life?
     (What might we care about and work toward,)
     and how might we look at what we do?)

Brian Swimme: A response to a student who asked “What’s the meaning of life?”

Why do we ask these types of questions?  

Cartoon: Don Addis

Religious Naturalism

Taking Nature to Heart

A worldview grounded in science that provides a foundation for a way of being in the world that is both inspiring and  personally rewarding.