The philosophy that brought me back to life: effectivism 101

Summary

The video explores the philosophy of 'Effectivism,' a mode of being that contrasts the subjective and objective views of value. The speaker delves into the concept of existence, suggesting that we are not merely defined by what we do but by our preferences, drives, and the actions we take. The philosophy challenges the notion of autotelic individualism, proposing instead that we exist for a higher purpose beyond ourselves. Effectivism emphasizes understanding how our aims and actions contribute to a broader, autotelic structure of reality, urging us to focus on what truly matters for the sake of a greater cause.

Takeaways

• 😀 Effectivism is a potent philosophy or mode of being that requires active participation and deep introspection to understand and apply.
• 😀 The philosophy of Effectivism challenges the notion that we are simply our bodies, brains, or atoms, urging us to consider what we truly are.
• 😀 The central idea of Effectivism is the focus on *choosing*—that we are defined by our ability to make choices, which reveals the core of human existence.
• 😀 The subjective view of the good (moral relativism) and the objective view of the good (a fixed ideal) both have limitations. Effectivism transcends these by proposing that the value of actions is not intrinsic or extrinsic but a part of a larger context.
• 😀 Effectivism warns against the mistaken belief that humans exist purely for their own sake (autotelic); instead, we exist to bring about something else, which is more aligned with heterotelic aims.
• 😀 The concept of 'heterotic' vs. 'autotelic' actions—heterotic actions aim at external goals, while autotelic actions have intrinsic value and are done for their own sake.
• 😀 The philosophy argues that human actions (heterotic actions) should be driven by the ultimate autotelic aim—the core purpose of existence that transcends individual desires and needs.
• 😀 Effectivism critiques the tendency in modern thought to focus on preserving self and individual life without recognizing that humans are means to a higher, autotelic purpose, beyond their personal survival.
• 😀 We are a mixture of will, preferences, and drives—essentially the arrow, the bow, and the archer—all of which must aim effectively to lead a purposeful life.
• 😀 The central principle of Effectivism is to embrace the idea that activities precede actors, meaning that our actions should be motivated by the purpose they serve in a greater context, not just for personal gain.

Q & A

What is 'effectivism' as described in the script?

Effectivism is a philosophy or mode of being that aims to align one's actions with a higher purpose or drive, transcending subjective and objective views of good. It emphasizes active participation in life, where actions and values must be examined and understood deeply to create meaningful existence.

What is the difference between subjective and objective views of the good?

The subjective view of the good posits that the sense of goodness is driven by individual drives and preferences, leading to moral relativism. The objective view, however, asserts that the good exists independently and calls individuals to act toward it, often creating conflicts and distortions in how we relate to the world.

What does the script mean by 'Essence precedes existence' and 'Existence precedes essence'?

'Essence precedes existence' is the belief that the good exists before individuals and calls them to act toward it. In contrast, 'Existence precedes essence' suggests that individuals are driven by their inherent drives and experiences, which form their subjective sense of good, and their actions are not necessarily aimed at an external good but are driven by internal preferences and needs.

How does 'effectivism' challenge the concept of a 'subjective good'?

'Effectivism' challenges the subjective good by positing that while personal drives motivate action, they are ultimately directed toward a higher, autotelic purpose that transcends individual desires. This allows for a deeper understanding of value beyond subjective preferences.

What is the role of choice in 'effectivism'?

'Effectivism' views choice as central to human nature, asserting that individuals are not defined by their actions alone, but by the choices they make. Choice is a means of aligning oneself with deeper values and aims, and it is through these choices that individuals create meaning and purpose in life.

What is meant by 'autotelic' and 'heterotelic' actions?

Autotelic actions are those performed for their own sake, where the activity is intrinsically valuable (e.g., listening to music). Heterotelic actions, on the other hand, are performed for the sake of achieving an external goal, such as working to earn money. 'Effectivism' stresses the importance of recognizing the value of autotelic actions in order to create a fulfilling life.

How does 'effectivism' relate to the concept of the self?

'Effectivism' proposes that individuals are not just the will or the body, but are composed of preferences and drives as well. It challenges the notion that the self is a static, autonomous entity, suggesting instead that the self is a dynamic force shaped by actions, choices, and aims.

What is the 'autotelic substance' referred to in the script?

The 'autotelic substance' refers to the fundamental quality of existence that transcends the individual and subjective/objective distinctions. It represents the core purpose or value that is inherent in existence itself, not dependent on external aims but existing for its own sake.

How does 'effectivism' view the tension between personal desires and higher aims?

'Effectivism' suggests that personal desires and preferences are not inherently bad, but they must be subordinated to higher aims or purposes. The ultimate goal is to act in ways that contribute to the greater good or universal purpose, making the individual a part of a larger cosmic balance.

What is the 'inversion' that 'effectivism' invites individuals to undergo?

The inversion is a shift in perspective from seeing oneself as an autotelic individual (existing for one's own sake) to understanding oneself as heterotelic, existing for the sake of a higher, autotelic purpose. This shift allows individuals to transcend existential crises and align more harmoniously with the structure of reality.