As the only self-conscious beings, humans have the unique position of questioning, and ultimately defining, reality for ourselves. We construct different levels of reality to the point that some, such as emotional reality, exist entirely in a realm within our own minds. It is this self-awareness that separates us from all other life, yet at the same time reinforces the complete isolation only a sentient could know. Perhaps this is why, above all others, the question of our purpose is universal, essential, and eternal. Literature has proved to be a useful barometer for capturing the prevailing public sentiment of the day toward this existential dilemma. As such, we will study three literary works (Candide, The Metamorphosis, and The Death of Ivan Ilyich) , and the respective context of each, in hopes of finding, if not an answer, at least a better understanding of man's changed perception towards our place over time.
Voltaire's Candide is a satire against some aspects of the popular movement of his day, the Enlightenment. According to this view, the world, and consequently man's purpose in it, is a vast, infinitely complex machine whose design can be deciphered by God alone. In response, we have a choice: accept faith in God without question, or search for underlying truth through reason to expose the corruption that distorts reality. Voltaire clearly favors logical reasoning as he uses a playful tone to poke fun at the inconsistencies in assuming our existence is beyond our comprehension. The foolishly optimistic Pangloss is a composite representation of the "blind faith" contingent - those who refuse to probe the uncomfortable questions in lei of fatalistic acceptance of man's inferiority. By denying our inquisitive nature, Voltaire suggests, we refuse the very gift which sets man apart from nature. We invite delusion of reality by numbing our instinct to contemplate anything that remains unanswered.
Belonging is a basic need and we all need to belong in some way. ... Therefore belonging is a basic need and we all need to belong. ... Therefore it clearly shows that belonging is a basic need and we all need to belong in some way. ... Hence why belonging is a basic need and we all need and we all need to belong. ... Thus why belonging is a basic need and we all need to belong in some way....
Such relationships also have the ability to rob them of individuality however, often causing changes in identity after altering personal beliefs and desires in pursuit of the natural human need to belong. ... Connections can force a decision between retaining the things which make up one's identity; their beliefs and desires, or succumbing to the human need to belong, where choosing the former can result in alienation and isolation, however choosing the latter can result in a loss of individuality and sense of self by conforming to the beliefs and desires of others. ... " I'm a...
Belonging is a complex/multifaceted and universal concept so deeply rooted in the human psyche that our fulfillment depends on our connection to people and place. Throughout our lives, everyone faces the need to belong and so straddles the dichotomous nature of belonging encompassing (surrounding) acceptance and alienation. ... Thereby, Skyrnecki concludes that cultural connections are imperative (important) in creating a sense of belonging, shown by the metonymy (metaphor) "Nationalities sought each other out instinctively," stressing the need for acceptance as a response to the ...
An individual's perception of belonging is closely related to their interactions with others and the world around them, and depending on their experiences, may enrich or limit their sense of belonging. ... Paul Keating's "Redfern Speech" reflects on the impact of the exclusion of Indigenous Australians, thus stressing the need for the acceptance and recognition of their culture. Keating promotes the need for self-reflection in the personification," Australia once reached out for us "demonstrates that one's perception of acceptance and inclusion is linked intrinsically to a stron...
People feel a need to belong because it is a fundamental part of one's sense being needed, and allows for one to feel accepted. Feelings of pain and confusion can arise if that need is not satisfied, as shown in the song "Somewhere I Belong.... " The father does not need to belong to anyone but he and his homeland, and feeling of foreignness are erased as he feels at home in his garden. ... This negativity is connected to his sense of belonging, and he feels the need to be a part of something, whether it is a relationship or a community. ... Without belonging, pain and confusi...
The experience of belonging spans a multitude of perceptions and connections for humans. ... Belonging is a like 'place' where someone feels accepted, valued and safe. ... They belong nowhere. ... Their belonging had been happy and whole; due to war and racism, they were left with no choice and were stripped of any pleasure or safety that belonging brings. These three texts clearly present contrasting aspects of cultural conflict faced by real human beings in their need to belong....
As one of the most representative social animals, human beings keep seeking for their identity and belonging throughout their lives. ... After all, barriers in society and groups may prevent individuals from belonging but they can be overwhelmed as well. ... During this time she has no need to worry about her belonging since she already belongs to this warm family. ... These racial barriers raise her doubt if she still belong to the white community, or even her family. This is the first time she nearly loses her belonging as a child with immature cognition. ...
If people's ability to express their need for contact with each other is hindered by poverty: a majority of the citizens won't be able to voice their opinions and have their needs fulfilled. ... The article describes the social isolation as "state in which the individual or group expresses a need or a desire for contact with others but unable to make contact ". ... Overall the participants had mean of 7.26/10 with responding positively to the sense of belonging. ... The participants above the LICO reported a sense of belonging that is 2.36 times higher than for those below LICO. .....
