If we peel back the layers of complexity, we eventually reach the standard model of particle physics, which is our best description of the fundamental machinery of the universe. However, even though we know that reality seems to be like this, we do not know why.
Furthermore, this shut-up-and-calculate approach leaves many questions unanswered. Why is there a “spooky action at a distance”? How is gravity reconcilable with quantum field theory? What is dark matter? Dark energy? Why didn’t matter and antimatter cancel each other out? What is time? How did the universe come into existence? Is there are multiverse?
Many of the fundamental principles of the universe I live in are unexplained and perhaps will remain so forever.
At the most fundamental level, there is just quantum fluffy stuff. A weird place where everything is an excitation of the underlying force-particle field, and where time and space, energy and mass, waves and particles, something and nothing, and chance and determinism are all quite indistinguishable from each other.
At this most fundamental level of reality, everything is weird and makes little sense.
There seems to be mystery in this universe and the limits of quantum mechanics are the realm of spirituality. Why am I here? What is consciousness? And the most baffling question of all: Why is there something rather than nothing?
To me, logically, it makes little sense that anything exists. Therefore, similar to the existence and the core workings of the universe, the fact that I am alive is somewhat irrational. An irrational gift, that for some reason was just given to me – even though I have not the slightest idea why and probably never will.
I want to enjoy this gift for as long and as much as possible. I also want to contribute and make the world a better place. The prerequisite for this is being and staying a functional organism (vitality) for as long as possible (longevity).
Starting from first principles
All I know for certain is that my consciousness exists because all I have ever known and will ever know are the contents of my own mind. It also seems that I have free will. These two things (i.e., I exist + I appear to have free will) seem to be true – not from a scientific but from a subjective perspective.
I am also led to believe that my consciousness and its contents have a material origin (postulate). My consciousness seems to emerge from my brain, and its contents seem to be in part rooted in outside material phenomena that are more or less accurately transduced by my sensory organs.
Furthermore, the contents of my consciousness lead me to believe that other organisms exist, presumably with their own consciousness. Hence, given that I am seemingly not alone in this irrational universe, whatever I do, I must not hinder others from enjoying their own irrational gift. Bonus if I help others to enjoy theirs even more (hence, this website).
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From principles to goals
The mind (i.e., consciousness and its contents) is all I have. But the mind emerges from my brain, which depends on the function and health of its cells. These cells in turn rely on the collaboration, function, and health of the billions of other cells that constitute my body.
My own life experiences (N=1) have led me to conclude that the most important prerequisite for living a happy, fulfilling, and contributive life is to ensure the longevity and vitality of my body. I do not want to leave this up to chance. Luckily, I was born into existence at a time in which I can use the fruits of science to help with this.
Disclaimer
The content available on this website is based on the author’s individual research, opinions, and personal experiences. It is intended solely for informational and entertainment purposes and does not constitute medical advice. The author does not endorse the use of supplements, pharmaceutical drugs, or hormones without the direct oversight of a qualified physician. People should never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something they have read on the internet.