In today's fast-paced world, busyness has become a pervasive and often celebrated aspect of our lives. We wear our packed schedules and overflowing to-do lists as badges of honor, equating busyness with success and importance. However, the renowned 19th-century Danish philosopher Sren Kierkegaard would have taken a radically different view. According to Kierkegaard, the incessant pursuit of busyness is not a mark of wisdom or virtue but rather a reflection of the absurdity of human existence. In this article, we will delve into Kierkegaard's unique perspective on why busy people are, in fact, ridiculous and how his philosophy provides a critical lens through which to examine our contemporary preoccupation with busyness.
The Absurdity of Relentless Activity
Kierkegaard believed that busyness epitomized the absurdity of human existence. Instead of confronting life's deeper questions and seeking meaning and fulfillment, the busy individual becomes trapped in a ceaseless cycle of activity. By perpetually engaging in tasks and distractions, they avoid confronting the existential emptiness and anxiety that are inherent to human life.
Moreover, Kierkegaard argued that busyness serves as a convenient escape from one's true self. In his seminal work, "The Sickness Unto Death," he explored the concept of despair and emphasized that authentic self-awareness could only be attained through introspection and reflection. However, the busy person, constantly preoccupied with external demands, neglects the necessary inner reflection that leads to genuine self-awareness. This evasion of self-exploration results in a shallow and unfulfilling existence, rendering the busy person ridiculous in their futile attempts to distract themselves from life's fundamental questions.
One of the driving forces behind our obsession with busyness, according to Kierkegaard, is the fear of boredom. In contemporary society, boredom is often viewed as something to be avoided at all costs. To escape its clutches, people fill their lives with an incessant flurry of activity. However, Kierkegaard saw boredom as an essential aspect of the human experience, one that can serve as a catalyst for profound self-discovery and personal growth.
In his work "Either/Or," Kierkegaard posited that rather than fearing boredom, we should embrace it. By embracing moments of boredom, individuals can delve into their inner thoughts and emotions, leading to a deeper understanding of themselves and their purpose in life. Unfortunately, the modern obsession with busyness has deprived many of this opportunity for introspection, perpetuating a superficial existence devoid of genuine meaning.
The Cult of Productivity
In today's society, productivity is highly esteemed and often equated with personal success. The busier one appears, the more productive and accomplished they seem to be. However, Kierkegaard questioned the true value of this relentless pursuit of productivity. He believed that genuine meaning and purpose in life could not be measured by external achievements or the sheer number of tasks completed, but rather by the authenticity of one's existence.
Kierkegaard argued that the modern cult of productivity often leads to spiritual emptiness. In the relentless pursuit of external success and efficiency, individuals sacrifice their inner lives and neglect their relationships. Consequently, they become disconnected from their own humanity and the richness of the human experience, rendering their obsession with productivity absurd and ultimately devoid of true significance.
The Loss of Contemplation and Spirituality
Kierkegaard bemoaned the loss of contemplation and spirituality in a world consumed by busyness. He believed that true fulfillment and understanding could only be attained through deep engagement with one's inner self and a genuine connection with the spiritual realm.
However, the busy person, trapped in a constant whirlwind of activity, fails to cultivate this essential aspect of their being. By neglecting introspection and spiritual reflection, they deprive themselves of the opportunity to explore their inner depths and connect with something greater than themselves. In doing so, they further contribute to the absurdity of their existence.
Ren Kierkegaard's critique of busyness offers a fresh perspective on our contemporary obsession with constant activity. He argues that busyness reflects the absurdity of human existence by avoiding deeper questions, perpetuating a fear of boredom, and sacrificing genuine self-awareness. By embracing moments of stillness, engaging in introspection, and nurturing our spiritual selves, we can break free from the cycle of busyness and embark on a path toward a more meaningful and authentic existence. In this reflection on Kierkegaard's philosophy, we are invited to reconsider the value we assign to busyness and explore the profound depths of our own being.
