Why do we do things we don’t want to do?

18 November 2023

Amidst the ancient columns of Athens, a Socratic symposium unfolded, exploring the perennial question: “Why do we do the things we don’t want to do?”

A voice resonated, asserting, “Survival is paramount! Our actions, even undesired ones, often stem from an innate drive to preserve ourselves.”

An impassioned philosopher argued, “Do we not share a duty to each other? A web of interconnected obligations that shape our actions, binding us in a social contract.”

A skeptic chimed in, declaring, “Are we not, at times, beyond redemption? The human spirit capable of acts both noble and reprehensible.”

Another pondered the symbiotic dance of human nature and culture, ranging from parasitical tendencies to the nurturing embrace of symbiosis. The balance of Yin and Yang was invoked, weaving ancient wisdom into the discourse.

Scientific minds delved into the challenges of plasticosis and the specter of terrorism in Fort Worth, grounding the conversation in the contemporary tapestry of global issues.

The heroic tale of Amon Carter Jr., a WWII POW, painted a vivid picture of resilience and sacrifice. The discussion meandered, embracing randomness, yet all agreed on the richness it brought to the dialogue.

Philosophical contemplation reached across time, exploring the transition from oral traditions to written laws. Woody Allen’s “Zelig” was cited, illustrating the human desire for conformity in the face of societal expectations.

A daring assertion emerged: “The information in a single NY Times Sunday paper surpasses what Abraham Lincoln had in his entire life.” Generational perspectives were unfurled, illustrating the vast differences in understanding at pivotal graduation years.

A poetic soul mused, “Writing is a vessel for time travel, a way to transcend epochs and commune with the wisdom of the ages.”

The dialogue turned to the evolution of AI, prompting existential queries. “Are we architects of the next dominant species? Will AI become our gods, reshaping the world as we once overcame the Titans?”

Amidst these profound questions, a skeptic queried, “Is this discourse a mere indulgence, or does it forge new frameworks of potential? Can we, as overthinkers, escape the fate of being the last of the hominids?”

As the symposium concluded, the olive groves whispered secrets of millennia-old conversations, leaving the philosophers to ponder the uncertain tapestry of humanity’s destiny.

Contributor: Poet Icarus