True Happiness (excerpt from Guidelights)
At first glance, the human psyche seems to possess two distinct and very
different dimensions, the rational and the emotional. On closer examination,
however, the rational mind and emotions can be seen to be two aspects
of the same thing. The rational mind uses logic and values to work out
the steps needed to reach a goal. I believe that the ultimate goal
of the rational mind is to maximize happiness. Happiness, in conjunction
with its opposite unhappiness, provides the emotional foundation for the
psyche. Thus, the rational mind uses logic and values to works out
actions that are intended to fulfill emotional needs, bringing happiness.
Both are integral parts of a complex system.
In any logical system, there exist fundamental principles that are assumed
to be true and cannot be proven within the system. Kurt Godel, the German
mathematician, proved this supposition; it is known as Godel's theorem.
Fundamental principles cannot be logically proven within the system. They
are ultimate truths that must be externally provided. The test of whether
a prospective fundamental principle is true in a broader sense of the
word is whether it conforms to reality. In other words, is the system
(or organism) really governed by that principle? So what does this have
to do with the topic at hand? I have introduced the supposition
that the mind naturally seeks basic emotional fulfillment, and thereby
happiness. This fundamental statement cannot be proven. While you can
find guidance in the beliefs of others, only by looking inside yourself
can you ultimately determine whether it is true. All of this brings
up another critical point which is important to heed: If we are
to be truly happy and fulfilled emotionally, we must bring the desires
and values of the rational mind in line with our basic emotional needs.
We must be very wise about what will really bring us happiness.
© 2004 Kurt Venables
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