Lebensphilosophie

“The human being is not a finished product, but a process, a becoming.” — Wilhelm Dilthey

Lebensphilosophie, or philosophy of life, is a term that describes a movement of thought that emerged in Germany and France in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

It was a reaction to the dominance of rationalism, positivism, and materialism in philosophy and science, which were seen as inadequate to capture the richness and dynamism of human experience.

Lebensphilosophie emphasised the meaning, value, and purpose of life as the main focus of philosophy, and argued that life can only be understood from within, by intuition, instinct, and will, rather than by abstract concepts and logic.

In essence, to live is to experience.

Some of the most influential thinkers of Lebensphilosophie were Wilhelm Dilthey, Henri Bergson, Georg Simmel, Ludwig Klages, and José Ortega y Gasset. They had different approaches and perspectives, but they shared a common interest in exploring the nature of life, its creativity, its diversity, and its relation to history, culture, and society.

They also influenced other fields of thought, such as existentialism, phenomenology, psychology, sociology, and art.

But why should you care about Lebensphilosophie today? What can it offer you in your own quest for meaning and happiness?

Here are some possible reasons:

• Lebensphilosophie can inspire you to appreciate the complexity and beauty of life, and to cultivate your own creativity and individuality. It can help you to discover your own passions, values, and goals, and to express them in your actions and choices.

• Lebensphilosophie can challenge you to question the assumptions and norms of your culture and society, and to seek your own authentic way of living. It can encourage you to be open to new experiences, perspectives, and possibilities, and to embrace change and uncertainty as opportunities for growth and learning.

• Lebensphilosophie can remind you of the importance of connecting with others, and of being part of a larger community and history. It can teach you to respect and appreciate the diversity of life, and to seek mutual understanding and cooperation with people who are different from you.

• Lebensphilosophie can motivate you to live with purpose and responsibility, and to contribute to the common good. It can urge you to use your talents and skills to make a positive difference in the world, and to leave a lasting legacy for future generations.

Lebensphilosophie is not a dogmatic or systematic doctrine, but a flexible and personal attitude towards life. It invites you to explore, experiment, and create your own philosophy of life, based on your own experience and reflection.

It is a way of living that is both challenging and rewarding, and that can enrich your life with meaning and joy.

To explore these ideas in more depth and apply them to your life, become a Rebel Intellects member.