WHAT IS THE PURPOSE OF LIFE?

For centuries, the human species has contemplated and questioned the purpose of life. However, the question itself presumes there is a purpose—an assumption that is not supported by evidence. From the dawn of evolution to today, there is no indication that the development of our species, or any species along the evolutionary continuum, has been guided by a predetermined purpose. Instead, the evidence points to the existence and evolution of humanity as fortuitous—a random occurrence or part of a natural progression of physical phenomena governed by the laws of physics.

The existence of these natural laws is a profound and beautiful fact. Through human discovery and the extrapolation of these laws via mathematics, we have unraveled many mysteries of the universe. Yet, no evidence exists that these laws operate with intent or purpose. With all its complexity, the universe appears to function according to principles of energy and matter, without any guiding hand or ultimate aim.

Humanity has long sought to assign purpose, and religion has been one of the primary frameworks for this endeavor. Religion arose to explain purpose, providing comfort and structure in the face of the unknown. Yet, it lacks a foundation and serves no objective purpose in defining the meaning of life. Just as there is no necessity to attribute the universe's origin to a supernatural deity, there is no necessity to assign a purpose to life itself. To do so is to project human desires and fears onto a universe that operates independently of our perceptions.

Life, like the universe, exists because it exists. This truth can be both liberating and humbling. It frees us from the constraints of imposed meanings and allows us to derive fulfillment from our experiences, connections, and discoveries. The absence of a universal purpose does not diminish the value of life; instead, it underscores the unique opportunity we have to create our own meaning.

In embracing this perspective, humanity can find solace in knowing that we are part of a natural, ever-evolving cosmos. Our existence may be a cosmic accident, but the potential for wonder, creativity, and the pursuit of understanding lies within that accident. By letting go of the need for external validation or divine intent, we can appreciate life as a fleeting, remarkable phenomenon in an indifferent universe.

William James Spriggs