Here are some classification of addictives vs sedatives:
1. Assuming you are entering an alien planet for an exchange program, and you are doing alone with nothing but standard exchange program goodie-bag (dictionary, history book, and rations included). What would you bring? Those are the sedatives. (Mimetic desires through loneliness)
2. Assuming you are on a pacific island commune with some of your besties, and no annoyances will be there. What would you bring? Those are the addictives. (Carnal desires through material lack)
This still clearly sucks, but there has to be a distinction somewhere.
Ultimately I feel that the journey of self-discovery is a messy one. To an extent, we strategically align our ambitions/desires with what others 'value' to maintain a sense of material relevance. Every now and again I find it useful to de-contextualise my existence and focus on the most granular/elemental aspects of living - my breath, nature; aspects of life that have intrinsic meaning that are divorced from broader cultural/social narratives of desire.
"Dipping into the societal desire pool just enough to stay in touch with the broader collective."
Not doing so is an easy way of accidentally spending a lot of social credits (and we know how that usually ends!).
Anyways, this is a great one! Keep on keeping on :)
Here are some classification of addictives vs sedatives:
1. Assuming you are entering an alien planet for an exchange program, and you are doing alone with nothing but standard exchange program goodie-bag (dictionary, history book, and rations included). What would you bring? Those are the sedatives. (Mimetic desires through loneliness)
2. Assuming you are on a pacific island commune with some of your besties, and no annoyances will be there. What would you bring? Those are the addictives. (Carnal desires through material lack)
This still clearly sucks, but there has to be a distinction somewhere.
Brilliantly insightful.
Ultimately I feel that the journey of self-discovery is a messy one. To an extent, we strategically align our ambitions/desires with what others 'value' to maintain a sense of material relevance. Every now and again I find it useful to de-contextualise my existence and focus on the most granular/elemental aspects of living - my breath, nature; aspects of life that have intrinsic meaning that are divorced from broader cultural/social narratives of desire.
Looking forward to reading more essays!