On Calculators

As previously stated, I believe that we are each our own centers of belief from birth. I also believe that which guides the formulation of our beliefs and actions to be an important archetype: we do what we believe is best (Socrates/Plato). The word “think” is crucial here, because it allows for error in result, in thought, and in direction. What is “best” is generally an infamously elusive fact. Nonetheless, we aim for it after a tedious intellectual struggle or whim. What we determine to be “best” is distinct from individual from individual (and often, from context to context for each particular individual). For one, the best option would be to go to University of Arizona rather than Pima. For another, the best option would be to completely cover their body in piercings and tattoos. Importantly, I am not advocating or positing moral relativism. I am merely recognizing the relatively safe conclusion that people create their own understanding of what is best. With this in mind, it may be understood that someone would act in what is commonly, if not practically universally, objectionable: a woman may steal, a man may rape, etc. etc. Such offenders may even recognize their actions as “immoral” or even, “evil,” but their words carry a different meaning: “your morality says this is wrong.” Nietzsche, for example, famously referred to himself as “evil,” immoral, and “the anti-christ.” A thief might think, or conclude via a lack of thought, that the instant gratification combined with the consequences is better than not having the gratification or the consequences.

The term “self-preseveration” is often attributed to encompass what I mean, but I think it is only a great example, rather than the word attached to my description. One’s own balancing of what is “best” is, by definition, selfish. This doesn’t mean that all actions are guided for the sake of what is commonly associated with the word “selfish.” For example, one may martyr themselves because they either believe it will get them into heaven or that they don’t wish to live in world alternative to their martyrdom. This does mean that people are inherently selfish.