I fall most closely into the first take. I have problems even understanding what people mean when they talk about meaning. The term seems to be used to imply an appeal to an external meaning - an outside authority - which is either religious or quasi-religious. The necessary prerequisite is buying into the claim of authority. I don’t.
In an internal framework, by contrast, “do a good job, make a decent living, and take care of your family” is a completely acceptable goal. As would be almost any other goal. But it’s the goal most within my control.
It also matches “the meaning of life” in its most literal form. Every living entity is designed by evolution to survive and reproduce. One might expect to find satisfaction in fulfilling one’s function.
It may not surprise you to learn that philosophically I tend to align with Epicurus.
I fall most closely into the first take. I have problems even understanding what people mean when they talk about meaning. The term seems to be used to imply an appeal to an external meaning - an outside authority - which is either religious or quasi-religious. The necessary prerequisite is buying into the claim of authority. I don’t.
In an internal framework, by contrast, “do a good job, make a decent living, and take care of your family” is a completely acceptable goal. As would be almost any other goal. But it’s the goal most within my control.
It also matches “the meaning of life” in its most literal form. Every living entity is designed by evolution to survive and reproduce. One might expect to find satisfaction in fulfilling one’s function.
It may not surprise you to learn that philosophically I tend to align with Epicurus.