09.17.06
Deep Thought #9 – Is Ignorance Bliss?
“Is Ignorance Bliss?”
(proposed by David J.)
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Is ignorance bliss? There are many ways to argue this one.
Yes, much of the time it is. If there were a giant meteor heading for the Earth and no one knew about it life would continue as normal. If we all knew, life as we know it would change drastically.
Cipher from the Matrix is a good example. People within the Matrix live normally, not knowing what the -real- world is truly like. When he was pulled from virtual reality and thrust into a completey different and far more depressing world, he wanted to go back. He didn’t want to know the -real- world. In fact, an actual quote from him from the movie is, “Ignorance is bliss.”
On the other hand, there are many who crave knowledge and despise ignorance. And the more you learn the more you realize the less we as a race know about everything. I would argue that the more you know the more content you are with your life. People who are constantly learning live longer, happier, and better lives. That is bliss.
Which way do you lean?