Socrates

Is the unexamined life worth living?

Yes.

Socrates’ claim, “The unexamined life is not worth living,” is an unfair statement. Human beings will inevitably examine every choice that they make in life, but repeatedly asking yourself why you are what you are is not a necessary aspect of your life. Some people need that in order to live comfortably within themselves, and I respect that, but I do not think that it is anyone’s place to say whether or not someone’s life is worth living.

Now, that said, most people do examine their lives. Every decision that is made, along with most other things will be examined again and again, so it is an unavoidable part of your life. However, I take Socrates’ quote to mean something more than just weighing your options. I think that he is talking more about continually asking yourself questions about why you are doing what you are doing, and living your life based off of what you feel. I personally feel that a person is doing oneself a disservice by not examining what they are doing, and for what reason, but I stand strongly in my belief that it is ones choice to do as they wish.