Well-being and ill-being

Philosophical treatises focus on how to achieve the goal of a ‘good life’. As Socrates puts it, ‘Not life, but good life, is to be chiefly valued.’ Aristotle proclaimed that happiness is the whole aim, purpose and end of human existence. This is a life when human beings can fulfil their potential; a life where you achieve happiness by cultivating virtuous habits of thinking and acting. While current generations may not agree with this definition, the fact remains that a virtuous life is one that contributes to well-being.

Philosopher Kieran Setiya in ‘Life is Hard’ argues, however, that while this may be the desired goal, challenges ranging from ill health to grief to failures can act as stumbling blocks. It is essential that we be prepared to face these. We would, Setiya suggests, need to be aware of what Shelly Kagan called ‘ill being’. This is an interesting concept and seeks to highlight the factors that can contribute to a life possibly going bad.

Undoubtedly, theodicy, the vindication of divine providence, seeks to answer the question why an omni-benevolent God permits evil or ‘ill happenings’. However, faith is the key. This will help strengthen in us the virtue of patience to overcome the ‘bads’. Patience is a virtue that Devi Shailaputri, the first form of Navadurga, embodies. Patience gives the necessary resolve to face the blips in the journey of life that are bound to happen; faith gives the realisation that this too shall pass.