Part 8/12:
Meaning arises when you identify a goal and work toward it. The circuitry involved (dopaminergic pathways) rewards progress, making effortful pursuit intrinsically satisfying. Without goals, this positive feedback loop diminishes, leading to potential suffering or existential despair.
Hedonism versus Meaningful Engagement
While pursuit of pleasure (hedonism) offers temporary happiness, it’s often short-lived and not necessarily fulfilling. True meaning resides in sustained engagement with goals that matter, which provides a deeper sense of purpose and well-being.