Why Substack and the Purpose of Life Are Connected

Why Substack and the Purpose of Life Are Connected

As the digital age continues to shape the way we consume information, platforms like Substack are emerging to provide new opportunities for writers and journalists. Substack, founded by Chris Best and journalist Hamish McKenzie, aims to help writers turn their blogs and newsletters into subscription businesses. This model is a departure from the traditional internet news model, offering a more personalized and niche experience for readers.

But what does this have to do with the purpose of life? In an article by Kazuki Nakayashiki titled "Why Do People Live? (Relics Theory Edition)," he suggests that the greatest reason for human existence is to leave behind a legacy of sound ideology for future generations. According to Nakayashiki, everything we do is expressed through our words and actions, and it is through these expressions that we are truly understood by others.

Nakayashiki argues that having a sense of purpose and goals is essential for our words and actions to manifest. It is through acquiring knowledge and understanding that we become aware of the problems and areas for improvement in the world. This awareness leads to the development of intentions and goals, which drive us to make a difference. He emphasizes the importance of not only learning from our own experiences but also from the experiences of others throughout history.

While some may associate the purpose of life with religious beliefs or faith in higher powers, Nakayashiki suggests that it is through our thoughts, beliefs, and convictions that we maintain a sound conscience. It is not about whether we believe in God, heaven, or a certain doctrine, but rather about upholding a healthy conscience through our ideologies, beliefs, and faith. If we truly believe in something, it will inevitably be reflected in our actions.

If the purpose of human existence is to leave behind a legacy of sound ideology for future generations, then it becomes crucial to never forget our values and beliefs, to cultivate knowledge with love and affection, and to confront the challenges of the world head-on with determination and a sense of purpose. In other words, it is our responsibility to continuously strive to develop our thoughts and beliefs, contribute to the advancement of knowledge, and actively work towards resolving the issues that society faces.

So how can we apply these insights from Substack and Nakayashiki's theories to our own lives? Here are three actionable pieces of advice:

1. Find your niche: Just as Substack encourages writers to cater to a specific audience, it's essential to discover your own unique interests and passions. By focusing on a niche, you can develop a deeper understanding of a particular subject and make a more significant impact.

2. Seek knowledge from various sources: Nakayashiki emphasizes the importance of learning from the experiences of others. Expand your horizons by reading books, engaging in thoughtful conversations, and seeking out diverse perspectives. This will not only broaden your understanding but also help you develop a well-rounded worldview.

3. Take action with conviction: Having a sense of purpose is meaningless if it does not translate into action. Once you have identified your values and beliefs, apply them to your daily life. Stand up for what you believe in, contribute to causes that align with your principles, and actively work towards making a positive difference in the world.

In conclusion, the emergence of platforms like Substack and the exploration of the purpose of life may seem unrelated at first. However, when we dig deeper, we find that they both revolve around the idea of leaving behind a meaningful legacy. Substack offers a platform for writers to share their thoughts and insights with a niche audience, while Nakayashiki's theory emphasizes the importance of developing sound ideology and beliefs to make a lasting impact. By incorporating these ideas into our own lives, we can strive to live with purpose, contribute to the advancement of knowledge, and create a better future for generations to come.