Postmodernity: Where has Meaning & Purpose Gone?

Postmodernity: Where has Meaning & Purpose Gone?

In today's postmodern society, there is a growing sense of "inward homelessness" where individuals feel a void of meaning and purpose within themselves. This emptiness stems from the rejection of culture and the diminishing of one's identity. Culture has traditionally played a significant role in providing individuals with a sense of purpose and meaning. It is through culture that we pass down our values, traditions, and experiences from one generation to the next.

A society that values its culture and diligently passes it on to future generations is often seen as a great society. However, when a generation fails to esteem its own heritage and neglects to pass on the torch, it signifies that the foundational principles and experiences that make the society what it is, are no longer considered valid. This rejection of culture leads to a loss of identity and subsequently, a loss of meaning and purpose.

Today, we find ourselves in a society that has increasingly rejected religious stories and faith-based traditions. The stories of creation, the tales of King David, and the teachings of Christ are no longer seen as relevant or important to many individuals. In our pursuit of progress and modernity, we have neglected to pass on the cultural aspects that once gave us a sense of meaning and purpose. Consequently, our identity has diminished as a result.

However, amidst this cultural collapse, there are individuals and companies that are striving to make a difference. Yvon Chouinard, the founder of Patagonia, is one such example. In 2018, Chouinard made the decision to change the purpose of the company to "We're in business to save our home planet." This shift in purpose represents a departure from the traditional notion of business solely focused on profit-making.

Chouinard believes that businesses have the power to influence customers and other companies to make a positive impact on the environment. By aligning the purpose of Patagonia with the mission to protect the planet, Chouinard hopes to change the system along the way. Instead of extracting value from nature and transforming it into wealth for investors, Patagonia intends to use its wealth to protect the source of all wealth – the Earth itself.

This approach highlights the importance of purpose in our lives. Instead of solely defining our identity through asserting who we are, Chouinard emphasizes the significance of understanding why we were given this identity and the responsibilities that come with it. By grounding our purpose in a greater cause, we can find meaning and fulfillment beyond ourselves.

In light of these insights, here are three actionable pieces of advice to incorporate more meaning and purpose in our lives:

• 1. Embrace and Value Your Cultural Heritage: Take the time to explore and understand your cultural heritage. Learn about the stories, traditions, and values that have shaped your identity. By embracing your cultural heritage, you can find a sense of meaning and purpose that comes from connecting with your roots.

• 2. Find a Purpose Beyond Yourself: Look for ways to contribute to a cause that is greater than yourself. Whether it's through volunteering, supporting environmental initiatives, or advocating for social justice, finding a purpose beyond your personal interests can bring a profound sense of meaning and fulfillment.

• 3. Incorporate Purpose into Your Work: Consider how you can align your work or career with a greater purpose. Look for opportunities to make a positive impact, whether it's by working for a company that shares your values or starting your own venture with a mission to create change. By infusing purpose into your work, you can find a deeper sense of meaning and satisfaction.

In conclusion, the loss of meaning and purpose in today's postmodern society can be attributed to the rejection of culture and the diminishing of our identity. However, by embracing our cultural heritage, finding a purpose beyond ourselves, and incorporating purpose into our work, we can reclaim a sense of meaning and contribute to a more purposeful and fulfilling society. It is through these actions that we can navigate the complexities of postmodernity and restore a sense of meaning and purpose in our lives.