The Dangers of Clickbait: From Literature to Enlightenment

The Dangers of Clickbait: From Literature to Enlightenment

In today's digital age, we are bombarded with an overwhelming amount of content that seems to have a fleeting lifespan. It seems that there are two types of writers in this landscape: those who write for the subject's sake, and those who write solely for the purpose of making money. The former group consists of individuals who have thoughts or experiences they deem worth sharing, while the latter group writes purely for financial gain.

Arthur Schopenhauer, a renowned philosopher, believes that writers have a moral duty not to cheat their readers. When writing for money becomes the primary motivation, literature suffers tremendously. Schopenhauer argues that the best works of great men throughout history were created when they had little or no financial reward. It is in these moments that the true essence of their thoughts and ideas shines through.

The problem lies in the fact that the influx of bad writers, who offer little timeless value, monopolizes the limited time and attention of readers. Instead of exploring the works of the past, people are drawn to the newest and most sensationalized content. This leads to a perpetuation of prevailing ideas, and ultimately, a decline in the overall quality of literature.

However, it is important to note that there is a wealth of exceptional content from past eras that should not be overlooked. The writings of ancient philosophers and scholars hold immense wisdom and timeless relevance. By disregarding these works in favor of the latest trends, we miss out on the opportunity to expand our knowledge and gain a deeper understanding of the world.

In a similar vein, the Japanese Zen Buddhist monk Dogen Zenji emphasizes the power of introspection and self-discovery. He posits that everything we need to know is already within ourselves. Dogen asserts that even the most mundane activities, such as eating or cleaning, can be seen as opportunities for spiritual growth and enlightenment.

Dogen's teachings center around the concept of awakening. He believes that the ultimate goal is for individuals to awaken to their true selves. It is through this process of self-realization that one can truly understand their own nature and existence. This awakening is not about accumulating knowledge or becoming an intellectual expert; it is about going beyond surface-level understanding and delving into the depths of one's own being.

The character for "awakening" in Japanese kanji, "覚悟," holds significant meaning. It combines the characters for "enlightenment" and "awareness." This suggests that enlightenment is not an unattainable and distant state, but rather something that can be achieved by cultivating a certain mindset. Buddhism teaches that with the right intention and determination, one can reach a state of enlightenment and gain profound insights into the nature of reality.