It has often been the assumption of man to respect and cherish those who brought him into the world. This idea was most forcefully expressed in the idea of filial piety, a belief vested in Confucianism, but not limited to it. It is the general opinion that it is “right” to take of of those who have provided for one during periods of helplessness, most notably infancy and childhood. While there are some intrinsic values in this argument it is far from concrete. Aside from obvious deviations from the norm such as poor parenting, abuse, etc…, there lies a philosophical query which cannot be so easily settled.
I propose a stance of resentment posed to those who brought me into the world. The question of existence has been debated for thousands of years. Often it has been said that life is a test of duration, a series of trials, or some equally suggestive theme of arduousness. Equally opposed to these theories, many religions and philosophies look upon life as a blessing to be revered and cherished. Ultimately, there is no definite answer as to which is right and which is wrong. There is only the opinion one holds relative to his experience.
Descartes argued that the only absolute truth is self. Cogito Ergo Sum – I think therefore I am. This, alone, should establish the importance of personal relativity. The principle is simple: What is as it is for me, may not be the same as it is for others.
The theme of respecting ones creators is universal. Respect for God is heavily entwined with respect for creation.
What sense of devotion must one feel toward his creator? This sense of blind obligation must be questioned, especially, by those of sound mind which remain always separate from satiation. The question of suicide is not even relative to this text. It is a question of existence. Ultimately, it is a question of personal perception, it is a question of relativity.
Personally, I have come to regard my situation as slightly undesirable. The idea of filial piety, in this instance, should be reversed. it is incomprehensible to me to assume a debt is owed to those who hold responsibility for bringing me into these circumstances. If a choice between existence and oblivion existence, i would choose the latter. The benefits of consciousness do not outweigh the drawbacks, by any means. In accordance, how could a policy of blind devotion to the cause of existence be feasible? It is not. It is only because of my existence that I am required to meet the basic requirements needed for sustainment. These responsibilities are not optional, and demand my full attention at times. These annoyances, these nuisances, these constant obstructions to a peaceful existence make existence bearable instead of enjoyable. Enjoyment does not match the accepted definition, it is a stale consolation.
If a person brings another person, whose existence is undesirable, into the world why is it assumed the latter owes the former?
Its simply a practice of self preservation. One procreates for the insurance of a caretaker in old age. That is the purpose in its most pragmatic form; bereft of romantic influence.
