When I’m unhappy, I feel like I’m doing life wrong. I’d rather be happy. But is happiness the point of life, or is there more to it? If I pursue happiness, mine first then for those around me, is that selfish? But if there’s a bigger purpose, then what about people with Alzheimer’s or dementia who can’t recall recent experiences or make plans?
You mean in the no-free-will purposeless-universe scenario? I think there’s no right or wrong answer, really. Every human being (and animal, and plant, and rock) are simply what they are. You have to add somewhat arbitrary personal criteria to get a meaningful answer.
Personally, I think being kind and strong is very important. That’s not very original, but I guess the interesting thing I have to say about it is that 99% of the population earnestly tries to do that, and the reason people suck is basically down to a version of Hanlon’s razor. To be an effective human being, don’t lie to yourself.
We all lie to ourselves. But I admire people who try to lie to themselves less, who try to be honest with themselves and face reality.