Denial of Death

Denial of Death

The denial of death is a concept that has been explored by many philosophers throughout history. From ancient Greek thinkers like Plato and Aristotle to modern-day philosophers like Ernest Becker and Martin Heidegger, the fear and avoidance of death has been a recurring theme in philosophical discourse.

At its core, the denial of death stems from our innate fear of the unknown and the uncertainty of what lies beyond our mortal existence. We cling to life and avoid thinking about death as a coping mechanism to shield ourselves from the existential dread that comes with the realization that we will one day cease to exist.

In his book “The Denial of Death,” American cultural anthropologist Ernest Becker argues that this fear of death is the primary motivator behind human behavior. He posits that our constant striving for success, power, and prestige is all an attempt to deny our mortality and achieve a sense of immortality through our achievements.

Martin Heidegger, the German philosopher, argues that the denial of death is not just a psychological coping mechanism, but a fundamental aspect of human existence. He argues that our very being is defined by our awareness of our own mortality, and that we are constantly trying to transcend this mortality through our actions and achievements.

However, the denial of death can also have negative consequences. By avoiding the reality of our own mortality, we can become disconnected from the present moment and lose sight of what is truly important in life. We can become fixated on material possessions, power, and prestige, at the expense of our relationships and our own sense of well-being.

In order to live a fulfilling and authentic life, it is important to confront the reality of our own mortality and accept it as a natural part of the human experience. This acceptance can lead to a greater appreciation for the present moment and a deeper sense of gratitude for the time we have on this earth. As American philosopher William James wrote, “The greatest use of life is to spend it for something that will outlast it.”

The denial of death is a natural aspect of human existence, but it is important to confront this fear and accept our own mortality as a necessary step towards living a more authentic and fulfilling life. By embracing the present moment and focusing on what is truly important, we can transcend our fear of death and find greater meaning in our lives.