Question

Both the Stoics and Frankl build their theories on the concept of the Logos. Briefly compare and contrast the Stoics (who are Eudaimonists holding Happiness is the Ultimate Good in life) to Frankl (who is a Non-Eudaimonist holding that Meaning and not Happiness is the ultimate good in life.) What points in their theories do you agree with—e.g., are you Rationalist or Existentialist? In short, would you say you are more a follower of Frankl or Stoicism, or can you integrate both theories?

Answer 1

While one argues for happiness the other argues for meaning in life. While everyone would agree that when one is happy without any real meaning in one’s existence, it’s not a life well lived or it’s a life managed by others. For example, a slave could be happy serving the master without striving to find out what the slave really wants. On the other hand, one could find meaning in life but if one suffers throughout one’s journey in finding the meaning of one’s life, it would be meaningless. In my opinion, I would integrate both the theories by engaging in a happy journey of finding meaning in life. This would mean that I would engage in activities that interests me and although there are hard roads ahead because I like the journey, I would enjoy it. This is because happiness is not a destination but it’s a journey and finding the meaning in life is not a short journey. So, enjoying the journey in finding the real meaning of life would make one the happiest when one finds it.

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