The Philosophical Depths of Life on a Boat and at Sea: Freedom and Infinity Meeting with Existential Philosophy
A boat is a vehicle that brings people to freedom and immerses them in the depths of the sea. The experience of yachting goes beyond being just an adventure; it offers an opportunity to explore the philosophical dimensions of life on a boat and at sea. Existential philosophy is a discipline that questions the meaning of existence, the place of humans, and the foundations of the universe. In this article, we will explore the philosophical aspects of life on a boat, reflecting on the yachting experience from a different perspective and discussing its relationship with existential philosophy under several headings.
- The Freedom of Life on a Boat:
A boat carries a person beyond the limits of land and provides a sense of boundless freedom. Freedom is the ability of a person to make their own choices and bear the responsibility. Life on a boat allows individuals to become aware of their freedom by surrendering to the arms of nature. The infinite expanses of the sea trigger questioning of the limited existence of humans. Choices made at sea can sometimes be of vital importance. The spontaneous decisions that may arise on a boat can influence the course and safety of the journey. Therefore, life at sea highlights not only the freedom and choices of individuals but also their sense of responsibility. Making correct decisions and bearing the consequences becomes an indispensable part of life on a boat.
- The Search for Meaning in the Depths of the Sea:
Life on a boat and at sea leads individuals to search for meaning. According to existential philosophy, humans inherently desire to pursue a purpose in their existence and explore meaning. The ocean reminds people of the vastness and complexity of nature while providing an opportunity to question their existential questions. Living on a boat prompts individuals to ask about their existence and explore the meaning of life.
- Interaction between Humans and Nature:
Life on a boat allows individuals to integrate with nature, leaving no room for individuals to remain disconnected from it. According to existential philosophy, humans are a part of nature and should live in harmony with it. A boat takes people to the heart of nature and provides an opportunity to interact with it. The rhythm of the sea, the breeze of the wind, and the sun’s warmth enable individuals to be in harmony with nature. Living on a boat helps individuals realize that their existence is a part of nature.
- Fragility and the Smallness of Humans:
The sea reminds humans of their fragility and smallness, emphasizing that humans are weak and fragile in the face of nature. Life on a boat brings individuals to a point in front of the power of nature and reveals their smallness. This situation requires individuals to be humble and modest in the face of the vastness of the universe.
A thought that further deepens the philosophical dimensions of the experience on a boat is presented in the famous philosopher Albert Camus’ work, “The Myth of Sisyphus.” Camus describes the existential condition of humans using the mythological story of Sisyphus. Sisyphus is a character who is punished by having to push a large rock up a hill only to see it roll back down when he reaches the top. This situation represents a state where humans confront absurdity and are trapped in a perpetual cycle. Life on a boat can also reflect a similar paradox. Living at sea requires constant movement, effort, and challenges because humans are small in the face of life and must constantly struggle. The attempt to question the existential purpose and explore meaning becomes an expression of the philosophical dimensions of life on a boat. In Camus’ words, “The struggle itself towards the heights is enough to fill a man’s heart.” Life on a boat can manifest the human endeavour to discover meaning in a world full of challenges.
- The Flow of Time and Peace on a Boat:
Life on a boat allows individuals to perceive the flow of time from a different perspective. The sea reminds individuals that time is constantly moving and directs them to appreciate the importance of the present moment. According to existential philosophy, human existence is a process that extends from the past to the future. However, living on a boat enables individuals to evaluate the present moment, find peace, and experience serenity.
Conclusion:
Life on a boat is not just an adventure; it offers an opportunity to question the fundamental aspects of existence through the lens of existential philosophy. Concepts such as freedom, the search for meaning, harmony with nature, fragility, and the flow of time highlight the philosophical dimensions of life on a boat and at sea. The yachting experience provides a new perspective for individuals to understand themselves and the universe. Life on a boat takes individuals on a profound inner journey by placing them in the midst of nature, encouraging them to question their own existence and discover meaning.
Written by Marlyn Pardo
