Making Sense of Suffering

The problem of suffering is an ancient one. How can we begin to understand it? It has been a great puzzle and a burden for all philosophies and worldviews. Can we even attempt to make sense of suffering, or is this a misguided question? Is suffering simply meaningless and gratuitous? Atheist philosopher Bertrand Russell said that any philosophy that hopes to stand must begin with the stance of "unyielding despair." Another atheist, Richard Dawkins, has said that in a world of electrons and selfish genes, there is no good or evil--only blind, pitiless indifference. Buddhism declares that suffering is the result of desire or craving and that we must extinguish desire in order to extinguish suffering. Other philosophies present other solutions that include God as the best hope for dealing with the problem of suffering.

The question for us to tackle is not: "What worldview answers or solves all of our questions about suffering?" Rather, it is: "What worldview or philosophy of life offers us the best insights and resources to help us grapple with suffering?"

For our September gathering, some prepared to discuss this classic, but challenging, topic.

Thanks to Marty--one of our Socrates Cafe members--who suggested that we talk about this topic.

NOTE: We are meeting a couple of hours later than usual since I have obligations earlier in the day.