Single Idea 9300

[catalogued under 23. Ethics / F. Existentialism / 4. Boredom]

Full Idea

Boredom is a serious matter. It is not a condition that we seek to avoid just because we do not find it enjoyable. ..It threatens the very continuation of conscious mental life. ..Avoiding bored is a primitive urge for psychic survival.

Gist of Idea

Boredom is serious, not just uncomfortable; it threatens our psychic survival

Source

Harry G. Frankfurt (The Reasons of Love [2005], 2.8)

Book Reference

Frankfurt,Harry G.: 'The Reasons of Love' [Princeton 2006], p.53


A Reaction

Presumably nihilism will flood into the emptiness created by boredom. Frankfurt will see it as a lack of love for anything in your life, and hence an absence of value. Frankfurt is very good.