Reflection #5
The fact that Sophie and Alberto now realize that they are characters in a book written by Hilde's dad offers many analogies and connections to Fate vs Free Will. One time this was already brought up is when they were talking and heard a knock at the door. They didn't want to open it, but acknowledged that it wouldn't matter what they do in the end, because the Major could do whatever he wants, so they open the door. In this scenario, it seems like they gave in to fate, but in reality they made the choice to get up and open the door. Or were they fated to make that choice no matter what, just like when Alberto seems to be possessed by the Major when he says "Next section!" or "Next chapter!". Another concept in the book introduced by Hegel was that each historical period is special to it's own time, and almost that we evolve as time progresses, establishing new global opinions and ideals. This is seen in history classes, as old traditions and modes of thinking may seem ridiculous in the present, but really, they are only expected for that past period. I feel that this supports the idea that we are more products of our environment than our genes.
Connection #5
The conflict between fate and free will that Alberto and Sophie are experiencing is an idea that I've thought about before, but concluded that it is probably free will that governs our lives. We can think that there is some other being controlling our actions and perhaps our thoughts, but to me, all of my actions are rooted in reason and I find myself in control of what I want to do, and have reasons why I do those things. In the book, Alberto might be confused after he is possessed by the Major, but that just isn't something that I, in the real world, experience. Something else that was presented was Schopenhauer and Kierkegaard's idea that basically concludes life mostly sucks. One of the reasons was that we will always yearn for more than we will ever attain. But this just isn't true, for me, and I would think for most people. We have goals in life, as well as unrealistic dreams and fantasies. But for me, making those goals and living my life the best I can is what gives me happiness and sanctuary. The fact that I am doing the best I can right now and am putting an effort is enough. I don't need to be the president, a billionaire, or be dating Selena Gomez. Being in GSC, one of the leaders on the robotics team, and having good grades is enough for me. I can also acknowledge that for me to reach those unrealistic dreams would require an enormous amount of work, effort, and stress, which after all is done, I don't know that it would be worth it in the end. As long as one is able to appreciate the situation they are in, they won't grieve over the fact that they aren't in a better position.
