“As far as we can discern, the sole purpose of human existence is to kindle a light in the darkness of mere being.”
- July 26, 1875 – June 6, 1961
- Born in Switzerland
- Psychiatrist and psychologist
- Founded analytical psychology and proposed the concepts of archetypes and the collective unconscious
Quote
“As far as we can discern, the sole purpose of human existence is to kindle a light in the darkness of mere being.”
Explanation
In this quote, Carl Jung reflects on the meaning of human existence, suggesting that its purpose is to create meaning or illumination in a world that may otherwise seem dark or meaningless. The phrase “darkness of mere being” refers to the existential reality that life, in its raw, biological form, can feel empty or absurd—just a series of biological processes without deeper significance. Jung, however, proposes that the true purpose of human life is to transcend this emptiness and find or create light—symbolizing consciousness, awareness, and meaning—in the face of this inherent darkness. The “light” represents the self-awareness, growth, and insight that individuals can cultivate throughout their lives, not just through intellectual or external achievements, but by engaging deeply with their inner world, personal potential, and moral responsibility.
Historically, Jung’s perspective ties into his understanding of individuation, which is the process of self-realization and the integration of the conscious and unconscious aspects of the psyche. According to Jung, humans are not simply passive beings, but active creators of meaning who must confront the unconscious, the shadow, and the archetypes within to discover a deeper sense of purpose and wholeness. This process, though challenging and often painful, is what ultimately allows individuals to find their light—their authentic, integrated self—and to make their unique contribution to the world. In this light, human existence is about more than survival; it is about awakening to deeper truths and creating meaning in a world that is otherwise indifferent to our existence.
In modern terms, this quote resonates with contemporary existential and humanistic psychology, which emphasizes that the meaning of life is something individuals must create for themselves, rather than something that is externally given or fixed. Psychologists like Viktor Frankl have highlighted the importance of finding personal meaning even in the most difficult circumstances, suggesting that this search for meaning is central to psychological well-being. Jung’s concept of “kindling a light” aligns with the idea of personal agency and self-authorship, where the individual takes responsibility for finding and creating significance in their own life. The light represents not only understanding one’s own purpose but also illuminating the path for others, offering wisdom, compassion, or simply a greater sense of connection in a world that can often feel fragmented or uncertain.
