Why Aren't Most People Interested in Intellectual, Creative, or Sporting Pursuits?

It’s not that most people aren’t interested in intellectual, creative, or sporting activities. Rather, it's more likely that they are discouraged. The pursuit of the unknown, whether it's through deep thinking, artistic creation, or athletic achievement, requires a significant amount of courage and effort. Sometimes, the very process of exploring the unknown can be daunting. Once a discovery is made, it often demands even more courage to share it with others.

Why People Feel Discouraged

There are several forces at work in the world that discourage these pursuits. Here are a few of them:

Poverty and Pragmatism

People who live in poverty often have to focus on basic survival. They may not have the financial resources to pursue activities that might seem luxurious or unnecessary to others. Additionally, the pragmatism that often characterizes a survival mindset might discourage the pursuit of endeavors that do not promise immediate or tangible rewards.

Futility and Existentialism

Some people might feel that intellectual and creative pursuits are ultimately futile. Existentialist thinkers often argue that life is essentially meaningless, and this can make it challenging to find motivation in activities that may not provide immediate or substantial results.

Laziness and Seduction

Humans tend to be lazy. They prefer to rest when they can in order to respond to sudden dangers and opportunities. Intellectual and creative pursuits often require a significant amount of energy and time. For many people, the rewards of these pursuits do not always outweigh the effort required.

Deceit and False Promises

The ease with which false promises can be made and perpetuated can also deter people from pursuing such activities. Often, the path to success in intellectual, creative, or sporting endeavors is fraught with challenges and setbacks. The allure of quick success or easy answers can be compelling but often ends in disappointment.

Competition and Winning

While one might think that competition would inspire people to strive harder, the reality is often quite different. Once someone rises to the top, others may stop creating and instead focus on imitating the successful strategies of the winners. In today’s social media-driven society, where winners and losers are constantly highlighted, this imitation can be even more prevalent.

Why People Prioritize Practical Over Intellectual Activities

There are also deeper psychological and societal reasons why people might prioritize practical activities over intellectual or creative pursuits:

Humans Tend to Be Lazy

Humans are inherently lazy creatures. They prefer to rest when they can to conserve energy to respond to pressing needs. Intellectual and creative pursuits often require significant energy and time, and for many, the immediate rewards do not justify the effort.

Priority and Division of Labor

Modern society has divided labor, and there are few who need to prioritize intellectual or creative pursuits. These activities are often pursued by a select few, and the rest of the population may see them as unnecessary or out of reach.

Interest in Immediate Rewards

People tend to be more interested in short-term material achievements that can be realized within a short period of time. Intellectual and creative pursuits, while highly rewarding emotionally, often do not provide immediate tangible benefits. Additionally, in today's internet age, with many accessible ways to express creativity and access information, people may find themselves more interested in the myriad of distractions available on social media.

The Blocking Factors

There are also internal and external factors that can block people from engaging in these pursuits:

Natural Intelligence Selection

Conclusion

Ultimately, while some people may lack the inclination or opportunity to engage in intellectual, creative, or sporting pursuits, others may simply be discouraged by the very nature of these activities. The world is full of forces that work against the pursuit of the unknown and the exploration of one's potential. Understanding these barriers can help us create a more supportive environment that encourages and nurtures these important activities for all.