Why We Devote Ourselves to the Absurd
”Why do humans often dedicate large portions of their lives to seemingly useless or destructive causes? Because, on the surface, these causes make no sense.” — Philip Santus
Have you ever wondered why people pour their energy, time, and even resources into pursuits that seem pointless or harmful? At first glance, this behavior can be puzzling. Why would someone cling to a cause that brings no clear benefits? The answer lies deeper than what appears on the surface.
Let’s explore why humans dedicate themselves to these “absurd” causes and why such choices might make more sense than we think.
The Need for Meaning
Humans are wired to seek meaning in life. When life feels empty or directionless, people often attach themselves to a cause, even if it seems illogical. These causes offer a sense of purpose and belonging. Whether it’s joining a movement, supporting a controversial belief, or following a trend, people crave the emotional stability that comes from being part of something bigger than themselves.
For example, someone might dedicate years to a cause that seems outdated or ineffective. To an outsider, it may look like a wasted effort. However, for the person involved, it fulfills an emotional or psychological need. It provides identity and meaning.
The Power of Belonging
Humans are social creatures. We long to connect with others, and shared causes create a sense of unity. Even if the cause is destructive, it can bring people together.
Think about this: why do some people join harmful groups or extremist ideologies? Often, it’s not about the cause itself but the community behind it. These groups provide a feeling of acceptance, making individuals feel valued and important. For many, the fear of isolation outweighs the absurdity of the cause.
Emotional Investment Clouds Judgment
When someone invests a lot of time, effort, or emotion into a cause, it becomes hard to walk away. This is known as the sunk cost fallacy. The more they’ve given, the more they convince themselves that the cause is worth it, even if it’s not.
For instance, a person might continue supporting a failing project because admitting it’s a mistake feels like losing all they’ve invested. They double down, trying to justify their involvement, even when it’s clear that the cause is going nowhere.
The Illusion of Control
Sometimes, people dedicate themselves to a cause because it gives them a sense of control over their lives. In a chaotic world, taking up a cause—no matter how small or irrational—makes people feel empowered. It’s their way of influencing the world, even if the impact is minimal or negative.
For example, some might become obsessed with conspiracy theories or fringe movements. These give them the illusion that they understand and control something that others do not. It’s a coping mechanism in an unpredictable world.
The Deeper Logic
At its core, no human behavior is truly meaningless. What seems absurd on the surface often fulfills deep emotional, psychological, or social needs. While some causes might be objectively harmful or pointless, they provide individuals with:
- Purpose
- Connection
- Validation
- Control
The challenge lies in recognizing when these needs are driving us toward destructive paths and finding healthier ways to fulfill them.
Moving Forward: How to Avoid the Trap
While dedicating oneself to a cause can be fulfilling, it’s essential to reflect on its real value. Here are some steps to avoid falling into the trap of meaningless or harmful pursuits:
- Ask Yourself “Why?” Reflect on why you’re drawn to a cause. Is it aligned with your values, or are you seeking external validation?
- Look for the Bigger Picture Step back and evaluate the impact of the cause. Is it helping others or creating harm?
- Be Open to Change It’s okay to admit when a cause no longer serves you. Letting go isn’t failure—it’s growth.
- Seek Healthy Communities Find groups that encourage critical thinking, compassion, and growth. A supportive community can fulfill your need for belonging without leading you astray.
Final Thoughts
Humans dedicate themselves to seemingly useless or destructive causes because, deep down, these causes fulfill powerful emotional needs. While this behavior might appear illogical, it’s part of what makes us human. By understanding the deeper reasons behind our actions, we can make better choices and find healthier ways to meet our needs.
As Philip Santus insightfully points out, these causes often “make no sense” on the surface. But beneath that surface lies a world of human emotion, connection, and longing for purpose. Instead of judging others or ourselves too harshly, we can strive to understand and guide these desires toward meaningful and positive endeavors.
