Benefits of Suffering

[Sean Hayden]

What do you guys think, does it help them to be better people? I've always been tempted to believe there's some truth to it. But ultimately I don't. I think that regardless of your experiences you can be a shallow asshole your whole life. But maybe for those who aren't, it's beneficial?

[laklak]

Maybe they'll just die, which I would see as a benefit for the rest of the species.

[Sean Hayden]

Yeah, but pretend you're not a bleeding heart.

[JimC]

All part of our tendency to put a positive spin on nasty shit we can't change...

[pErvinalia]

Is there any scientific evidence to support the notion of 'the benefit of suffering'? I've always figured it is a pile of bullshit thought up by the privileged to validate their continuing mistreatment of the unfortunate.

[laklak]

I can think of a few motherfuckers I'd love to see suffer, if that's any help.

[JimC]

"Suffer the little children..."

The teacher's prayer...

[cronus]

No benefit in suffering. You live one time. Make something glorious of it. Or cower in the shadows. Either way it won't end well.

[piscator]

Some kinds of suffering teach one to be better at enduring suffering, which is its own reward, so I'm told.

[cronus]

Some kinds of suffering teach one to be better at enduring suffering, which is its own reward, so I'm told.

The very definition of a long marriage.

[piscator]

Is harlequin ichthyosis the work of your doG?

[Sean Hayden]

All part of our tendency to put a positive spin on nasty shit we can't change...

I think that's probably true, especially for the "don't worry, be happy" crowd. It seems obvious to me that suffering e.g. from an illness is just all-around bad. But these guys are choosing to suffer because they believe it will give them a greater appreciation of life. There could be other benefits as well, like bonding.

[Sean Hayden]

Is there any scientific evidence to support the notion of 'the benefit of suffering'? I've always figured it is a pile of bullshit thought up by the privileged to validate their continuing mistreatment of the unfortunate.

I bet there are studies that claim to show a benefit. They may all be funded by the Templeton Foundation though...

[Sean Hayden]

Some kinds of suffering teach one to be better at enduring suffering, which is its own reward, so I'm told.

[laklak]

Suffering sucks, but surfering is great.