Unchange: Embracing Cyclical Time and Rediscovering our Humanity in a Digital Age
A Deep Dive into Serkan KILIÇ's Profound Philosophies on Time, Art, and Technology
Caught in the Spin Cycle
In today's fast-paced society, it often feels like we're trapped in an endless cycle of deadlines, trends, and constant updates. From social media notifications to the latest technological advancements, it seems as though we’re always trying to play catch-up. But what if this relentless pace is merely an illusion? What if, beneath the surface, there exists a grander cycle, unchanging and perpetual? This is one of the mind-bending ideas explored in Serkan KILIÇ's eye-opening book, Voluntariness of the Unchanging.
The Illusion of Change
In his book, KILIÇ suggests that what we perceive as change is simply a fragment of a much grander, unchanging cycle. He uses the example of the four seasons to illustrate his point. We often see them as distinct and separate, but KILIÇ posits that they are merely different points in one continuous loop. Extending this view, he argues that even our lives, fleeting and ephemeral, are part of a larger cyclical process, one witnessed by the seemingly timeless presence of mountains.
This cyclical understanding of time forces us to rethink how we measure success and progress. Are our achievements significant in the grand scheme of things? Or are they just brief flashes in an eternal cycle? As humbling as it may seem, KILIÇ invites us to find meaning in this grand perspective, seeing our brief lives as integral parts of a magnificent, unending cycle.
The Role of the Artist
One of KILIÇ's most captivating arguments is his view of the artist's role in society. According to him, artists have a sacred responsibility to capture the fleeting beauty of these cycles and translate them into timeless works of art. In a world obsessed with trends and external validation, KILIÇ celebrates the innate, instinctual drive of true artists to create something beautiful and profound. He likens this to a swallow building its nest—not overthinking, but following an instinctual urge to bring something meaningful into existence.
In contrast, our digital age has fostered a dilemma where art is often driven by the pursuit of likes and shares rather than authentic expression. This constant struggle between creating for external approval and tapping into an authentic inner voice is more relevant today than ever. It's a call to return to the essence of creativity, to create from a place of genuine passion rather than digital noise.
Navigating the Digital Dilemma
Our relationship with technology is a double-edged sword. On one side, it offers unparalleled connectivity and solutions to many of humanity's challenges. On the other, it rewires our brains and shifts our patterns of interaction with the world around us. KILIÇ is particularly concerned with the rise of artificial intelligence, warning that while it holds potential for enormous progress, it also risks eroding what makes us human.
The book paints a picture of a world where technology may manipulate and control us, potentially even leading to a future where human consciousness is uploaded and manipulated like data. This idea compels us to question the essence of our humanity: if our experiences and memories can be reduced to code, what truly makes us human?
Art as a Sanctuary
In this increasingly digital world, KILIÇ suggests that traditional art forms can serve as a refuge, a place where we reconnect with our humanity. Painting, sculpture, music—these invite us to slow down and engage with our inner lives in a way that modern technology often discourages. It's a reminder of the depth and beauty that exists within human experience, beyond what any algorithm can replicate.
Embracing the Unknown
To navigate the complexities and uncertainties of our modern world, KILIÇ advises us to cultivate trust in the cyclical nature of time and our ability to navigate the unknown. He likens life to watching a movie—we don't know how it will end, but we trust that every twist and turn contributes to a coherent narrative. This sense of trust, or even surrender, is where true freedom lies—not from external circumstances but from the inner compulsion to control everything.
Conclusion: Rediscovering Meaning
In the face of overwhelming technological advancement and existential uncertainty, KILIÇ reminds us that there is still beauty and meaning to be found. The human experience, with its capacity for love, creativity, and deep existential inquiry, cannot be replicated by any technology. As we navigate this complex world, we must remember what truly matters and strive to find a balance.
By embracing the cyclical nature of time and reconnecting with our authentic selves, we can live meaningful lives imbued with purpose and wonder. Whether through art, contemplation, or genuine human connection, KILIÇ's profound insights offer a hopeful path forward in this ever-changing world.
Illusion of change
Cyclical nature of time
Art and technology
Authentic inner voice
Loneliness as strength
Embracing the unknown
Impact of artificial intelligence
Listen on Spotify :
https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/singularity-serkanides/episodes/Introduction-to-the-Book-Voluntariness-of-the-Unchanging-e2odq1v