ChatGPTは大変な評判である。自分は、いろいろと質問をしてその回答を読みながら納得している。昨日は、英語で次のような設問をした。”Make a conversation between a philosopher and a dying man who is afraid of death.”である。自分の年齢になると死を意識することも多くなる。こんな哲学的な設問に対して、AIはどのような回答をするのか興味があった。そして、その回答はきわめて常識的な回答であった。でも、それで納得した。個性的な人が回答すると、個性的な回答が出てくる。それはそれで面白いこともあるが、自分は拒否反応を起こす場合もある。AIがきわめて常識的な回答であったので、私は非常に納得した。とにかく、常識的なことほど当てはまるのであろう。
さて、回答は以下の通りであった。a harmonious return to the cosmic orderとか we can learn to cherish the present moment と言うような言葉が心に刺さった。皆様はどうであろうか。
Philosopher: Good evening. I couldn’t help but notice the weight of concern on your face. Is something troubling you?
Dying Man: Good evening. Yes, I am troubled indeed. I am facing my own mortality, and the fear of what lies beyond death haunts me. I’ve spent my life avoiding the thought of it, but now it feels imminent, and I don’t know how to reconcile with it.
Philosopher: I understand that the prospect of death can be unsettling. It is a mystery that has intrigued humanity for centuries. Tell me, what specifically troubles you about death?
Dying Man: I suppose what troubles me most is the unknown. Will there be anything after I take my last breath? Will I simply cease to exist? The thought of losing consciousness forever is terrifying.
Philosopher: Your concerns are natural and shared by many. Death has been a subject of contemplation for philosophers throughout history. While we cannot claim certainty about what awaits us after death, we can explore different perspectives and philosophies that might help us make peace with it.
Dying Man: I am open to any insights you might have. I yearn for some solace or understanding to alleviate my fear.
Philosopher: One perspective worth considering is that death can be seen as a natural part of the cycle of life. Just as we were not aware of our existence before birth, death may be a return to that state of non-existence. Instead of viewing it as a loss or cessation, we can see it as a harmonious return to the cosmic order.
Dying Man: That’s an intriguing perspective, but it still doesn’t entirely alleviate my fear. The idea of losing my consciousness and all that I hold dear is deeply unsettling.
Philosopher: Another way to approach this fear is through the recognition of impermanence. Life itself is transient, and everything we hold dear is subject to change and eventual loss. By accepting the impermanence of life, we can learn to cherish the present moment and find meaning in the time we have.
Dying Man: I can see the wisdom in that. Perhaps if I focus on living fully in the present and appreciating the people and experiences around me, it will help alleviate my fear of what comes after.
Philosopher: Precisely. Embracing the present moment and cultivating a sense of gratitude can bring immense joy and fulfillment. Additionally, reflecting on the legacy you leave behind can provide comfort. Your actions, relationships, and the impact you’ve had on others can continue to resonate even after you’re gone.
Dying Man: I hadn’t considered that before. It’s true, if I can leave a positive impact on the world and the people I love, then perhaps I can find solace in knowing that a part of me will live on in their memories and the influence I’ve had on their lives.
Philosopher: Exactly. Death is a reminder of the preciousness of life and an opportunity to reflect on what truly matters. It can serve as a catalyst for personal growth, a motivation to live authentically and embrace the inherent uncertainty of existence.
Dying Man: Thank you for sharing your insights. I feel a little lighter, as if a burden has been lifted. While my fear might not completely disappear, I now have a new perspective to guide me through this transition.
Philosopher: I’m glad to hear that. Remember, philosophy can provide us with frameworks for understanding the world and ourselves, but ultimately, the answers lie within you. Embrace this moment, live with purpose, and find your own path toward peace.