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I find it interesting how difficult On the Nature of Things is to read yet alone understand. As mentioned on page 182, the collection of Latin poems is described as “knotty” and “difficult”. From my point of view–if I was a philosopher thinker and wanted my ideas to be accepted by others–I would make the material as digestible as possible. Especially when you take into account that the literacy rate was lower. I suppose that maybe it was equivalent to a scholar paper which requires an ability to read higher level material. 

I agree with the idea that there was no moment in history where humans were at peace and able to behave without being considered with survival. I feel like typically in history lessons or books, early societies are portrayed to have a simplistic life or even that the individuals at that time were not as complex thinkers as humans are now. Additionally, In reality, these individuals were smart enough to make some of the most crucial decisions and discoveries. 

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I made a text to world connection to the ideas that people are seeking pleasure in their life. On page 195, the novel talks about the human’s “pursuit of happiness” throughout life. These behaviors are prevalent in everyday life. For example, the idea of materialism and purchasing goods and then flaunting them for validation is a way that people feel pleasure. Or– also mentioned in the book–sports. I feel as if sports is the majority of the way people feel not only excitement but a sense of connection to others. Fans follow their team for weeks and find little bits of excitement if they happen to win their weekly game. Another example is the superbowl which is a huge commercialized event that millions of people around the world look forward to each year. 

Q- Is there a modern day version of On the Nature of Things?