Chapter 1: The Nature of Existence

The inquiry into existence has perplexed thinkers for ages. From ancient Eastern philosophies to the musings of the Greeks and contemporary academics, countless interpretations have emerged, yet a consensus remains elusive.

While engaging with V.E. Schwab's novel The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue, I encountered a thought-provoking idea. The plot centers around Addie, a woman cursed to leave no trace on the world. Every action she takes, from a simple pencil mark to a footprint, vanishes the instant she moves away. Her name and story fade from memory, even for her family.

Existential themes resonate throughout the narrative, showcasing Addie's relentless desire to make her presence known despite her affliction. This led me to ponder: does a person truly exist if they leave no imprint on those around them?

Interaction often defines existence. We recognize the presence of an object or being through its interactions with us. For instance, stars are acknowledged because their light reaches us on Earth and engages our senses. Similarly, we confirm the existence of others through conversation, physical contact, and shared experiences. Even phenomena like black holes demonstrate existence through their interactions with light and matter.

Could it be possible for someone to exist without affecting anything at all, without engaging with anyone?

One perspective suggests that internal influence could establish existence. Our physical self influences our thoughts, and vice versa. Although an individual may not affect the external world, they still experience its impact, maintaining some level of interaction.

Thus, such a person would exist, albeit in a manner distinct from the majority. This brings to mind the age-old question: If a tree falls in a forest with no one to hear it, does it produce sound?

The existential inquiry parallels the resolution to this classic dilemma, which now has a commonly accepted answer! Sound, as we define it, only materializes when it reaches our ears. Until that point, it merely exists as a pattern of vibrations in the air. Therefore, a tree falling in solitude creates vibrations, but without an observer, we wouldn't classify those vibrations as 'sound.'

In a similar vein, lacking interaction with the external world means retaining an internal reality, yet whether we deem that as existence remains a topic for discussion.

What are your thoughts? Can a person truly exist without leaving any impact?

Section 1.1: The Duality of Existence

The concept of existence is multifaceted, intertwining interactions both internal and external.

Subsection 1.1.1: Understanding Internal Influence

Chapter 2: The Impact of Presence

In this thought-provoking video titled "Death Does Not Exist. It Is an Illusion," Claudia Schäpper shares her near-death experience, challenging conventional notions of existence and impact.

The second video, "Earth and Humanity: Myth and Reality" from Earth Day 2021, delves into the complex relationship between human existence and the environment, prompting us to reconsider our impact on the world.