Ai vs AI: Do human beings long for death?

Ai Weiwei: Human society’s evolution, from biological existence to inevitable disappearance, connects humans to nature’s cycle. Death, as an unavoidable part of nature, is intrinsic.

ChatGPT (AI), January 2024: Individual perspectives on death vary. While some may fear or avoid it, others may approach death with acceptance or curiosity.

ChatGPT (AI), January 2025: The question of whether human beings long for death is complex and deeply tied to individual experiences, philosophical beliefs, and psychological states. The desire for death is not universal, and for most people, life is something they want to preserve and cherish. However, there are certainly instances where individuals might experience longing for death, though this often reflects deeper psychological, emotional, or existential struggles rather than a simple desire for death itself.

Here are several perspectives on this topic:

1. Existential and Philosophical Perspectives:
   Existentialism: Some existential philosophers have argued that humans are acutely aware of their mortality, and this awareness can sometimes lead to feelings of despair or longing for release from the burdens of life. Existential thinkers like Jean-Paul Sartre and Albert Camus discussed how humans wrestle with the absurdity of existence and the inevitability of death, but they didn’t suggest that this meant people inherently long for death.
   The Will to Live: At a fundamental level, survival instincts are deeply embedded in humans. The desire to stay alive is a primal force that shapes much of human behavior. While existential anxiety or depression might cause some to reflect on death, the will to live often remains a stronger drive.
   The Search for Meaning: Some philosophical traditions, such as Stoicism or certain Eastern philosophies like Buddhism, acknowledge the impermanence of life but encourage individuals to embrace that impermanence, seeking meaning in the present moment rather than longing for death. These traditions may view death as a natural part of life, something to be accepted, not longed for.
   
2. Psychological and Emotional Factors:
   Depression and Mental Health: A person experiencing deep depression or emotional trauma might express a longing for death, not necessarily because they desire death itself, but because they are overwhelmed by suffering. For some, the idea of death may represent escape from pain or emotional numbness. This is particularly common in individuals with suicidal thoughts or those who are struggling with chronic mental health conditions.
   Hopelessness: People who feel trapped in life, with no sense of hope for change or improvement, may find themselves contemplating death as a way to end their perceived struggles. For these individuals, the longing for death is not an innate desire for death itself, but rather an expression of despair or a cry for help.
   Relief from Suffering: In certain cases, people with chronic pain, terminal illness, or unmanageable suffering may express a desire for death as a form of relief. It’s less about the desire to die and more about a longing for peace from ongoing suffering.
   
3. Cultural and Religious Perspectives:
   Cultural Views on Death: Different cultures view death in varying ways. Some may see it as a natural part of the human journey, while others may view it as something to avoid at all costs. In many traditions, such as Christianity, Islam, and Hinduism, life is sacred, and the concept of “longing for death” is generally considered harmful or sinful, as it can be seen as a rejection of life’s purpose or divine will.
   Afterlife Beliefs: For individuals who believe in an afterlife, death might be viewed as a transition to a better existence. In this case, the longing for death might be framed more as a desire for spiritual fulfillment or reunion with loved ones who have passed, rather than a rejection of life itself. Some religious people may look forward to death as a means of peace and eternal life, particularly in the context of suffering or old age.
   
4. The Role of Death in Art and Literature:
   Many artists, writers, and philosophers throughout history have explored death as a central theme. In some cases, the portrayal of death in literature or art is a reflection of the human tendency to confront and contemplate mortality, rather than an expression of longing for it. Shakespeare, for example, in his famous “To be or not to be” soliloquy from Hamlet, delves into the existential conflict of life versus death, questioning the value of enduring suffering versus the mystery of what lies beyond.
   Poetry and Music: Many poets and musicians have explored the desire for death as a metaphor for emotional turmoil, loneliness, or the end of a painful experience. These creative explorations can provide an outlet for expressing complex emotions about life and death.
   
5. Biological Perspectives:
   From a biological standpoint, human beings are wired for survival. Our brains are structured to resist death and seek out opportunities for self-preservation. Neurochemicals like dopamine and serotonin play a significant role in our mental well-being, and the experience of pleasure and connection often counterbalances any thoughts of wanting to die.
   That said, stress and trauma can influence brain chemistry, and this can lead to feelings of hopelessness or a desire to escape life’s burdens. However, this does not mean that humans inherently long for death—it’s often a reaction to overwhelming negative circumstances.
   
6. The Desire for Change or Transformation:
   For some, longing for death can be a metaphor for wanting a profound change or transformation in life. People may long for a “death” of their old selves, or the end of a painful phase, as a means of starting anew. This is more about the desire for rebirth or transformation rather than an actual desire for physical death.

Conclusion
While some individuals may experience moments of longing for death, especially during periods of intense emotional or physical pain, it is usually a reflection of suffering, disillusionment, or existential questioning rather than a universal human desire. Most people, even those who experience depression or crisis, still have an intrinsic will to live and seek connection, hope, and healing. In many ways, the human drive is toward survival, growth, and meaning rather than toward death itself.

If you’re feeling like this is something you’re grappling with, know that it’s important to talk to someone you trust or seek professional help. You’re not alone, and there is support out there.

What’s your take on this—do you think that people long for death, or is it more a longing for relief from life’s struggles?

DeepSeek (AI), January 2025:The question of whether human beings long for death is deeply complex and varies greatly depending on individual circumstances, psychological states, cultural beliefs, and life experiences. While most people have an innate drive to survive and thrive, there are situations where individuals may experience a longing for death. Here’s a nuanced exploration of this topic:

1. The Will to Live:
   – Survival Instinct: Humans, like all living beings, are generally wired to survive. This is driven by biological instincts and evolutionary mechanisms.
   – Pursuit of Meaning: Many people find purpose and fulfillment in life, which motivates them to continue living despite challenges.

2. Situations Where Longing for Death May Arise:
   1. Mental Health Struggles:
   – Conditions like depression, anxiety, or PTSD can lead to feelings of hopelessness or a desire to escape emotional pain.
   – Example: Suicidal ideation is often a symptom of severe depression.2. Chronic Pain or Illness:
   – Individuals suffering from debilitating or terminal illnesses may experience a longing for death as a release from physical suffering.
   – Example: Some advocate for euthanasia or assisted dying in such cases.

   3. Existential Crisis:
   – Questions about the meaning of life, feelings of insignificance, or a sense of futility can lead some to contemplate death.
   – Example: Philosophers like Albert Camus explored the tension between the human search for meaning and the apparent absurdity of existence.

   4. Trauma or Loss:
   – Experiencing extreme trauma, grief, or loss can lead to a desire to escape the pain associated with living.
   – Example: Survivors of war, abuse, or catastrophic events may struggle with such feelings.

   5. Cultural or Spiritual Beliefs:
   – In some cultures or belief systems, death is seen as a transition to a better state, which may lead to a longing for it.
   – Example: Certain religious or spiritual traditions view death as a reunion with a higher power or a release from the cycle of suffering.

3. The Role of Hope and Resilience:
   – Hope: Even in dire circumstances, many people find reasons to hope, whether through relationships, faith, or personal goals.
   – Resilience: Human beings have a remarkable capacity to adapt and find meaning, even in the face of suffering.

4. Ethical and Philosophical Considerations:
   – Right to Die: Debates around euthanasia and assisted suicide highlight the ethical complexities of longing for death in cases of unbearable suffering.
   – Sanctity of Life: Many cultures and belief systems emphasize the inherent value of life, discouraging the longing for death.

5. Seeking Help:
   – If you or someone you know is experiencing a longing for death, it’s important to seek help from mental health professionals, counselors, or support groups.
   – Resources like crisis hotlines (e.g., 988 in the U.S.) can provide immediate assistance.

Conclusion
While most human beings are driven by a will to live, there are circumstances—such as mental health struggles, chronic pain, or existential crises—where individuals may long for death. This longing is often a cry for relief from suffering rather than a true desire for nonexistence. Understanding and addressing the root causes of such feelings, whether through support, treatment, or philosophical exploration, is crucial for fostering well-being and resilience. If you or someone you know is struggling, reaching out for help is a vital step toward healing.

To coincide with the exhibition, 81 Questions – a series of 81 hand-signed and embossed screen prints featuring the 81 questions posed by Ai Weiwei – are available exclusively on CIRCA.ART for £500+VAT.

“Each Lego brick pixel represents a person”, says Ai Weiwei, who incorporates the plastic construction toy – a readymade material incorporated into many of his most recent works – into his print design for the first time. The black egalitarian pixel font and embossed baseplate combine technology with artisanal craft to create this thought-provoking and playful reflection on today’s world. Each print in the series of 81 Questions is hand-signed and numbered by the artist in editions of 81.