An Opposing View to Universal Desire

When considering the most basic acceptances embedded within human nature, it can be cautiously stated that as divine creatures, we seek companionship throughout life when our circumstances permit. In its most basic form, love and the condition that is often associated with it, is the cornerstone of all existence as it is today. Thus, it seems logical that one in a beneficial position to foster the seed of companionship would freely choose to do so. However, such is often not the case in reality. More often, it is the very ones that are expected to set sights on a relationship that stray the furthest away from any social engagement. This principle is boggling to those in a severely dissimilar position, however appears most practical to those that are surrounded with endless opportunities and nonexistent motivation.

Accordingly, Jane Austen's famous quote "It is a truth universally acknowledged that a single man in possession of a good fortune must be in want of a wife." (Pride & Prejudice, p.1) can be directly contrasted with modern society. To become fully cognizant of such a proposition, one must analyze those more fortunate bachelors of modern times. A fine example of an opposing argument lies within the biographies of single men across the spectrum. One must understand that the methods used to gain personal wealth are all too often conflicting with relational matters. Status is much like an orchid, requiring daily tending, maintenance, and undivided attention. This presents a problem when social contract is established, as it too requires attention and nurturing. Thus, we are presented with a distinct choice that must be made in order to maintain one or the other.

Furthermore, one must also examine the nature of each individual case. Binding statements, such as the one referenced above, are far too holistic to stand as a representative for the masses. The desires of one cannot be directly paralleled to the desires of all with great accuracy. The unique personality of each individual lends itself to a given situation- a preferable scenario in life. It is perfectly acceptable to state one's desire to remain free of union and maintain the lifestyle of the present. While communion is embedded into human nature, the desire for constant, permanent, unyielding attachments is not. A universal statement of intent is not acceptable in a legal since nor in the social realm and it is exceptionally hauteur to assume such.

While we must maintain the acceptable desire for fellowship, it is necessary to establish the overzealous nature of assuming universal desires. It follows that we are quick to assume the conceptualizations of others and often over-rationalize reality. In modern times, as society is ever developing, the bathetic acceptances of the past are no longer applicable. Therefore, we must take each individual into consideration before offering general statements about the nature of human social behavior. As stated by Theodor Adorno, "...society, on the other hand, would not be a unitary state, but the realization of universality in the reconciliation of differences."