In the study of religion and philosophy, one of the most key concepts is the notion of the 4 Noble Truths of Buddhism. The 4 Noble Truths are meant to help guide and protect individuals from the negative aspects of this earthly life. While on the surface, the 4 Noble Truths may seem quite depressing and pessimistic, they are simply a very pragmatic way to look at life as it is today and will remain for centuries to come.
The first Noble Truth is that suffering is a known and unavoidable aspect of human life. Everything in this world is imperfect and imbalanced, from the way that humans interact with one another to the forces of nature. This imperfection will result in suffering in the form of aging, sickness, injury and death, as well as mental suffering such as sadness, depression, and loss. The second Noble Truth states that the origin of suffering is attachment to fragile, transient things, such as inanimate objects, loved ones, and feelings of pleasure. The loss of these things is inevitable, yet human nature causes individuals to remain attached to them nonetheless. The third Noble Truth states that there is a means available to end suffering through the unmaking of the craving and attachment to sensual or conceptual things, while the fourth Noble Truth details the Buddha’s Eightfold Path to happiness.