The six-second hug

The Concept of Instrumentalisation and Its Implications

Imagine living in a world where everything you do is measured by its utility. This is the reality of instrumentalisation, where intrinsic values are overshadowed by extrinsic benefits. Julian Baggini's essay dives deep into this phenomenon, illustrating how our appreciation for art, relationships, and even nature has been reduced to mere tools for achieving personal gain. It’s a sobering thought: are we truly engaging with the world, or are we just checking boxes on a to-do list for self-improvement?

Art and Creativity Reduced to Health Benefits

Take a recent advertisement promoting the National Art Pass, which boldly claimed that engaging with art could help you live longer. This reduction of art to a mere health benefit exemplifies a broader trend where cultural activities are justified solely by their utilitarian outcomes. Baggini argues that this trend strips art of its intrinsic value, turning it into a commodity rather than an experience to be cherished for its own sake.

The Chilling Example of the Six-Second Hug

One of the most striking examples Baggini presents is from Gretchen Rubin’s "The Happiness Project," where a six-second hug is prescribed as a scientifically-backed method to boost mood through the release of oxytocin and serotonin. This chilling notion—that affection can be reduced to a formula for happiness—highlights how even our most intimate moments are being instrumentalised. It raises the question: when did love become a means to an end?

Instrumentalisation in Religion and Social Connections

Even religion, traditionally seen as a pursuit of the divine, is not immune. Baggini points out that many now cite health benefits as reasons for church attendance, undermining the spiritual essence of worship. This instrumentalisation extends to social relationships, where connections are valued not for their inherent worth but for what they can do for us. This shift in perspective can lead to a dehumanising view of others, treating them as mere tools for personal advancement.

The Intrinsic vs. Extrinsic Value Debate

At the heart of Baggini's argument is a philosophical inquiry into what constitutes value. He references Aristotle's distinction between means and ends, asserting that only activities pursued for their own sake possess intrinsic value. In contrast, wealth, health, and happiness—often seen as the ultimate goals—are merely means to achieve a fulfilling life. The danger lies in prioritising these extrinsic goods over the intrinsic joys of life.

The Consequences of Living an Instrumentalised Life

Living a life focused solely on instrumental gains can lead to emptiness. Baggini warns that this mindset not only distracts us from what truly matters but also strips meaningful activities of their value. When we engage with the world solely for personal gain, we risk losing sight of the beauty and richness of life itself. The ultimate takeaway? Life is not merely a training ground for future success; it’s a game that has already begun, and we must engage with it fully, appreciating the intrinsic value of our experiences.