Tolstoy’s “The Death of Ivan Ilych” Forum #2—Our Culture

The “Right Life” List—Our Culture

As we read previously, all of us, likely from birth, “breathe in” our culture—particularly the rules and guidelines we are to follow if we want to lead a successful life. Of course, each culture has its own unique “atmosphere” and definition of “successful.” One culture might indoctrinate its members with a set of religious beliefs that will lead them to success; another culture might emphasize respect for elders and ancestors.

Now it’s time to turn our attention to our culture.

Here’s what to do:

First, review the Believe-and-Do-These-Things-and-You-Will-Live-a-Successful-Life List that Ivan Ilych was given and by which he lived, the one you posted to the earlier forum.

Then create a similar list, but one that would apply to our culture. Ask yourself what attitudes and behaviors does our culture teach us if we want to live “The Right Life.” In other words, what is our culture’s definition of “The Right Life”?

How similar and/or different is our list from Ilych’s?

Please post your four or five beliefs to this second forum.

DIRECTIONS for Tolstoy Forum #2—our culture:

3. Please post your four or five beliefs to this forum.

4. Throughout the next week, please return to the forum occasionally, and respond to at least two other postings. The goal is to create a dialogue.