An essay analyzing the Sardanapalian lifestyle from an Indian perspective

C.Manikandan, MA Philosophy, B.Tech Biotechnology
(Edited with the help of AI writing tools)

Abstract:
This essay defines the term, ‘Sardanapalian’, its etymology and explores how it differs from other related terms like ‘Sesualist’, ‘Materialist/hedonist’. It then deals with questions of how an ‘idealist’ views a Sardanapalian lifestyle leading person and why he views so. It then dwells to fundamental questions of how the term ’sense’ can be defined and how other living beings in this planet, use their senses, in stark contrast to human beings. It then brings out the perspectives of few famous philosophers like John Locke and David Hume, along with the likes of few reformed people who changed lanes in Eastern philosophy and how ancient materialists defended themselves and modern Sardanapalain people will present their defense.

Introduction to Terms and Comparison:

In this essay, the following states of being are considered: a materialist, an idealist, a sensualist, and a Sardanapalian person.

An idealist in philosophy posits that the intellect is the highest ordeal in the world. The human mind is a gift that can acquire knowledge and create beauty and artistic advancements through proper resources and training. Regrettably, it is challenging to erase the impressions acquired through the senses, as they shape a character or impart knowledge.

A materialist believes that possessions and physical comfort are of highest value. While a materialist may lead a conventional life, they may not indulge in excessive indulgences.

A sensualist prioritizes sensual pleasures, particularly sexual pleasures, as the highest ordeal in the world. They possess the ability to maintain control over their actions.

An alcoholic is an individual who acts under the influence of alcohol and may profess knowledge of controlling and overcoming the habit, whose veracity is uncertain.

A sober person is a non-alcoholic individual who embodies seriousness, solemnity, and reason.

When an individual indulges in excessive sensual pleasures to the point of self-destruction, they are said to be leading a Sardanapalian lifestyle. However, the case of fictional Marvel characters like Iron Man or Batman, who lead double lives exhibiting Sardanapalian nature while performing heroic acts in secrecy, is not considered here.

Etymology and Usage of the Term “Sardanapalian:

The term “Sardanapalian” originates from the ancient Assyrian city of Sardanapalus, which was the capital of the Neo-Assyrian Empire. It is derived from the Persian word “Sardanapal,” which means “the palace of Sardanapalus.” The term has been used to describe a lifestyle characterized by excessive indulgence, sensuality, and a lack of restraint.

To comprehend the term “Sardanapalian,” it is imperative to grasp its etymology. The word originates from Greek mythology, where the king Sardanapalus indulged in excessive sensual pleasures to the point of self-immolation alongside his treasures when threatened by his adversaries. The term is derived from this emperor, denoting a lifestyle characterized by an extravagant and sensual nature. As an adjective, it functions similarly to words like “beautiful” or “ugly.” Therefore, using the word “Sardanapalian” in a sentence is grammatically correct, akin to using “generous,” whereas “He is a Sardanapalian” is incorrect, as the word is used as a noun like king. And “He leads a Sardanapalian lifestyle” is grammatically correct.

Comparing human senses with those of other organisms:

To comprehend the distinction between humans and other life forms on Earth regarding lifestyle, it is crucial to define the term “sense.” A sense is a sensory mechanism employed by an organism to gather information about its surroundings. Unlike animals that utilize senses for survival, humans primarily rely on them for gratification. The human senses encompass sight, hearing, touch, smell, taste, and cognition.

In contrast, other life forms on Earth may possess fewer senses than humans. For instance, earthworms, despite lacking eyes, possess photoreceptors that enable them to perceive light and darkness. Similarly, insects, without ears, can detect vibrations transmitted through solid objects. While earthworms lack a nose, they possess the ability to sense and taste food. Their sole sense organ is their skin, which provides a sense of touch and tactility.

It is noteworthy that the sense organs of earthworms are not fully developed compared to humans. Consequently, a mechanism primarily used for gathering information and survival is repurposed for indulgence and pleasure seeking, often to the extent of self-destruction. This raises questions about the nature of human behavior and its potential consequences.

From a religious conservative perspective, this tendency towards excessive indulgence aligns with their tenets. They argue that even if all substances could be consumed in moderation for happiness, the human mind, free will, or inherent inclination towards evil can lead to excessive consumption and self-destruction. Therefore, adhering to fundamental principles is considered more prudent.

Arguments against Sardanapalian individuals:

Additionally, it could be argued that a person leading a Sardanapalian lifestyle could corrupt the morality of others by creating doubt (skepticism) in the minds of ordinary individuals regarding their ideals. The immunity that such an individual possesses to such excesses could be compromised by negative precedents. Whether this lifestyle liberates an individual by exploring their hidden potential or serves as a negative precedent by leading to a Sardanapalian lifestyle is difficult to discern. King Sardanapalus, having emerged from his shell, burned down his treasures with him. If a person leads a Sardanapalian lifestyle, it may be challenging for them to reintegrate into society, as their worldview could collapse, akin to the reaction of a rational individual been questioned of his sanity. Consequently, the question arises: is a Sardanapalian person someone who must be disliked for being themselves, akin to other organisms in the world? Should they coexist with individuals who identify as normal? Should they conform to religious beliefs? Ultimately, it is their life, and they may be the odd one out among their group, similar to the position of Cārvaka in ancient India, who were criticized for their materialistic views.

How did materialists (ancient Cārvaka) and later contemporary materialists defend themselves?

When questioned about their materialist beliefs, some individuals may cite the example of Socrates, who declined to apologize during his trial. This led him to choose death by drinking hemlock as a means of protest. Socrates stands in stark contrast to King Sardanapalus, who chose to die alongside his treasures.

Does this necessitate the reform of any particular group of individuals? It would be a narrow-minded perspective to believe that nothing noble can be achieved by a person who undergoes a transformative experience. There are numerous examples in literature that illustrate this point. For instance, Jean Valjean, a character in Victor Hugo’s ‘Les Misérables’ (1862), undergoes a profound transformation and ultimately becomes a successful businessman. Similarly, Ophelia St. Clare, portrayed in Harriet Beecher Stowe’s ‘Uncle Tom’s Cabin’ (1852), overcomes her racial prejudices and becomes a symbol of redemption.

In India, there are numerous examples of individuals who underwent significant transformations and achieved remarkable feats. In Shaiva Siddhanta, there is the story of Kannappa Nayanar, a hunter who became an ardent Shiva worshipper. Another notable example is the Jain monk who renounced his worldly life to write the Tamil epic ‘Silapathigaram’ (Ilankō adigal). Even a thief, Valmiki, composed the epic ‘Valmiki-Ramayana’.

Therefore, if necessary, individuals can undergo personal transformations and achieve their desired goals. There may not always be a need for reforming or criticizing specific groups or sections. If a reformation is required, the individual concerned will take responsibility for their own growth and change.

This argument can also be applied to a Sardapalian individual, such as King Sardanapalus, who refused to apologize like Socrates. Therefore, he does not need to be subjected to the same level of scrutiny and legal proceedings as Socrates. This approach is similar to the case of Larry Flynt, who faced legal challenges but ultimately emerged victorious.

In contemporary society, self-help groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) provide support for individuals struggling with alcoholism, including those on the verge of self-destruction due to excessive drinking. These groups offer valuable resources for individuals seeking to overcome addiction and lead healthier lives. Additionally, self-help books written by individuals who have successfully quit drinking and undergone personal transformation can be beneficial for those seeking guidance and inspiration. These reformed individuals serve as role models for society, demonstrating that it is possible to overcome challenges and lead fulfilling lives. Furthermore, psychiatrists and physicians play a crucial role in providing medical assistance and guidance to individuals seeking help.

It is important to note that individuals who indulge in their passions, such as gourmet food connoisseurs, should not be labeled as “Sardanapalian” simply because they enjoy their indulgences excessively. Their actions are their own, and they possess the expertise and skill to engage in their chosen pursuits. Experts in their respective fields should not be subjected to judgment or criticism. This principle serves as a defense mechanism for individuals who may be perceived as materialistic or indulgent.

Unanswered questions:

What are the appropriate boundaries for personal enjoyment and what constitutes excessive indulgence?
How should we balance the need for personal fulfillment with the responsibility of maintaining a healthy lifestyle?
Why does a person naturally exhibit Sardanapalian tendencies?
Why couldn’t he perceive the possibility of reform and personal growth, benefiting himself and those around him?
If it can be argued that he requires guidance, mentorship, or professional assistance from a well-trained physician, psychiatrist, or someone who adheres to a principle or a supreme being, or a group, is radical transformation necessary?
How could a thief undergo radical transformation, compose an epic that has endured for centuries and been praised?
Aren’t there individuals who maintain control over their habits and serve as role models by leading fulfilling lives?
Aren’t there superior ideals in society beyond sensual pleasures?
Is it imperative for a person to undergo complete transformation?
A hypocrite can apply double standards and live without consequence, unlike a Sardanapalian who adheres to a single principle and faces consequences. Is it bad then for a person to be Sardanapalian?
Could Vatsayana be labeled as a hedonist or materialist who solely propagated sensual pleasures through his work on Kamasutra, without taking into account his other commentaries in Sanskrit literature?




A comparison with normal individuals and the mind:

At some point in their lives, every normal individual with a good education and family may feel disoriented and uncertain about their place in the world and the role of education and family in their life. This sense of disorientation can be likened to Meinong’s jungle, a realm of non-existent objects such as unicorns, a mythical animal typically depicted as a horse with a single horn. This concept of Meinong’s jungle can be used to illustrate the idea of questioning one’s sanity.
The mind is often described as a tabula rasa, a blank slate, as proposed by John Locke in his work “An Essay concerning Human Understanding” (1669). Locke argued that the mind is born without any innate ideas, as per the philosophical doctrine of innatism. This raises the question of where all knowledge originates.

David Hume proposed that all knowledge comes from sensations and reflections, which can be guided by the regular succession of events. He suggested that these reflections may not necessarily correspond to objective reality but rather to mental habits. An individual may feel that they have not committed any wrong actions and that their free will allows them to live a free life.

What constitutes dishonor after becoming a Sardanapalian person?

If an individual categorizes the entire human race as Sardanapalian from a narrow-minded perspective, there is an inherent flaw in the concept of being Sardanapalian. Alternatively, if the individual blames his country and people for his Sardanapalian nature, and being disliked or failure to get an acknowledgment from an educated class or social community, for the perceived flaw in his character, then there is a dishonor after becoming a Sardanapalian person. If the individual discusses virtues and vices in people or things while embodying the Sardanapalian nature, it suggests a character flaw that has been brought forth by this nature. When the senses are gratified excessively, the individual indulging in such behavior may become lost amidst the chaos, experience negative emotions, or repent for their actions, leading to self-doubt. Even if presented with an opportunity to indulge in their immaterial self, highly valued by philosophers, mystics, and scholars, they may be unable to appreciate it. The individual may profess the essence of the soul as Socrates while alive but may carry their Sardanapalian nature into their next realm of existence unfortunately.

Conclusion:

While pleasure is an integral aspect of human nature, historical and literary figures demonstrate that some succumb to the Sardanapalian lifestyle, while others undergo transformations that benefit themselves, their society, or future generations. The extent of transformation depends on self-awareness, external influences, and the nature of desire itself. Furthermore, the necessity of such transformation is a crucial consideration. This analysis presents the perspective of an individual leading a Sardanapalian lifestyle, defining the terms, contrasting them with related concepts, and incorporating philosophical perspectives. Ultimately, as Heraclitus famously stated, everything is in flux, and the balance between indulgence and restraint shapes the course of one’s life. Thanks for reading!