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Pursuit of the Happy Life: Lessons from Augustine’s Philosophy and “Machete Season”

Introduction

In Augustine’s philosophical work, “Free Choice of the Will,” he delves into the intricate concept of the happy life. Augustine argues that genuine happiness is achieved by aligning one’s will with God’s divine will. This alignment is facilitated through the exercise of free will, the selection of the good, and the presence of divine guidance. In this essay, we will apply Augustine’s ideas to the accounts of individuals in “Machete Season” across chapters 2, 4, and 12 to assess their success or failure in the pursuit of the happy life. We will also extract valuable lessons from their experiences for our own journey towards happiness.

Free Will and Personal Responsibility (Chapter 2)

In Chapter 2 of “Machete Season,” one of the men reflects on his role in the Rwandan genocide, demonstrating the exercise of free will. Augustine contends that humans possess free will, enabling them to make choices that shape their moral character. The man in this chapter acknowledges his participation in heinous acts and expresses remorse. This recognition of personal responsibility aligns with Augustine’s concept of free will. It signifies the potential for change and the choice to steer one’s life in a different direction.

Choosing the Good (Chapter 4)

Augustine emphasizes the importance of choosing the good as a fundamental aspect of the happy life. In Chapter 4 of “Machete Season,” another man recounts his involvement in acts of brutal violence. However, he begins to question the morality of his actions, reflecting Augustine’s belief in the primacy of choosing the good. This internal struggle to find happiness through the pursuit of goodness and righteousness reflects the transformative power of moral choices.

Divine Guidance and Redemption (Chapter 12)

Augustine posits that divine guidance is essential for discerning and pursuing true happiness. In Chapter 12 of “Machete Season,” the men have undergone a profound transformation. They recognize the moral shortcomings of their past actions and seek redemption. This transformation can be seen as a form of divine guidance or a realization of the need to align their will with a higher, more ethical purpose. Their journey signifies the influence of divine guidance in Augustine’s sense.

Conclusion

In evaluating the success or failure of individuals in “Machete Season” in their pursuit of the happy life, we must consider their alignment with Augustine’s philosophical framework. The man in Chapter 2 shows promise by acknowledging his past actions and expressing a desire for change. In Chapter 4, the internal questioning of one’s past actions indicates a step towards goodness and happiness, though the journey is ongoing. In Chapter 12, the profound transformation and quest for redemption demonstrate a significant shift towards the pursuit of a virtuous life.

The lessons derived from these individuals in “Machete Season” for our own pursuit of the happy life are profound. They remind us that even in the darkest circumstances, the choice to align our will with the good is possible. Augustine’s philosophy underscores the transformative power of free will, the importance of choosing the good, and the need for divine guidance in our quest for happiness. The men in “Machete Season” exemplify the complexities of this journey, showing that it is never too late to seek a more virtuous and happy life, even after engaging in terrible actions.

As we reflect on their experiences, we are challenged to consider our own choices and the path we are following. We must contemplate how we might align our will with the good, guided by a higher moral purpose, to ultimately find happiness in our lives.