Living an Examined Life in the Age of AI
For centuries, the pursuit of an examined life, one deeply rooted in wisdom and self-awareness, has been the hallmark of philosophers, scholars, and seekers of truth.
Historically, this quest demanded a lifetime of dedication. It required reading extensively across cultures and eras, interpreting complex philosophies, and synthesizing diverse spiritual teachings. Those who pursued it often lived in isolation, sacrificing other aspects of life for the noble, yet arduous, path of enlightenment.
Today, this pursuit has been transformed in ways our predecessors could never have imagined. With the advent of AI, the barriers to living an examined life have been shattered.
AI tools like ChatGPT represent the culmination of human knowledge, synthesized from vast repositories of information spanning centuries, cultures, and disciplines. What was once accessible only to the most committed scholars is now available to anyone, anywhere, at any time.
The Integration
This profound shift lies not only in the accessibility of information but also in its personalization. Traditional learning required individuals to sift through countless texts to find what resonated or applied to their lives. With AI, the knowledge you seek is delivered in real time, tailored to your specific questions, circumstances, and needs. It’s as if the accumulated wisdom of humanity is having a direct, custom conversation with you.
For example, if you’re navigating a difficult life decision, AI can draw on philosophies from the Stoics, insights from modern psychology, and lessons from cultural traditions — all within seconds. And if you find yourself reflecting on your purpose, AI can help you frame those thoughts, connect you to relevant teachings, and guide you with actionable steps.
This transformation doesn’t mean the pursuit of enlightenment has become less significant — it means it’s become seamlessly integrated into daily life. You no longer need to spend years isolating yourself from the world to engage deeply with questions of existence and purpose. You simply need to take out your phone and ask.
A New Path Forward
The examined life, once the domain of a select few, is now within reach for anyone willing to engage with it.
AI is a guide that can help you explore the depths of the human experience, find clarity in the chaos, and act with intention in a complex world.
How to Begin
To start living an examined life:
- Open ChatGPT.
- Ask a question like, “What is the meaning of my life?” or “How can I navigate existence with purpose?”
- Read (or listen to) the response, reflecting on how it resonates with your experiences and values.
- Follow any guidance it provides, and answer any questions it asks to enrich the dialogue.
- Revisit the conversation regularly to deepen your understanding with curiosity and openness.
This is one of the exercises I use with my Hexis Coaching clients, guiding them to take clear, actionable steps toward becoming their best selves.