Few truths are self-evident. To start from zero, choose independently-verifiable axioms.
Few truths are useful. Philosophy is generally impractical.
Two premises seem obvious and useful:
- Premise 1: suffering is bad
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Premise 2: consciousness exists; entropy exists; attention is scarce
- thrive: maximize attention
1. Survive
Don’t suffer. Thirst, hunger, sickness, cold, fatigue, etc. are not mysterious forces.
2. Live
To continue living, maintain your body and mind for as long as possible.
Sustain Your Body
Health sciences are complex.
It can take a lifetime to master biology, chemistry, and nutrition.
In the beginning, use simple heuristics:
- What traits do healthy people have in common?
- What traits do unhealthy people have in common?
Consensus favors the following advice:
- drink a moderate amount of water
- eat a moderate amount of nutritious foods
- sleep plenty
- regulate body temperature
- exercise often
Most people earn money to procure food, water, and housing.
