A worldview is how we see the world and understand the meaning of life. It shapes our perspective on ourselves, the world, and the supernatural. Our worldview is like a philosophical and spiritual foundation that helps us navigate life’s challenges. It serves as the basis for all the choices we make.

“A worldview is a commitment, a fundamental orientation of the heart, that can be expressed as a story or in a set of presuppositions (assumptions which may be true, partially true or entirely false) that we hold (consciously or subconsciously, consistently or inconsistently) about the basic constitution of reality, and that provides the foundation on which we live and move and have our being.”

Dr. James W. Sire, The Universe Next Door, p. 20

Worldviews encompass a collection of concepts regarding the nature of reality. Ultimately, there exists a Reality independent of our perceptions; however, due to our finite knowledge, it is possible to misinterpret Reality or consciously exist within a self-constructed reality, disregarding any conflicting evidence. Nevertheless, the ultimate Reality perseveres, awaiting our discovery, if attainable. Dr. Sire mentioned presuppositions. These are abstract assumptions that profoundly and pervasively shape our worldview from a foundational level. Presuppositions are the basis for the reasons why we do or think. Presuppositions cannot be proved, and are the ultimate source of bias.

The metaphor of comparing worldview with a lens provides a compelling way to understand how different perspectives can shape our perception of reality. Just as different lenses refract light in unique ways, different worldviews can influence how we interpret and interact with the world around us. This analogy allows us to appreciate the diverse ways in which individuals can perceive and understand reality based on their unique worldview. By recognizing that worldviews act as cognitive filters, we can develop a deeper understanding and empathy for the varied perspectives we encounter in our interactions with others. It is important to be gentle with worldviews. Nobody likes their worldview to be challenged, because if a worldview is discarded, they lose their sense of place and identity in life.

When we look at something, we may wonder as to the meaning of it. The adoption of a worldview provides necessary context (a sense of place or setting) for understanding what we perceive. Thus, a worldview is essential for one to have meaning in life. Without a worldview, one’s only reference is oneself, and this results in confusion and meaninglessness. It seems to be a fact that humans have an innate desire to live a meaningful life, to make our existence worthwhile. Those who want to avoid the bigger picture of life tend towards escapism through continual drugging, meditating, gaming, and consuming of media. Yet even in these cases, the meaning of life for such is to simply enjoy life through alternate realities. The meaning of true Reality is avoided. Personally, I see such an approach as unfulfilling. There has to be more to life than being a couch potato.

Ultimately, our worldview, how we perceive Reality and understand the meaning of life, depends on four foundational presuppositions: Being (nature of existence), Ontology (nature of reality), Epistemology (nature of knowledge), and Metaphysics (is there a supernatural?). These presuppositions will be covered in the next four posts.