In the Myth of Sisyphus, especially in the handling by Albert Camus, we encounter an example of someone who's most basic desires in life go unmet. Sisyphus, punished by the gods for his impiety, is condemned to repeatedly push a boulder to the top of a mountain only to have it roll back down again, forcing him to begin the toil again. This endless labor in the midst of unrequited desires is meant to signify the general futility of life. It underlines, in its own way, the Stoic view of the universe. Against a more nihilistic view, however, Camus insisted that we must consider Sisyphus happy. Camus, often called an existentialist, was not satisfied with the existentialist's explanation of the universe. He believed we could--that we must--find meaning in even the most absurd existence. 

In different ways, both Admiral James Stockdale and Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks agree with Camus. They believe not only that we must find meaning against the absuridity--and indeed the horrors--of existence, but that we can find meaning. That it's already been given to us. 

READ THIS

James Stockdale, “Courage Under Fire”

WATCH THIS (Optional)

Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks on Human evil, resilience, and faith in suffering

Reflect on these ideas:

1. How do the different philosophical readings we've engaged compare and contrast in the way they contend with the problem of human evil? 
2. Rabbi Sacks suggests that (misused) human freedom is a primary cause of suffering in the world. At the same time, he at least tacitly suggests that human goodness and responsibility -- including in respecting the human dignity of others -- would alleviate vast quantities of human suffering. What is the connection between a failure of human duty and human suffering? What is the connection between our own virtue and the flourishing of others? 
3. What are various arguments for how to respond to human evil and overwhelming suffering in our lives? What do you find convincing? 
4. How does Rabbi Sacks' reflections on Auschwitz compare or contrast with Admiral Stockdale's essay?