The Cave of Apelles Einar Duenger Bøhn on Aristotle’s Tëchne, Objective Values and the Meaning of Life
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Mar 15, 2020 
Einar Duenger Bøhn, a philosophy professor and author who defends objective values and Aristotle’s concept of techne. He explores the Sisyphus myth, argues that the potential for improvement gives life meaning, and discusses objective standards in art, craft, and moral judgment. Short, sharp takes on mastery, failure, and why improvement matters.
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Van Gogh As Example Of Meaning Without Happiness
- Van Gogh illustrates meaning can exist without happiness or morality because he painted obsessively despite suffering.
- Bøhn recounts Van Gogh's unhappy, immoral life yet intense obsession with improving his art as a meaningful driver.
Meaning Comes From Potential For Improvement
- The point of continuing life is the potential for improvement rather than happiness or moral duty.
- Einar Duenger Bøhn argues Sisyphus feels pointless because his labor has no room for improvement, so improvement potential gives a reason to go on.
Weigh Meaning Against Practical Survival
- Weigh conflicts of value when passion clashes with practical survival; recognize that aesthetic meaning can justify personal sacrifice.
- Bøhn recommends acknowledging real justification for pursuing a demanding artistic project even if it causes economic hardship.
