The interplay of the intellect and will with the sensitive dimensions of man is a central theme of the books, “Screwtape Letters” and “Man’s Search for Meaning”.
In Screwtape Letters, we see that in order to draw someone away from God, Screwtape urges Wormwood to prey on the delicate aspects of the human soul, such as emotions, wants, and physical sensations. He also acknowledges that a person’s intelligence and will play a significant role in their ability to withstand temptation and make the right decision to serve God. Screwtape is aware that the human mind is capable of seeing through the devil’s lies and tricks. He cautions Wormwood against using arguments that a person’s intellect can quickly disprove because this could lead the audience member to question the devil’s power.
Screwtape recognises the importance of the human will in avoiding temptation and making the right decision to follow God, nonetheless. In order to make it easier for the person to succumb to temptation, he encourages Wormwood to work on weakening the person’s will. He is aware that a strong will can withstand temptation and even turn away from sin.
In “Man’s Search for Meaning”, the interplay of the intellect, will, and sensitive aspects of man, such as the emotions and senses, is seen in its depth and richness. Emotions, such as joy, sorrow, love, and fear, colour our experiences and influence our perceptions of meaning. Senses, such as sight, sound, touch, taste, and smell, allow us to engage with the world and gain sensory input that can contribute to our understanding of meaning.
The interplay between the intellect and will with the sensitive dimensions of man can manifest in various ways in the search for meaning.
For instance, in order to define and pursue personal values and objectives that are consistent with our sense of meaning, the will, as the power of decision and action, is essential. The will can motivate us to act and make decisions that are compatible with our quest for meaning, while the intellect can assist us in thinking through our values and setting meaningful goals.
The intellect can also assist us in examining our views, values, and assumptions about meaning and evaluating them in the context of reason and available data. So, the will gives us the ability to make decisions that are consistent with our logical interpretation of meaning and to act accordingly.
Emotions, such as awe, wonder, and inspiration, can evoke a sense of meaning and purpose in our lives. The intellect, in turn, can help us understand and interpret these emotional experiences, and the will can drive us to pursue and cultivate those experiences that bring us a sense of meaning.
In conclusion, the interplay of the intellect and will with the sensitive dimensions of man in “Man’s Search for Meaning involves a dynamic and complex interaction between cognitive, emotional, sensory, and volitional aspects of human nature. While in “The Screwtape Letters“, the author highlights the importance of the intellect and will in the spiritual battle for the human soul. The sensitive dimensions of the human soul can be used to lead a person astray, but a strong intellect and will can help them resist temptation and choose the path towards God.
You only live Once