Person through the prism of the symbolism of birth and death in culture

The aim of this work is to explore models of human existence in culture in accordance with the phenomena of birth and death, which allow individuals to determine their place in the chaos of values. Focusing on one of these phenomena enables discussions about gender orientations within it (R. Eisler) or moments of displacement and return (J. Baudrillard). Ignoring these aspects reproduces a situation characteristic of mass culture, while awareness of them can become a condition for authentic existence (M. Heidegger). Thus, patriarchal culture emphasizes the significance of the theme of survival, the masculine principle (J. Campbell), and heroic and sacrificial death (on the battlefield or on the cross), as recorded in myths and sacred texts, which leads to the displacement of the female model of existence. However, with the improvement of living conditions, the importance of partnership culture grows, with its values of birth, childhood, and life as such (M. Gimbutas, M. Murdock). Here, the emphasis can be placed on either increased consumption (mass culture), which devalues all things, including birth and death, or on the change in the quality of human life (the culture of personal transformation). The analysis of the research subject, along with a comparative-historical method, allows us to trace the position of humans, the cyclicality of cultural change processes, and to notice their coexistence in the space of modern society. Today, cultures in Asia, Africa, and Latin America, where the birth rate is highest, have a greater focus on survival, with more youth and streams of migrants fleeing wars to more developed countries in search of a better life. The "conservative turn" in recent politics indicates a rise in belligerence and a less friendly attitude towards migrating peoples. This phenomenon can be viewed as a manifestation of the "clash of civilizations," as described by S. Huntington. On the other hand, the culture of the future, according to E. Toffler, is oriented towards a more responsible youth, less fixated on themselves and their own consumption. Thus, today we see manifestations of different models of existence within the same space. These can include focuses on mass culture, which is based on quantitative characteristics, endless consumption, and the devaluation of things. In survival societies, attention is directed towards the traditions of large families, self-sacrifice, and heroism on the battlefield. Conformity is assumed here as one of the main ways of responding to changes. However, such human values as birth and/or death can become adequate aspects of personal transformation, enhancing the quality of life itself, and the ability to respond to various challenges in the world. An important foundation for this can be found in early religious-philosophical (Buddhism, Taoism, Stoicism), modern philosophical (for example, existential), as well as scientific concepts (for example, humanistic or existential psychology), which can become part of a person's life. The author declares no conflicts of interests.

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