Sinn und Geschichte: An den Grenzen der Machbarkeit

The aim of this chapter is to examine the possibilities and limitations of quest for meaning regarding one’s personal history. In our plans to accomplish objectives, purposeful actions and aspirations we are often confined by internal and external limitations. The author identifies two types of delimitations: first, obstacles that we encounter in the course of our life plan, and second, limits in the effort to find meaning in life. In this context, the paper makes reference to the proposals of Immanuel Kant, Karl Marx and Hannah Arendt. Regarding the fact that our lives tend to develop within the limits of meaning and understanding, the author sets out the main arguments and refers to exemplary positions.