The Great American Think-off 2018

The Great American Think-Off is an exhibition of civil disagreement between powerful ideas that connect to your life at the gut level. The Cultural Center, located in the rural farm and manufacturing town of New York Mills, sponsors this annual philosophy contest. People of all ages and backgrounds are encouraged to submit an essay of no more than 750 words for a chance to win one of four $500 cash prizes and participate in the live debate to ultimately answer the question, determined by audience vote.

The Great American Think-off

Every year since 1993 this contest is run. The topic of discussion is new each year and always interesting. This years topic is: Which plays a larger role in shaping one’s life: success or failure?

Essays are limited to 750 words and can be submitted until April 1st. Check the website for all the details.

What do you think ATS? There are some great and philosophical minds here. It would be great to see someone from ATS win this.

This topic is also meant for discussion here.

My take on this, not having spent too much time mulling it over, is that failure teaches more than success. Success can come on the first try for the lucky. What has been learned from that? It is the trial and error, the lessons in humility and patience, the value of effort that are found in failure that shape the character. Success is easy to live with. Failure is not.

a reply to: Vroomfondel

Both play an equal role in shaping one's life. It depends on if you find the keys to success or the keys to failure. If you are successful then your life will be shaped in a successful way. If you are a failure then your life will also be shaped in a failing way.