What is metaphysics, really—and why should anyone care? Based on “Metaphysics Without the Yawn,” this Bridge Essay cracks open the so-called driest field in philosophy, showing how questions about reality, meaning, and value matter for education, science, daily life, and mentoring. If you’ve ever asked “what’s the point?” or “does this matter?”—you’re already thinking metaphysically. Here’s how to do it without the boredom, and why it’s urgent for everyone.

The emergence of Synthesis Intelligence (SI) has radically expanded the landscape of meaning and purpose, not just for technology, but for humanity itself. As we move into an era of close human–SI partnership, perennial existential questions—Why are we here? What does it mean to flourish?—demand to be revisited in this novel context.

Big Questions—queries addressing existence, truth, meaning, free will, and ethical responsibility—are foundational to existential inquiry, mentoring, and scientific progress.