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It is the question posed by every toddler who has just learned how to form letters into words. It is the question, when asked by philosophers, has the power to change how we view the world. It is no doubt the shortest question, often times responsible for igniting the longest of fiery debates. When queried about the most important question, my response not only answers, but also asks...why?

The toddler will ask, "Why is the sky blue?" And the parents' response will usually be tailored to that child's ability to receive knowledge - "Because God wanted to match your pretty blue eyes." The philosopher will ask, "Why do we have a sky?" The answer will be laced with logic and scientific reasoning. The creationist will ask the evolutionist, "Why don't you believe in the maker of the heavens?" The evolutionist will rebut with, "Why do you believe?"

The question of "why" has not only led us to where we are today technologically, but it has also given us a deeper understanding of who we are psychologically. "Why doesn't this machine work?" "Why doesn't this person's mind work?" As we delve into the intricacies of mind and matter uncovering their mysteries we are perpetually faced with the continuing curiosity of, "Why doesn't it work better?"

We are faced with several questions on a daily basis, but none as important as the question of "why". No matter which decision we need to make, which quandary we want to resolve, or which fast food restaurant we want to drive thru, we first need to ask ourselves, "Why is this important to me?" Our answers can often times be reflected by the degree of importance we place on the matter, so it should not be until we've defined that degree of importance, that we should offer an answer to any question.

Some people hate questions, especially the question "why". That is usually because they don't have an answer for you and feel inadequate in their intelligence. The most common response to too many questions is usually another question - "Didn't you know curiosity killed the cat?" But did you ever ask why curiosity killed the cat? I suppose you could ask the cat during one of his remaining eight lives.

Learn more about this author, Curtis Hahn.
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