Waseda University Study Explores Life’s Meaning Through New Model

Psychological and philosophical research has long indicated that subjective emotions significantly shape how individuals perceive the “meaning in life.” A recent study by Professor Masahiro Morioka at Waseda University proposes an innovative approach to this complex topic, introducing the “Geographic Model of Meaning in Life,” published online in the journal Philosophia on June 4, 2025.

Professor Morioka’s study builds on the work of philosopher Matthew Ratcliffe, who emphasized that a person’s mood plays a crucial role in their understanding of life’s significance. The research not only investigates the external world but also examines how individuals experience meaning in their lives. This approach diverges from traditional debates that categorize life’s meaning as either subjective, objective, or a combination of both.

The study focuses on how “meaning in life” evolves through the interplay between a person’s lived experiences and their aspirations. Morioka proposes that one’s exploration of life, shaped by attitudes and commitments, generates diverse responses to life’s significance. These responses can manifest as feelings of fulfillment or despair, forming a complex geographical landscape of human experience.

Morioka articulates this concept, stating, “The geographic model of meaning in life is the whole set of patterns of combinations of lived experiences of the worthfulness of living a life that are experienced being activated by my action of probing into my life in the here and now.” He likens this probing to a blind person navigating their surroundings with a cane, suggesting that various attitudes—positive, negative, or reluctant—can influence how individuals perceive the worth of their lives.

The study marks a significant shift in understanding “meaning in life” by treating both meaningful and tragic experiences as integral components of the same experiential landscape. By incorporating phenomenological methodology, Morioka aims to bridge the gap between philosophy and psychology, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration.

Furthermore, existing psychological frameworks for measuring life meaning often rely on quantitative and qualitative scales that vary widely. Morioka’s geographic model offers a fresh perspective, potentially leading to new insights within psychology and related fields.

Looking towards the future, Morioka expressed his ambition to integrate this model with other philosophical approaches to the meaning of life, including solipsistic perspectives and frameworks focused on liberation and recollection. His goal is to develop a systematic framework that encompasses various methodologies in the philosophy of life’s meaning.

This research not only contributes to the academic discourse surrounding existential questions but also encourages a deeper understanding of how individuals navigate their lives and derive meaning from their experiences. As Morioka continues to explore this intricate subject, his work may pave the way for new theories and applications in both philosophy and psychology.