What gives meaning to our lives?

A study conducted by the Dutch newspaper Trouw in collaboration with Ipsos and UvA professor Digital Humanities Rens Bod explored how contemporary definitions of meaning (zingeving) have evolved over time. When participants were asked to define meaning, they provided various answers, but the research identified three common characteristics within the given definitions: it is often linked to connectedness (family, friends, or community), it encompasses meaningful actions—actions that have a positive impact on oneself or others—and it is linked to personal values and ideals.

One interesting finding was that meaning is increasingly associated with knowledge. Before secularization in the Netherlands during the 1960s, people tended not to question much and instead followed what had been prescribed by the church. Recent findings show how we have moved away from these religious institutions and now find meaning in knowledge. The study found that 68% of Dutch respondents believe in the statement: “You are never too old to learn; therefore, I continue to develop myself,” with an additional 25% considering this somewhat important.

In both the definitions people give for meaning and the sources they cite, there is a reflection of a societal change that has been ongoing for some time—transitioning toward a knowledge-based society.

The researchers defined 6 groups of people and how they find meaning, curious to find out to which you belong?

Take the test here (in Dutch)