Last season, a small group of us had a thread each week to discuss the philosophical issues raised in each week's episode of Lost. This is my attempt to revive that discussion. :) And for any newcomers, don't let the thread title scare you. While some actual philosophers do get mentioned from time to time, we used "philosophy" pretty loosely.

The line that stood out to me most last night was Eko's statement, "Do not mistake coincidence for fate." Another thread (with this line a subject line) discusses the differences between coincidence and fate--but then the thread moves to a discussion of faith. So some questions about coincidence and fate?

Was finding the spliced film coincidence or fate and why?
Are the Lostaways in a coincidental situation or a fated one?
If one cannot tell what is fated and what is coincidental, does it make a difference which it is?

And if you have any other philosophical questions, feel free to add them. Cheers.

I dont' think we have enough information to determine what is fate and what is coincidence. However, I think it does make a difference to someone if they decide that an incident is fate rather than coincidence because it makes them feel better. Fate means that some higher power has a design and what happened to you is all part of that grand design. No matter what you coulda/woulda/shoulda that incident would have happened. But, if it is coincidence, then you start to thinking - what if I had.... or maybe I should have.... Maybe I could have... It would be enough to drive you nuts.

For our Losties, it would be more soothing to believe they were fated to be on the island. That's why Locke is so serene. Another example of a serene person is Rose. However, I really believe that she falls somewhere in between fate and coincidence. I think she is one of those that just accepts what has happened, no matter what, and goes on about the business of living.

If one cannot tell what is fated and what is coincidental, does it make a difference which it is?


I love this question.
First, neither one is provable. It all depends on what you believe.
Does it make a difference?
Yes, Why? Because if you believe in fate as Locke does. You will let what is happening around you be your guide. Good, bad or other wise.
If you think it is coincidence. You will step up and change your direction if needed.

The most important question: Was Kate fated to be bad, as her "father" implied and she herself believed?