Why are some things profound?
I asked ChatGPT what makes something profound. I thought the answer (lightly edited here) was interesting.
Something profound is deep and significant in nature, and it often has the power to transform how we think or feel. Some factors that can contribute to something's profundity include:
- ORIGINALITY. Something that is novel or original can be profound when it challenges our preconceived notions and forces us to think in new ways.
- INSIGHTFUL. Something that offers insight on a complex or important issue or idea can be profound when it helps us to understand in a more meaningful way.
- EMOTIONAL DEPTH. Something that evokes powerful emotions, or speaks to our shared human experience, may be profound, allowing us to connect with others on a deeper level.
- UNIVERSALITY. Something that is universal in nature, or speaks to common experiences and themes shared by all people, can be profound, by allowing us to see ourselves and our place in the world in a new light.
- PERSISTENCE. Something that stays with us long after we encounter it, and continues to inspire or challenge us, can be profound, as it has the ability to impact our thoughts and actions over time.
Profound (adj.)
- (of a state, quality, or emotion) very great or intense
- (of a person or statement) having or showing great knowledge or insight
- (of a subject or thought) demanding deep study or thought
