Kant's theory of phenomenon and noumenon is explored through an analysis of the novel Henderson the Rain King. Phenomena are tangible objects experienced through the senses, while noumena refer to intangible concepts like emotions and the soul. The main character Henderson realizes his life has focused too much on acquiring material possessions, or phenomena, and lacks depth in noumenal aspects. He journeys to Africa seeking to develop connections to something greater than himself. By lifting a heavy woman, he earns a new title and experiences personal growth, suggesting a transition from a life dominated by phenomena to one more engaged with noumena and his inner self. The concepts of phenomena and noumena remain relevant for properly understanding happiness

1. What defines you? Or your actions and emotions? Your Material Possessions?

3. He was an 18th century German Philosopher and was the last influential philosopher in modern Europe during the Enlightenment.

4. Kant was famous for his study of the metaphysical body pertaining to hope, and the will of man.

6. “All right, I let you out of it. It’s better than what I’ve got. But every man feels from his soul that he has got to carry his life to a certain depth. Well I have to go on because I haven’t reached that depth yet.” (p.105) Henderson is coming to the realization that his life is lacking some intangible aspect (noumenal). Henderson the Rain King: Quotations

7. “My soul is like a pawn shop. I mean it’s filled with unredeemed pleasures, old clarinets, and cameras and moth-eaten fur. But “I said, let’s not get into a debate over it. I am only trying to tell you how you make me feel out here in this tribe. You’re great Itelo. I love you. I love the old lady, too. In fact you’re all pretty damned swell, and I’ll go get rid of those frogs for you if I have to lay down my life to do it.”(p.81) This excerpt reflects Henderson understanding that his life up until now has consisted of his acquisition of empty tangible belongings. Now he is feeling the sense of belonging to a cause greater than his selfish tendencies. Henderson quotes… continued

8. “Your own soul is killing you. Its you who makes the world what it is. Reality is you.”(p.123) George Bernard Shaw said it best when he said "Life isn't about finding yourself. Life is about creating yourself.” These two quotes correlate because you control your own reality. Life is what you make it; or what you want to get out of it. Henderson quotes… continued

9. This different cover portrays the transition of Henderson’s life in Africa quite literally. From a phenomenally dominated life, to the development of a connection within himself and his soul. He makes the transition with his strength when he lifts Mummah and earns the title of The Rain King.

11. Both have virtually unlimited resources, as well as a strong void within themselves beckoning for the nuomenal.

13. The Role of Kant’s Phenomenon/Nuomenon Theory in Our Lives What is the main reason why you all are students here at Suffolk County Community College? Over the past few weeks I’ve conducted a poll of the students here at SCCC and out of 50 students, all 50 students replied “money” or a “high-paying job”. While I agree that money is a critical to live a comfortable life, I believe happiness supersedes it.

15. A life addicted to materialism fuels your desire for ultimately unnecessary things.

16. “I want, I want, I want” .(p.43)Is a common theme throughout Henderson and the Rain King.

17. This principle is explained in Aristotle’s Doctrine of the Mean” theory.

19. Happiness Happiness to the individual has been evasive since the beginning of mankind. Just as Henderson learned, life is not about the phenomenal but rather the noumenal. Now we must apply this knowledge to the task at hand in our own education and our own lives.