Final answer:
According to terror-management theory, anxiety about our mortality motivates our pursuit of self-esteem, as a way to cope with the existential fear related to our inevitable death, and maintain a sense of meaning within our cultural belief systems.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to terror-management theory, anxiety about our own mortality motivates our pursuit of self-esteem. This psychological concept suggests that when people are reminded of their mortality, they are more likely to cling to their cultural worldview and support leaders who share their beliefs, also demonstrating higher levels of aggression against those who have differing views. This is inspired by the fundamental desire to achieve a sense of personal significance and lasting impact, as a way to cope with the existential fear that comes from awareness of our inevitable death.
The theory posits that our actions and beliefs are often defensive mechanisms to handle the deep-seated fear of our own mortality. Thus, we seek ways to bolster our self-esteem and align ourselves closely with our cultural norms and values, as these constructs provide a sense of meaning and durability which transcends the physical limits of life.
This pursuit of self-esteem manifests in various ways, such as striving for success, adhering closely to societal norms, or seeking validation and recognition from others. The theory highlights our need for a psychological buffer against the inherent anxiety that comes with the knowledge of our mortality.