Philosopher Parents, Not Kings

Philosopher Parents, Not Kings

The term ‘philosopher kings’ sticks in the head of students of ancient philosophy. In Plato’s Republic Socrates memorably asserts that “until philosophers take control of a city, there’ll be no respite from evil for either city or citizens…” Plato’s assertion here has...
Rediscovering Wonder

Rediscovering Wonder

“For it is owing to their wonder that men both now begin and at first began to philosophize.” Aristotle, Metaphysics     When it comes to certain wonder-full things in the world around us, life experience can have a stultifying effect in our souls. We become...
Living an Examined Life

Living an Examined Life

“…the unexamined life is not worth living.” Socrates in The Apology by Plato These words of Socrates are notoriously provocative. Perhaps they should provoke us. One implication of course is that an examined life is indeed worth living. But just what...
Bird-Watching and Philosophy

Bird-Watching and Philosophy

“Animals differ from one another in their modes of subsistence, in their actions, in their habits, and in their parts.” Aristotle, The History of Animals Sometimes I am asked what I recommend to prepare young people for doing philosophy. There are of course different...

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