In The Discourses, Epictetus discusses the two potential sides to resolution; a virtue or an illness. Are we willing to change our minds to be closer to the truth?
Category: Exploring Philosophy
Seneca on the Fallacy of Travel
In Letter XXVIII of ‘Letters from a Stoic’, Seneca discusses the fallacy surrounding travel; what it achieves, and what it simply can’t. “A change of character, not a change of air, is what you need.”
Rainer Maria Rilke and the Inexplicable
If we supposedly have all the answers, what kind of relationship can we have with the inexplicable or the mysterious? Rainer Maria Rilke discusses possibility in the unknown and danger in the absolute.
Rainer Maria Rilke on Letting in Sadness
In late 1902, a young officer cadet began corresponding with poet Rainer Maria Rilke. ‘Letters to a Young Poet’ is a collection of Rilke’s letters to the young aspiring writer. In Letter No. 8, Rilke addresses the transformative nature of sadness.
The Philosopher King
Marcus Aurelius was once the most powerful man on earth- a Roman Emperor. ‘Meditations’ reveals ‘The Philosopher’; a king concerned with being a good man. Including quotes from Meditations.
A Tale of Temperance
In recent history, the virtue of temperance has been associated with strict asceticism. A joyless lifestyle, filled with self-deprivation and suppression. But temperance was never meant to be an extreme. When we look further back in time, we find its essence and purpose. Quotes from Aristotle, Aquinas, Seneca & more.
C. S. Lewis and the Law of Nature
In his book ‘Mere Christianity’, C.S Lewis speaks about the ‘Law of Right and Wrong’ or the ‘Law of Nature’. “…human beings, all over the earth, have this curious idea that they ought to behave in a certain way, and cannot really get rid of it.”
Envy or Emulation
When we compare ourselves to others, we highlight our differences and in doing so, highlight our own inferiorities. We start believing that we are unhappy because of these things we lack in comparison, and envy creeps in.
Viktor Frankl on Meaning in Suffering, Choice & Bravery
In this act they redeemed their tragedy. They represented the very best of human nature, shouldering their suffering and showing courage in the face of fear.
The State of Nature & The Social Contract
Imagine a world with no laws, governments, or set structures of morality dictating to us what is right and wrong. We are in essence, lone, independent beings, purely working from the thoughts and behaviours we naturally would have.