Showing results for "Culture" in Philosophy

A landmark work from the intellectually auspicious author of Orientalism, this book explores the long-overlooked connections between the Western imperial endeavor and the culture that both reflected and reinforced it. This classic study, the direct successor to Said's main work, is read by Peter Ganim ( Orientalism).

What I Believe by Leo Tolstoy. "The inner working of my soul, which I wish to speak of here, was not the result of a methodical investigation of doctrinal theology, or of the actual texts of the gospel; it was a sudden removal of all that hid the true meaning of the Christian doctrine – a momentary flash of light, which made everything clear to me. It was something like that which might happen to a man who, after vainly attempting, by a false plan, to build up a statue out of a confused heap of small pieces of marble, suddenly guesses at the figure they are intended to form by the shape of...

What I Believe by Bertrand Russell. Provides a brief indication of the beliefs of philosopher Bertrand Russell, focusing on his hopes for the future. The topics included are: nature and man, the good life, moral rules, individual and social salvation, and science and happiness.

The stuff of conspiracy theories makes for great, entertaining stories in movies, books, and television. And there is no shortage of subjects: from who really killed JFK to the truth behind 9/11. And then, there are subjects from alien invasions to the Moon landing was simulated - theories that are truly out of this world, which according to some, is flat. Many of these crazy concepts have jumped off the pages or screens to become so pervasive in our culture that thousands - even millions - subscribe to them as reality.

Confucius was a Chinese philosopher, teacher, and political figure. His teachings have profoundly influenced Asian thought and life. The impact of his life and intellectual ideas have changed human history and it can be argued that he is the most influential philosopher who ever lived.

Dvijaa Spiritual Center

Pope’s Essay on Man stands out as a brilliant exploration of humanity’s role within the grand Chain of Being. This philosophical poem is divided into four Epistles, each offering a unique lens through which to view mankind—first in relation to the cosmos, then as an individual, followed by his place within society, and finally contemplating the pursuit of happiness. With its stately rhyming couplets, Popes intricate language can sometimes veer into obscurity, but overall, the work triumphs as a masterful piece of philosophical poetry. It eloquently conveys universal truths through ...

In this intriguing tale, a young literary critic holds Hugh Vereker in high esteem, believing he fully grasps the depth of the writers work. However, a fateful meeting with Vereker reveals a shocking truth he, along with his fellow critics, has overlooked the true essence of Verekers genius. Determined to uncover the elusive mystery, both the critic and his editor embark on a quest for understanding. With an autobiographical twist, Jamess narrative subtly critiques those who fail to recognize the intricate patterns woven throughout his own writing. (Summary by Nicholas Clifford)

The Garden God A Tale of Two Boys is a poignant and deeply reflective exploration of adolescence, pantheism, Platonism, and the complexities of homoerotic desire, penned by Forrest Reid. This classic work of “Uranian” literature follows the journey of Graham Iddesleigh, a fifteen-year-old boy who has spent his early years in a sheltered environment. Wandering through his familys enchanting country estate, he dreams of a friendship with an ancient Greek god. However, his world is turned upside down when he is sent to boarding school. There, Graham encounters the ethereal Harold Brocklehurst...

Dive into the musings and insights of a modest scholar as he navigates the complexities of thought and observation. - Summary by Mark Leder

Dive into the mesmerizing world of Joris-Karl Huysmans’ 1884 masterpiece, known as the Bible of Decadence and famously adored by Oscar Wilde. In Against Nature (or Against The Grain in this translation), we follow the reclusive Duc Jean Floressas Des Esseintes, a life-long aesthete who retreats from society into his own carefully crafted artificial paradises. However, this journey is not a solemn reflection; Des Esseintes grand ambitions lead to ludicrous failures, resulting in both personal dissatisfaction and health troubles, while an unsuspecting tortoise becomes an unwitting victim of ...

Aspects Of Love is a captivating anthology that delves into the multifaceted nature of erotic love. This collection begins with Platos renowned work, The Symposium, where men gather over a meal, each sharing their unique perspectives on love. Following this inspired format, each selected piece in this anthology presents a distinct exploration of loves many forms—be it the thrill of infidelity, the warmth of marriage, or the beauty of same-sex relationships. From the eloquent verses of Donne, Whitman, Shakespeare, and Sappho, this anthology invites readers to journey through the diverse ...

This podcast features a captivating 1903 translation of Étienne Pivert de Senancours seminal work, Obermann. Initially overlooked by the reading public when it was first released during the tumultuous Napoleonic Wars in 1804, the novel experienced a revival nearly three decades later, earning accolades from literary giants such as Balzac, George Sand, and even Franz Liszt. Obermann is an epistolary novel presented in the form of a personal diary, where the protagonists inner turmoil takes center stage over physical action. Spanning a decade, the narrative captures Obermanns reflections on ...

Dive into The Beast in the Jungle, a captivating novella by Henry James, first published in 1903 as part of the collection, The Better Sort. Renowned as one of James most profound short narratives, this story explores universal themes of loneliness, fate, love, and death. The poignant tale of John Marcher and his unusual destiny resonates with readers, prompting deep reflections on the value and meaning of human existence. (Summary by Wikipedia)

At just twenty-six, during the tumultuous era of the Great War in Europe, the visionary Kurata Hyakuzō crafted a thought-provoking play titled The Priest & His Disciples (Shukke to sono deshi). This powerful stage drama draws inspiration from the life and teachings of Shinran, a 13th-century Buddhist priest and the founder of the True Pure Land School of Buddhism (Jōdo Shinshū). Within its narrative, Shinran engages with the struggling family of Hino Saemon and his wife Okane, offering profound insights on navigating lifes challenges amidst chaos and adversity. While the dialogue reflects ...

Dive into the whimsical world of Crock of Gold, a delightful comic novel by Irish author James Stephens. Renowned for his quick wit and engaging storytelling, Stephens explores themes of pantheism through the lens of adult Irish fairy tales. Following his acclaimed debut, The Charwomans Daughter, which humorously delves into the lives of a struggling Dublin mother and daughter, this second novel takes readers on an enchanting journey filled with irony and clever phrasing. Meet an overly meticulous Philosopher, his vengeful wife, and their innocent children, who find themselves ensnared in the ...

Dive into the haunting beauty of The Encantadas or Enchanted Isles, a thought-provoking novella by the renowned American author Herman Melville. First published in Putnams Magazine in 1854, this collection of ten philosophical sketches explores the enigmatic Galápagos Islands. Included in The Piazza Tales in 1856, The Encantadas stands out as the most critically acclaimed piece of the collection. With rich symbolism woven throughout, Melville masterfully reflects on the harsh realities of life in this remote paradise.

In this tantalizing tale, a man finds himself captivated by the vision of Venus, the goddess of love, draped in luxurious furs. He confides in his friend Severin about his dreams, prompting Severin to introduce him to a provocative manuscript titled Memoirs of a Supersensual Man. This manuscript chronicles the tumultuous obsession of Severin von Kusiemski, who becomes so enamored with the alluring Wanda von Dunajew that he begs to be treated as her slave, inviting her to push the boundaries of their relationship into increasingly degrading territory. Initially bewildered by his request, Wanda ...

Published in 1762, Émile, or On Education is a groundbreaking work by Jean-Jacques Rousseau that reshaped the landscape of education and politics. Through the fictional character of Emile, Rousseau explores the intricacies of human development, emphasizing the balance between nurturing the mind and managing passions. His radical views on established institutions sparked significant controversy, notably attracting the ire of Archbishop Christophe de Beaumont, who condemned the book in an encyclical. Rousseau argues that man undergoes two births the first to exist and the second to truly live, ...

Pedro Calderóns Life is a Dream stands out among his works for its profound and universal themes. This timeless tale conveys a powerful lesson echoed by philosophers and spiritual thinkers throughout history the world we perceive is but a fleeting illusion, while true reality lies beyond the visible and tangible. Rooted in an ancient Oriental legend, and reminiscent of the story of Barlaam and Josaphat, this narrative weaves in elements from the Arabian Nights and the comedic framework of Shakespeares Taming of the Shrew. However, Calderón transcends mere comedy, infusing the plot with ...