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RE: Non-Boring Philosophy: The Introduction
I took my first philosophy course as a freshman in college. The professor went around the room and asked us our perceptions on life. I gave mine and he waved his hand in dismissal and said, 'Oh, Plato."
I was deeply offended because I had come to it all on my own! Hadn't read Plato yet, or any of the other great philosophers. I knew right then I wasn't going to learn much from him, and I didn't, but he gave us a good reading list!
So yes, if you can make philosophy attractive I'm in!
haha, oh god, I haven't read plato either.. Did I miss something? Am I allowed to be a philosopher without knowing the books of plato?
Oh my dear - you simply must read Plato! (jk) His basic premise is that what we see in the world is like shadows from a campfire reflected on a cave wall. Not real, just our perception of what is real. Now you know enough about Plato to get on with.
I've read a lot of philosophers, couldn't tell you now much of what they're about. But for pure pleasure I enjoy the Discourses of Epictetus. Here are a few of his quotes
Do any of these sound familiar?
Note that he is not Epicurus, as in Epicurean, whose philosophy was pleasure is good, pain is bad. Epictetus is a bit more complex but a fun read.
**Disclaimer: I am not a real philosopher nor do I play one on TV.
Hey Donna, haha, it sounds all familiar yes, but not from those names (although they have beautiful names).. but more from... kinda, just observing life.
Perhaps I will have to find my own word for it. Samosophy... then I could get around with it... ;P
Well, I started out telling you how annoyed I was with my professor for dismissing my very own life view as Bah! Sneer! Plato! So I think it is a very good idea to name your own with no reference at all to any other philosopher, living or dead! It's your very own life view and philosophy and I bet it's going to be very interesting!