Sunday Reading Circle: Philosophy as a Way of Life

It's easy to get the idea that philosophy is largely an abstract and conceptual endeavor–studying theories that try to explain the universe, morality, or language, and then arguing until we either prove those we disagree with wrong or at least reach a smug sense of clarity. But is that all that philosophy has to offer?

For this month's reading, we'll explore this question with Pierre Hadot, a French philosopher and historian of philosophy. Hadot was a professor at the Collège de France, where he held the Chair in the History of Hellenistic and Roman Thought.

He specialized in ancient Greek and Roman philosophy--especially Stoicism, Neoplatonism, and early Christian thought–as was known for his scholarship on Marcus Aurelius, Plotinus, and ancient spiritual exercises. His work has influenced many contemporary philosophers, classicists, and the modern revival of philosophy as a lived practice.

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Below is a PDF copy of Hadot's essay Philosophy as a Way of Life. If you have trouble accessing it, send the host a message–extra copies are available.

Link:
https://livingagoodlife.com/fall2021/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/Hadot.pdf

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We’ll have tea and light snacks, but please feel free to bring any drink or snack you’d like to share!

This event will be hosted in an apartment with a well-trained dog who will be happy to meet you. If anyone has concerns about dogs, let me know so I can be mindful about keeping her from bothering you.

The buzzer is Everett and Mainous—we’re on the 5th floor, apartment 16.

Meeting structure: We will start with a brief summary of the key ideas Hadot presents then move to open discussion. Please read the text in advance, make highlights, and note any thoughts or questions you find interesting and compelling.