“Emptiness” in Buddhism and Judaism
In this thought-provoking exploration of the concept of emptiness, we delve into the profound parallels and interconnectedness between Buddhist and Jewish philosophical traditions. By examining key terms such as pratītyasamutpāda, bōqēq, and "Ehyeh Asher Ehyeh," we uncover a rich tapestry of insights that bridge cultures and invite deeper contemplation of emptiness as an existential state underpinning being. This essay invites us to engage in a fruitful cross-cultural dialogue that transcends linguistic and geographical boundaries, revealing the universal nature of philosophical inquiry into the nature of reality.
Who Was Ralph Waldo Emerson?
In this thought-provoking exploration of Ralph Waldo Emerson and Henry David Thoreau's philosophies, we delve into the nuances of their Transcendentalist beliefs and how they diverged in their application of these principles. By examining their contrasting approaches to individualism, nature, and societal engagement, we uncover the depth and complexity of the Transcendentalist movement and its enduring impact on American thought. This essay invites us to reflect on the tension between contemplation and action, and the ways in which these two luminaries embodied the spirit of Transcendentalism in their own unique ways.
Gog and Magog in the Book of Ezekiel
In this thought-provoking exploration of the biblical figures Gog and Magog, we delve into the profound spiritual and philosophical implications of confronting seemingly insurmountable opposition and existential threat. By examining the imagery and narratives associated with these mysterious entities in Ezekiel and Revelation, we uncover a powerful metaphor for the soul's journey through crisis, dissolution, and ultimate rebirth. This essay invites us to reflect on the transformative potential of divine grace and trust amidst the chaos and challenges of the human condition.
The Political Dilemma of Balancing International Hospitality with Domestic Concerns
In this thought-provoking analysis, we explore the complex interplay between global compassion and local responses when it comes to housing foreign nationals, particularly refugees and asylum seekers. By examining the ethical imperatives of hospitality, the pragmatic concerns of governance, and the international dimensions of this issue, we uncover the profound challenges faced by nations in balancing their commitments to citizens and the global community. This essay invites us to reflect on the measure of a state's governance in navigating these complexities and striving for a more equitable distribution of responsibilities in an interconnected world.
Divinity as Genderless in World Religions
In this thought-provoking exploration of the divine's nature, we delve into the profound insights of various spiritual traditions, from Deuteronomy to Zen Buddhism, to uncover the fundamental ineffability of ultimate reality. By examining key passages and concepts, we discover that the transcendent ground of being surpasses all human categories, including gender. This essay invites us to look beyond familiar forms, unite in love, and celebrate the irreducible diversity that springs from the same ineffable source.
Non-Dual Awareness in The Book of Job
In this thought-provoking analysis of the Book of Job, we explore the timeless questions of human suffering, divine justice, and the path to spiritual awakening. Through a close reading of the text, we uncover how Job's trials and tribulations serve as a powerful allegory for the journey from dualistic thinking to non-dual awareness. By embracing the paradoxes and mysteries of existence, we discover that the key to liberation lies in surrendering to the divine will and recognizing the fundamental unity of all things.
Why Everyone Should Read Plato’s Apology
Socrates embodies the “ideal” philosopher —one who truly loved wisdom with eternal reverence!
Daoist Lessons for Life from Zhuangzi’s Butterfly Dream
The Daoist philosopher Zhuangzi dreams of himself as a butterfly —when he wakes up, he asks, “am I not just a butterfly sleeping?”
A Critical Look at Modern Educational Philosophy
Education and existentialism could indeed go hand-in-hand, but the modern education system seldom tolerates philosophical thinkers.
Nietzsche’s existential struggle with “science” and “truth.”
Nietzsche was not anti-science —he just wanted science to own up to the fact that it is but one of many perspectives.
Can There be Consciousness Without Thought?
According to philosopher David Rosenthal’s higher-order thought theory of consciousness, consciousness cannot exist without thought, because consciousness and it’s very existence depend on a special sort of thinking: higher-order thought
Nietzsche’s Birth of Tragedy
The Birth of Tragedy was Friedrich Nietzsche’s first book, and it anticipates various themes and ideas that appear in his later philosophy.
Jung, Sophocles, and Socrates: Antigone Archetypes
Creon embodies the tyrannical father Jungian archetype in Sophocles’ Antigone.
Rousseau’s Discourses: A Short Critique
Should humanity return to nature? Does society and private property make humanity worse, as Rousseau thought?
Why Morality is Objective
Morality is only interpretation, says Nietzsche. There are no objective moral truths, only interpretations. This essay argues that morality is, in fact, objective.
Sartre: Bad Faith and its Incompatibility with Human Freedom
Sartre’s seminal text Being & Nothingness presents human beings as perpetually in a state of self-delusion and consciousness of said bad faith. How is human freedom possible when we are arguably always in bad faith?
The Ethics of Video Games
Video games were once thought of by the masses to be a cause for violence, but this moral panic is proven wrong by empirical studies.
The Ethics of Flakiness
Flakiness is akin to stringing someone along in a relationship. Being flaky is unethical, leading to the depression of the person strung along.