Life-changing books only

Summary

In this insightful video, the speaker shares a personal collection of life-changing books that have deeply impacted their perspective on philosophy and life. They introduce works by Pierre Hadot, emphasizing the practical application of philosophy in daily life, and delve into the wisdom of ancient philosophers like Epictetus and Marcus Aurelius. The speaker also recommends modern thinkers like Victor Frankl and transcendentalist Ralph Waldo Emerson, highlighting the timeless relevance of their ideas. Finally, they explore the profound impact of René Girard's theories on understanding human nature and the ego, offering a transformative reading experience.

Takeaways

• 📚 The speaker emphasizes the transformative power of reading, highlighting that while there are countless books, only a select few are truly life-changing.
• 🌟 Pierre Hadot is introduced as a philosopher who focused on the practical application of philosophy in daily life rather than its theoretical aspects.
• 🛣️ Hadot's work encourages an 'eclectic' approach to philosophy, borrowing the best parts from various schools of thought and applying them to one's life.
• 📖 The importance of engaging with ancient philosophy is stressed, with the speaker recommending 'Philosophy as a Way of Life' by Hadot to understand the practical application of philosophical principles.
• 📝 Epictetus is praised for his teachings on living a philosophical life, with his discourses being suggested for daily reading to continuously improve oneself.
• 🤴 Marcus Aurelius and his 'Meditations' are highlighted as a significant source of wisdom, showing that personal development and introspection can come from historical figures.
• 💭 Seneca's 'Letters on Ethics' are recommended for their clarity and relevance to understanding human nature, which the speaker argues has not changed despite technological advancements.
• 🔍 Victor Frankl's work is discussed, focusing on the idea that individuals must find meaning in life rather than expecting life to provide it, influenced by his experiences during the Holocaust.
• 🌿 Ralph Waldo Emerson is presented as an important figure in American literature and philosophy, with his collected works being a source of profound and meaningful ideas.
• 🌌 'Things Hidden Since the Foundation of the World' by René Girard is recommended as a heavy, revelatory book that explores the concept of the ego and its role in conflict and violence.
• 🧘‍♂️ Reading is described as an exploration and a means to understand the universe and oneself, with the potential to form a kinship with authors from different eras.

Q & A

Who is Pierre Hadot and what is his significance in the context of the video?

Pierre Hadot was a French philosopher, lecturer, and professor known for his work in resurrecting the practical application of philosophy in daily life rather than just as a theoretical study. He is significant in the video because he represents the idea that philosophy should be a lived practice, not just an academic pursuit.

What does the presenter suggest about the value of reading and how it relates to life?

The presenter suggests that reading is an exploration and that while there is much to read, only a small fraction of it holds true value. Reading, especially of life-changing books, can be transformative and is likened to an exploration that helps in understanding the world, the universe, and ourselves.

What is the main theme of 'Philosophy as a Way of Life' by Pierre Hadot?

The main theme of 'Philosophy as a Way of Life' is the idea that philosophy was historically a practice to be applied in daily life for personal transformation, rather than just an academic discipline or theoretical study.

Why does the presenter recommend reading the works of Epictetus?

The presenter recommends reading Epictetus because he was one of the greatest teachers of practical philosophy as a way of life. His teachings, preserved by his student Arrian, offer practical advice on living a philosophical life, which the presenter believes is beneficial for personal growth and understanding.

What is unique about Marcus Aurelius' 'Meditations' as described in the video?

Marcus Aurelius' 'Meditations' is unique because it consists of personal reflections and thoughts that the Roman Emperor wrote for himself, not intending them for publication. This makes the work feel intimate and directly applicable to the reader's life, as if receiving advice from a wise friend.

How does the presenter view the practice of being eclectic in philosophy?

The presenter views being eclectic in philosophy as essential, suggesting that one should take the best parts from various philosophies, schools of thought, and individuals to create a personalized approach to living a philosophical life that suits one's own needs and circumstances.

What is the core message of Victor Frankl's works as mentioned in the video?

The core message of Victor Frankl's works is that life has no inherent meaning that it gives to us; instead, it is our responsibility to find and give meaning to our lives. This perspective is particularly powerful coming from someone who survived the Holocaust and found meaning in the most dire of circumstances.

Why does the presenter recommend reading the works of Ralph Waldo Emerson?

The presenter recommends reading Ralph Waldo Emerson because he was a central figure in the transcendentalist movement, an eclectic thinker who drew from ancient philosophies and applied them to a modern context. Emerson's works are described as thought-provoking and capable of transporting the reader into a meaningful realm of being.

What does the presenter suggest about engaging with philosophical texts?

The presenter suggests that one should engage directly with original philosophical texts rather than rely on modern interpretations or summaries. This direct engagement allows for a more authentic and transformative experience with the ideas presented.

What is the main argument of René Girard's 'Things Hidden Since the Foundation of the World' as presented in the video?

René Girard's main argument in 'Things Hidden Since the Foundation of the World' is that the ego and its competitive desires for control and self-sufficiency are at the root of all conflict and violence. He explores how the ego's mimicry and competition lead to destructive behaviors, and he draws connections between these ideas and religious concepts.

How does the presenter define a life-changing book?

A life-changing book, according to the presenter, is one that significantly impacts one's understanding of the world and oneself, potentially altering one's perspective and approach to life. These books often introduce transformative ideas or philosophies that resonate deeply with the reader.