The Value of the World and of Oneself PDF Download

Author: Mor Segev
Publisher: Oxford University Press
ISBN: 0197634079
Category : Philosophy
Languages : en
Pages : 273

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Book Description
"This book examines the longstanding debate between philosophical optimism and pessimism in the history of philosophy, focusing on Aristotle, Maimonides, Spinoza, Schopenhauer, Nietzsche and Camus. Philosophical optimists maintain that the world is optimally arranged and is accordingly valuable, and that the existence of human beings is preferable over their nonexistence. Philosophical pessimists, by contrast, hold that the world is in a woeful condition and ultimately valueless, and that human nonexistence would have been preferable over our existence. Schopenhauer criticizes the optimism he locates in the Hebrew Bible and in Spinoza for being unable to square the presumed perfection of the world and its parts, including human life, with the suffering and misfortunes observable in them, and for leading to egoism and thereby to cruelty. Nietzsche, in turn, criticizes Schopenhauer's overtly pessimistic view, inter alia, for furtively positing a perfect state for one to aspire to, thus being latently optimistic. Similarly, Camus charges Nietzsche, who announces his rejection of both optimism and pessimism, with deifying the world and oneself, thereby reverting to optimism. Interestingly, Aristotle countenances an optimistic theory, later adopted and developed by Maimonides, that is arguably capable of facing Schopenhauer's challenge. Aristotelian optimism accounts for the perfection of the world in terms of a hierarchy of value between its parts, with human beings ranked relatively low, and recommends an attitude congruent with that ranking"--

Author: Iddo Landau
Publisher: Oxford University Press
ISBN: 0190657685
Category : Philosophy
Languages : en
Pages : 313

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Book Description
Does life have meaning? Is it possible for life to be meaningful when the world is filled with suffering and when so much depends merely upon chance? Even if there is meaning, is there enough to justify living? These questions are difficult to resolve. There are times in which we face the mundane, the illogically cruel, and the tragic, which leave us to question the value of our lives. However, Iddo Landau argues, our lives often are, or could be made, meaningful—we've just been setting the bar too high for evaluating what meaning there is. When it comes to meaning in life, Landau explains, we have let perfect become the enemy of the good. We have failed to find life perfectly meaningful, and therefore have failed to see any meaning in our lives. We must attune ourselves to enhancing and appreciating the meaning in our lives, and Landau shows us how to do that. In this warmly written book, rich with examples from the author's life, film, literature, and history, Landau offers new theories and practical advice that awaken us to the meaning already present in our lives and demonstrates how we can enhance it. He confronts prevailing nihilist ideas that undermine our existence, and the questions that dog us no matter what we believe. While exposing the weaknesses of ideas that lead many to despair, he builds a strong case for maintaining more hope. Along the way, he faces provocative questions: Would we choose to live forever if we could? Does death render life meaningless? If we examine it in the context of the immensity of the whole universe, can we consider life meaningful? If we feel empty once we achieve our goals, and the pursuit of these goals is what gives us a sense of meaning, then what can we do? Finding Meaning in an Imperfect World is likely to alter the way you understand your life.

Author: Albert Camus
Publisher: Vintage
ISBN: 0307827828
Category : Literary Collections
Languages : en
Pages : 226

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Book Description
One of the most influential works of this century, The Myth of Sisyphus and Other Essays is a crucial exposition of existentialist thought. Influenced by works such as Don Juan and the novels of Kafka, these essays begin with a meditation on suicide; the question of living or not living in a universe devoid of order or meaning. With lyric eloquence, Albert Camus brilliantly posits a way out of despair, reaffirming the value of personal existence, and the possibility of life lived with dignity and authenticity.

Author: Lao Tzu
Publisher: LLZ Publishing
ISBN:
Category : Antiques & Collectibles
Languages : en
Pages : 287

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Book Description
“This book makes an immediate connection with the way I have tried to live my life. The messages can be read again and again to recenter, rebalance, and deepen my understanding. It is definitely something to keep near and to be consulted often.” Helen S. Cooke – PMI Fellow To those who are seeking and believing in the whole person care, balanced life, the natural order, Wu Wei, nurturing, inner peace, happiness, humility, simplicity, adaptability, inspiration, meditation, letting go, detachment, kindness, reflection, enlightenment, self-discovery, being yourself, rejuvenation, spiritual connection, and healing. Immerse yourself in the wisdom of ancient China through the timeless 'Tao Te Ching.' Authored by the legendary philosopher Laozi, this profound exploration transcends the boundaries of time, offering invaluable insights into existence, inner peace, and wisdom. Comprising 81 chapters, the 'Tao Te Ching' covers a spectrum of topics, from the universe and virtue to politics and ethics. Laozi's philosophy, rooted in the concept of the Tao, advocates for a return to simplicity and alignment with the universal source, steering away from the complexities of power and desire. Its influence extends beyond Taoism, shaping major philosophical schools in China. This book provides a contemporary interpretation of Laozi's teachings alongside the original verses, facilitating practical application in daily life. By embracing key concepts, readers can foster well-being, meaningful relationships, and self-discovery. "Moments of Reflection for Inspiration, Enlightenment, and Healing" invites you to revel in the meditative repetition of Laozi's wisdom. Whether pursuing happiness, purpose, or a deeper understanding of existence, this book serves as a gateway to timeless insights that have shaped Chinese culture for centuries. Join the journey toward self-discovery and enlightenment through the profound wisdom of the Tao.

Author: Jeff Greenberg
Publisher: Guilford Press
ISBN: 9781593850401
Category : Psychology
Languages : en
Pages : 550

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Book Description
Social and personality psychologists traditionally have focused their attention on the most basic building blocks of human thought and behavior, while existential psychologists pursued broader, more abstract questions regarding the nature of existence and the meaning of life. This volume bridges this longstanding divide by demonstrating how rigorous experimental methods can be applied to understanding key existential concerns, including death, uncertainty, identity, meaning, morality, isolation, determinism, and freedom. Bringing together leading scholars and investigators, the Handbook presents the influential theories and research findings that collectively are helping to define the emerging field of experimental existential psychology.

Author: William L. McBride
Publisher: Routledge
ISBN: 1135631611
Category : Philosophy
Languages : en
Pages : 398

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Book Description
William L. McBride Professor of Philosophy at Purdue University, is co-founder of the North American Sartre Society, and the first chairperson of its executive board. His most recent publications include Social and Political Philosophy and Sartre's Political Theory. He was recently named Chevalier dans l'Ordre des Palmes Academiques by the French Government, and has served as Chairperson of the Committee on International Cooperation of the American Philosophical Association and as President of the Societe Americaine de Philosophie de Langue Francaise.

Author: Mel Thompson
Publisher: Teach Yourself
ISBN: 1444134213
Category : Philosophy
Languages : en
Pages : 224

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Book Description
Understand Existentialism breaks down a complex mode of thought into more manageable sections, enabling you to get to grips with the key concepts within the movement. Chart the origins and development of existentialism in a variety of disciplines and learn about significant thinkers from Sartre and De Beauvoir to Beckett and Camus. Whether you are a newcomer or more experienced student, this book will enhance your understanding of a brand of philosophy designed to give meaning and direction amongst the uncertainties of modern life. NOT GOT MUCH TIME? One, five and ten-minute introductions to key principles to get you started. AUTHOR INSIGHTS Lots of instant help with common problems and quick tips for success, based on the author's many years of experience. EXTEND YOUR KNOWLEDGE Extra online articles at www.teachyourself.com to give you a richer understanding. THINGS TO REMEMBER Quick refreshers to help you remember the key facts. TRY THIS Innovative exercises illustrate what you've learnt and how to use it.

Author: Vincent Hirschi
Publisher: Wipf and Stock Publishers
ISBN: 1532693982
Category : Religion
Languages : en
Pages : 149

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Book Description
James's epistle is usually remembered for being very practical and for inviting its readers to acts of mercy and compassion. And yet, the same letter also claims that it is not possible to love God and to love “the world.” In other words, James encourages his readers to develop two seemingly opposite attitudes at the same time: to reject the world and to be involved in it. Vincent Hirschi shows that James contains crucial insights on how the church can be at the same time a positive social force and a prophetic voice challenging the society she serves. Through careful exegesis and attention to details, he explores the relationships between the personal and communal dimensions of faith, on the interplay between development of character and social action, and proposes a detailed analysis of the role of the church in James's letter.

Author: Joel Vos
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing
ISBN: 1137576693
Category : Psychology
Languages : en
Pages : 317

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Book Description
This inspiring, insightful new text provides a practical guide to helping clients live a meaningful and satisfying life despite the challenges they may be facing. Divided into three parts, it starts by drawing on empirical research to demonstrate the effectiveness of meaning-oriented practice and reviews a large body of literature on meaning in a wide-range of psychological and philosophical approaches, translating this into specific recommendations for practitioners. It continues by exploring the basic skill set required for working effectively in this area – from how to assess clients' needs and address issues of meaning, to specific existential, phenomenological and mindfulness skills. Finally, it provides a step guide to applying the skills to clinical practice with the support of examples and case studies from a range of professions. In what is still an emerging area of practice, this text stands alone as a comprehensive source of reference for both students and practitioners across the full range of people professions.

Author: Claudia Mariéle Wulf
Publisher: LIT Verlag
ISBN: 3643853874
Category : Philosophy
Languages : en
Pages : 376

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Book Description
It is a challenge to talk about values and a provocation to call them "valid". But it is necessary when human dignity is at stake. Freedom, love, truth and life determine and protect this dignity. The highest value is life; when it is threatened, one loses the experience of dignity. Mere autonomy going beyond value-oriented freedom can threaten life, physically and psychologically. If we do not respect our livelihoods, we threaten them. Genuine love of one's neighbour prevents tolerance from turning into populist, intolerant ideologies. Dignity as the standard for our coexistence gives rise to hope. Therefore, this book invites us to think, feel and act responsibly for a life ‘in fullness’ (John 10:10).