The Transformation of Listlessness in Philosophy

Svensson argues that as you move forward in the history of philosophy, you see a fundamental transformation in the way in which philosophers talk about this listlessness. The medieval concept of acidia evolves into the Renaissance concept of melancholy. And what defines melancholy in relation to a city is that it is less moral and much more bodily. So for example, you suddenly start having medical rather than purely theological explanations of melancholy.

Transcript

Play full episode

The AI-powered Podcast Player

Save insights by tapping your headphones, chat with episodes, discover the best highlights - and more!

Get the app