The Thomistic Institute
How To Not Ask About "The Meaning of Life" | Prof. Joshua Hochschild
Apr 22, 2024
Philosophy and ethics expert Prof. Joshua Hochschild discusses the origins of the 'meaning of life' question in the 19th century and its impact on philosophy and literature. The podcast explores how this concept evolved as a response to existential crises, contrasting 'meaning of life' with 'purpose of life.' It also delves into the development of Catholic social teaching in addressing industrial challenges and incorporating reflections on personal existence, including key encyclicals like Rerum Novarum and Centissimus Annus. The episode concludes with a discussion on John Paul II's reinterpretation of the meaning of life within Catholic teachings, linking it to traditional metaphysical inquiries about humanity.
47:21
Episode guests
AI Summary
AI Chapters
Episode notes
Podcast summary created with Snipd AI
Quick takeaways
- The question of the meaning of life evolved from a critique of existential views to a subjective, personal quest for fulfillment.
- Efforts to reconcile modern subjective meaning inquiries with traditional human purpose offer a fresh perspective on existential dilemmas.
Deep dives
Origin of the Meaning of Life Question
The meaning of life question emerged as a 19th-century invention, with limited historical precedence before 1850. Emerging from a context of German idealism critique, the question initially had a negative flavor, addressing a sense of alienation or meaninglessness. Notably, the question appeared to arise to counter or escape negative existential views such as materialism or religious skepticism.
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.
