The Gray Area with Sean Illing
Life is hard. Can philosophy help?
Apr 8, 2024
In this conversation, Kieran Setiya, an MIT professor and author, shares insights from his book 'Life is Hard.' He discusses how philosophy can provide practical tools for navigating life’s toughest moments, including midlife crises and feelings of regret. Setiya contrasts philosophical inquiry with modern self-help trends, urging a deeper understanding of happiness and fulfillment. He addresses the importance of embracing life's complexities and fostering genuine connections, all while encouraging listeners to accept both the joyful and painful aspects of existence.
51:00
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Quick takeaways
- Philosophy offers practical guidance in navigating life's challenges by providing concepts to understand reality authentically.
- Midlife crises prompt reflection and reassessment, emphasizing the importance of evaluating life satisfaction and finding meaning.
Deep dives
The Purpose of Philosophy and Living Well
Philosophy aims to address the fundamental questions of how we should live our lives, exploring ethics and human nature. It involves engaging with the world and responding to it appropriately. Philosophy provides concepts that help us understand reality and guide our responses, highlighting the importance of describing and engaging with reality authentically.
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