In 'Shop Class as Soulcraft,' Matthew B. Crawford argues that the manual trades offer a unique form of intellectual and personal satisfaction. He critiques modern society's emphasis on 'knowledge work' and the devaluation of manual labor, highlighting the cognitive demands and personal fulfillment that come from working with one's hands. Crawford draws on his own experiences as a motorcycle mechanic and philosopher to illustrate the importance of craftsmanship, self-reliance, and the integration of thinking and doing in meaningful work. The book challenges consumerist culture and advocates for a more humane economy that values and rewards meaningful labor[1][3][4].
In 'Homo Ludens,' Johan Huizinga argues that play is a fundamental element of human culture, essential for the generation of culture. He traces the contribution of play from ancient times through the Renaissance and into modern society, highlighting its role in law, science, philosophy, and the arts. Huizinga defines play against a rich theoretical background, using cross-cultural examples to illustrate its universal significance and its civilizing functions[2][3][5].
In "Dependent Rational Animals," Alistair MacIntyre challenges the individualistic assumptions of modern philosophy. He argues that human beings are inherently social and dependent creatures, requiring relationships and communities for their flourishing. MacIntyre critiques the social contract tradition, which posits a state of nature where individuals are independent and self-sufficient. He emphasizes the importance of virtue ethics and the role of tradition in shaping moral character. The book explores the nature of human relationships and the importance of social institutions in fostering human well-being. MacIntyre's work offers a powerful counterpoint to individualistic ideologies.
On today’s episode of the podcast Ryan talks to author Matthew B. Crawford about his New York Times bestselling book Shop Class as Soulcraft (which you can pick up at the Painted Porch), why philosophy must be practiced and experienced in actual life rather than in the classroom, our inherent fear of death and how it impacts our day to day existence, and more.
Matthew B. Crawford is an American writer and research fellow at the Institute for Advanced Studies in Culture at the University of Virginia. He is a contributing editor at The New Atlantis, and is also a motorcycle mechanic. He is the author of the instant bestseller Shop Class as Soulcraft: An Inquiry into the Value of Work as well as The World Beyond Your Head and Why We Drive: Toward a Philosophy of the Open Road.
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