Five Questions Jonathan Lear
4 snips
Oct 13, 2020 In this conversation, Jonathan Lear, the John U. Nef Distinguished Service Professor at the University of Chicago and a renowned author, shares his philosophical journey. He discusses how philosophy shapes personal temperament and highlights Aristotle’s naturalism as a lens for understanding life's complexities. Lear reflects on his intertwined experiences in philosophy and psychoanalysis, including pivotal moments with the Crow Indians. He also touches on cultural representation through the 'Upsalika Women and Warriors' exhibition, showcasing the celebration of indigenous history and heritage.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Aristotle's Influence
- Jonathan Lear's interest in Aristotle's biological works inspired him to engage with the world differently.
- He trained as a psychoanalyst, doing pro bono work for 30 years, shaping his temperament.
Socratic Influence
- Lear found Socrates's dialogues inspiring, especially the unpredictable nature of conversations.
- This shaped his view that any conversation can be significant.
Psychoanalysis as a Craft
- Psychoanalysis, as a master craft, involves continuous improvement, similar to music.
- Lear learned from both being analyzed and analyzing others.