The Gray Area with Sean Illing Halfway there: a philosopher’s guide to midlife crises
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Apr 21, 2025 
In this engaging conversation, Kieran Setiya, an MIT professor and author, delves into how philosophy can ease the struggles of midlife crises. He explores the intersection of self-help and ethical living, arguing that reflection can navigate life's complexities. The discussion touches on the malaise of midlife, the weight of regret, and the quest for meaning. Setiya also critiques the focus on happiness, advocating for embracing life's challenges and shared experiences over mere self-love. His insights offer a philosophical roadmap for a fulfilling life.
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Philosophy's Evolving Purpose
- Philosophy began as a broad inquiry into how to live and understand the world.
- It evolved by shedding disciplines but retained tough questions without agreed answers.
Philosophy Guides How To Live
- Philosophy's core is answering how life should be lived, integrating ethics and metaphysics.
- Early philosophers believed understanding reality was essential to living well.
Why Midlife Feels Difficult
- Midlife crisis involves regret, limited life options, and confronting mortality.
- Life's shrinking freedom generates anxiety unique to the midlife phase.
