The Art of Manliness #570: St. Augustine's Real-World Spirituality for Restless Hearts
Dec 18, 2019
Join James K. A. Smith, a professor and author, as he dives into the relevance of St. Augustine's wisdom for our modern lives. They explore deep feelings of restlessness and existential angst that haunt us today, echoing Augustine's own struggles. Smith contrasts Augustine's insights on true freedom through dependence on God with existentialist philosophies. The conversation touches on themes of ambition, identity, and the vital role of grace, shedding light on how these age-old ideas can help us find meaning and fulfillment in an often chaotic world.
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Augustine's Background
- Augustine, born in North Africa in the 4th century, had a pagan Roman father and a Christian African mother.
- His most famous work, Confessions, is considered one of the West's first memoirs.
Augustine's Influence on Existentialism
- Existentialist philosophers like Heidegger, Sartre, and Camus were influenced by Augustine's work.
- Augustine explored themes of self-discovery and meaning, making him a sort of proto-existentialist.
Two Types of Restlessness
- The restlessness of life's journey comes from not knowing where home is or finding destinations underwhelming.
- Another restlessness stems from knowing home exists (like a hoped-for future) but not having arrived yet.
