Hermitix Aztec Philosophy with James Maffie
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Jan 10, 2024 Guest James Maffie discusses Aztec philosophy, including topics such as Aztec metaphysics, the purpose of existence and reciprocity, animism, respecting inanimate objects, and the fragile balance in Aztec philosophy.
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How Maffie Found Nahua Philosophy
- Maffie discovered Miguel León-Portilla's work in 1995 and taught himself Nahuatl in Mexico around 2000.
- That discovery redirected his career from analytic epistemology to Nahua studies for decades.
Aztec Thought Is Metaphysics First
- The book focuses on Aztec metaphysics rather than Western-style ethics or epistemology.
- Maffie frames the project as explaining a theory of reality: a world in motion.
Teotl: Power As Primary Reality
- Teotl is a universal, self-regenerating power that constitutes everything and is always transforming.
- Existence equals capacity to act: things are defined by what they do, not by static essences.