Zena Hitz on The Meaning of Life, and Religion (Episode 90)
Oct 27, 2023
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Zena Hitz discusses her book 'A philosopher looks at the religious life' in this conversation. They delve into meaning, Christianity, Stoicism, wholeheartedness, abandonment, devotion, service, happiness, freedom, and Nietzsche.
Embracing pain and suffering as integral parts of life leads to true freedom and a richer, more meaningful existence.
Choosing self-sacrifice and wholehearted commitment to a purpose greater than oneself can lead to true happiness and fulfillment.
Deep dives
The concept of freedom and the practice of abandonment
The podcast explores the idea of freedom as the ability to do things that one might otherwise fear due to the potential for pain and suffering. It delves into the concept of abandonment, which involves accepting everything that happens as coming from a loving will. This act of abandonment is challenging due to the immense suffering in the world, but it offers a sense of freedom to live without fear and restriction. Examples such as Christ's crucifixion and Socrates' acceptance of death illustrate the notion of choosing suffering and relinquishing worldly goods for a higher purpose.
The tension between pursuing personal good and the greater whole
The conversation addresses the tension between individual pursuit of personal good and alignment with the greater whole. It contemplates the challenge of discernment when making choices that may involve sacrificing personal desires or roles in favor of a higher calling. It explores the possibility that freedom and true happiness can be found through self-sacrifice and wholehearted commitment to a purpose greater than oneself, as exemplified by individuals who leave their marriages, join religious communities, or embrace lives of service.
The value of pain, suffering, and limitations
The podcast highlights the value of pain, suffering, and limitations in shaping one's understanding of freedom and embracing abandonment. It questions societal norms that prioritize avoiding pain and suffering, suggesting that a life lived in complete avoidance may be limited and unfulfilling. Examples from the classroom discussion and personal experiences emphasize the idea that true freedom can be found in accepting and embracing pain and suffering as integral parts of the human experience, leading to a richer and more meaningful life.
The pursuit of happiness and the role of fate
The conversation touches on Nietzsche's perspective on the pursuit of happiness and the role of fate in one's life. Nietzsche's idea of embracing eternal recurrence and accepting all aspects of life, including pain and suffering, is discussed in relation to the concept of abandonment. However, there is also recognition that Nietzsche's rejection of the Christian belief in a providential and loving God leads to a different understanding of achievement and the pursuit of happiness. The tension between competing notions of success and the acceptance of weakness is explored within these philosophical frameworks.
In this conversation, Caleb speaks with Zena Hitz about her recent book “A philosopher looks at the religious life.” They discuss meaning, Christianity, and Stoicism.