Book Shambles

Sarah Bakewell

Oct 13, 2016
Join Sarah Bakewell, author of 'At the Existentialist Café' and a Montaigne biographer, as she explores the relevance of existentialism today. The conversation dives into the philosophical depths of writers like Sartre and Camus, highlighting their views on hope and meaning. Bakewell reminisces about childhood literary favorites and how rereading changes with time. She also shares insights on Colin Wilson's influence and recommends compelling works like 'Secondhand Time' by Svetlana Alexievich. It's a rich tapestry of ideas that encourages a fresh look at beloved classics.
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INSIGHT

Structure Versus The Individual

  • Structuralism reverses existentialism by starting from social structures rather than the individual.
  • Existentialism insists the specific person must decide what kind of life to lead despite external forces.
INSIGHT

Free Will Needs Both Science And Agency

  • Neuroscience and philosophy wrestle over free will with multiple scientific interpretations.
  • Bakewell says existentialists balance conditioning with personal responsibility and the sense of freedom needed to function.
ADVICE

Embrace Philosophy's Unfinishedness

  • Expect philosophy to complicate problems rather than give final answers.
  • Treat philosophical debate as ongoing exploration, not quick closure.
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