Hermitix A Search for the Soul of the West with Sean McGrath
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Jan 14, 2026 Sean McGrath, a philosopher and former Carmelite hermit, dives deep into the search for meaning in a consumer-driven world. He shares how personal tragedy led to profound existential questions and his exploration of Buddhism, which he found lacking. McGrath emphasizes the need for a return to Christian mysticism and the relational soul concept, arguing against consumerism's spiritual emptiness. He critiques utopian ideals and advocates for simplicity and cultural transformation as pathways to genuine hope and renewal.
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Monastic Second Birth
- Sean McGrath left academia to join a Carmelite offshoot and spent five years living as a hermit.
- He describes that monastic period as a second birth that began his true education.
Crisis That Started The Search
- A cousin's suicide at age 20 catalyzed McGrath's search for the meaning of life.
- That crisis led him to backpack in India, then into Christian monasticism after Buddhism felt inauthentic.
Consumerism As Christian Heresy
- Consumerism exploits desires for meaning, novelty, and self-remaking rather than mere material needs.
- McGrath argues consumerism is a Christian heresy that weaponizes distorted Christian values.
