No Small Endeavor with Lee C. Camp 172: Edith Hall: How Ancient Wisdom can Change Your Life (Best of NSE)
Sep 5, 2024
Edith Hall, a world-renowned classicist from King's College London, dives into ancient Greek perspectives on happiness, suggesting that our modern pursuits are flawed. She emphasizes Aristotle's idea of happiness as a way of life rooted in virtue rather than fleeting pleasures. The discussion explores the importance of self-control, curiosity, and emotional awareness in achieving true fulfillment. Hall also critiques contemporary attitudes towards pleasure and encourages integrating ancient wisdom into modern ethical frameworks.
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Philosophy Rooted in Wonder
- Aristotle grounds philosophy in wonder and curiosity about the world.
- He sees living well as practical engagement with life, not abstract thought.
Happiness as Active Virtue
- Aristotle's happiness (eudaimonia) means living virtuously and fulfilling human potential.
- Happiness is a continual active process, not a static psychological state.
Finding Your Unique Telos
- Everything has a telos, an inherent purpose or end to fulfill.
- True happiness arises from discovering and pursuing your unique potential.
