Fr. Ryan Duns, a Jesuit priest and author, delves into the intersection of horror and theology, revealing how horror films reflect deep metaphysical beliefs and provoke questions about existence and faith. He discusses the portrayal of evil and the transformative potential of forgiveness in narratives like Stephen King's 'It.' The conversation also examines individual struggles in spiritual practices and how horror films showcase themes of morality and divine intervention. Duns critiques traditional views on the soul, promoting a holistic approach that enhances our understanding of both film and faith.

Dive into the complex themes of Hermann Burger's engaging work, focusing on suicide and its ties to pessimism. Personal stories illuminate the tragic duality of mental suffering, blending external achievements with deep internal struggles. Explore the concept of 'mortology' and its critiques of pessimism, revealing the tension between reality and artificial escapes. The dangers of pessimistic philosophy are dissected, shedding light on its allure and how it can cloud one’s appreciation for life's inherent beauty and joy.

In this discussion, John Michael Greer, an esteemed writer and occultist with a rich background in Freemasonry, sheds light on this often-misunderstood organization. He unpacks the myths surrounding Freemasonry, revealing its genuine contributions to society. Greer dives into the importance of Masonic symbols, emphasizing their deeper moral teachings and connections to ethics. He also explores the fascinating interplay between politics and the occult, illustrating Freemasonry's vital role in bridging divides and its historical significance in shaping modern ideologies.

Steven E. Knepper is Associate Professor in the Department of English, Rhetoric, and Humanistic Studies at the Virginia Military Institute. In this episode we discuss Byung-Chul Han's book 'The Spirit of Hope'.---Become part of the Hermitix communityHermitix Twitter - https://x.com/HermitixpodcastSupport Hermitix:Hermitix Subscription - https://hermitix.net/subscribe/Patreon - www.patreon.com/hermitix Donations: - https://www.paypal.me/hermitixpodHermitix Merchandise - http://teespring.com/stores/hermitix-2Bitcoin Donation Address: 3LAGEKBXEuE2pgc4oubExGTWtrKPuXDDLKEthereum Donation Address: 0x31e2a4a31B8563B8d238eC086daE9B75a00D9E74

Review of In Watermelon Sugar by Richard Brautigan.---Become part of the Hermitix community: Hermitix Twitter - ⁠⁠ / hermitixpodcast⁠⁠ Support Hermitix: Patreon - ⁠⁠ patreon.com/hermitix⁠⁠ Donations: - ⁠⁠https://www.paypal.me/hermitixpod⁠⁠ Hermitix Merchandise - ⁠⁠http://teespring.com/stores/hermitix-2⁠⁠ Bitcoin Donation Address: 3LAGEKBXEuE2pgc4oubExGTWtrKPuXDDLK Ethereum Donation Address: 0x31e2a4a31B8563B8d238eC086daE9B75a00D9E74

Carlos Alberto Sánchez is Professor of Philosophy at San José State University, USA.Book link: https://global.oup.com/academic/product/blooming-in-the-ruins-9780197691007---Become part of the Hermitix community:Hermitix Twitter - / hermitixpodcast Support Hermitix:Patreon - / hermitix Donations: - https://www.paypal.me/hermitixpodHermitix Merchandise - http://teespring.com/stores/hermitix-2Bitcoin Donation Address: 3LAGEKBXEuE2pgc4oubExGTWtrKPuXDDLKEthereum Donation Address: 0x31e2a4a31B8563B8d238eC086daE9B75a00D9E74

Dr Hannah Lucas is a literary scholar specialising in contemplative writing, the philosophy of religion, and wellbeing in medieval English literature.Book link: https://cup.columbia.edu/book/impossible-recovery/9780231218689---Become part of the Hermitix community: Hermitix Twitter - ⁠⁠ / hermitixpodcast⁠⁠ Support Hermitix:Patreon - ⁠⁠ patreon.com/hermitix⁠⁠ Donations: - ⁠⁠https://www.paypal.me/hermitixpod⁠⁠ Hermitix Merchandise - ⁠⁠http://teespring.com/stores/hermitix-2⁠⁠ Bitcoin Donation Address: 3LAGEKBXEuE2pgc4oubExGTWtrKPuXDDLK Ethereum Donation Address: 0x31e2a4a31B8563B8d238eC086daE9B75a00D9E74

Review of Self & Unself by Darren AllenBook link: https://expressiveegg.org/portfolio/self-unself/---Become part of the Hermitix community:Hermitix Twitter - ⁠⁠⁠⁠ twitter.com/hermitixpodcast⁠⁠⁠ ⁠Support Hermitix:Patreon - ⁠⁠⁠ ⁠www.patreon.com/hermitix⁠⁠Donations: - ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.paypal.me/hermitixpod⁠⁠⁠⁠Bitcoin Donation Address: 3LAGEKBXEuE2pgc4oubExGTWtrKPuXDDLKEthereum Donation Address: 0x31e2a4a31B8563B8d238eC086daE9B75a00D9E74

Dive into the vibrant world of Hermann Burger's 'Diabelli,' where music and humor meet in a circus of ideas. Explore the intriguing themes of identity and illusion, as artists grapple with their multiple personas. Delve into a childhood fascination with illusions that blends joy and confusion, vividly capturing surreal experiences. Unpack the philosophical depth of 'Diabelli,' contrasting beauty and destruction while revealing the grotesque nature of reality. Finally, confront dark psychological themes like repression and sexual anxiety that challenge our understanding of the human condition.

Audrey Borowski, a research fellow in digital technology and a contributor to notable publications, shares her insights on the life of Leibniz. She explores his early challenges in Paris and the societal pressures he faced. The discussion highlights Leibniz's vision for an ideal state, merging rational governance with humane values. Borowski also touches on his communication style, contrasting his complex writings with clearer correspondence methods. Lastly, she delves into the balance between idealism and reality in Leibniz's life, enriching our understanding of the philosopher.