Philosophy Archives

Embrace the Absurd: Albert Camus’s Advice for a Fulfilled Life

Don't Wait to be Happy — Use Love to Get Happiness

What’s the meaning of life? Why does Albert Camus think that’s a ridiculous question to ask? The existentialist philosopher Albert Camus believes that, ultimately, life is absurd. We search in vain for meaning and purpose because it’s impossible to find them. He says we can choose to live in denial of this reality, end our own lives, or accept the absurd reality we inhabit. Keep reading to learn why Camus believes we should embrace the absurd.

The Myth of Sisyphus: Quotes by Albert Camus to Inspire Thought

What does Albert Camus regard as the limits of his knowledge? What does he believe is “the most urgent of questions”? In his 1942 essay The Myth of Sisyphus, philosopher Albert Camus describes his theory of the absurd. Both a feeling and a condition of existence, the absurd describes the irreparable tension between the human desire for meaning and purpose in life—and the inevitability of oblivion and death. Continue reading for The Myth of Sisyphus quotes that will have you thinking like a philosopher.

Is String Theory Correct? We Might Know—If We Could Test It

Is string theory correct? Is it even possible to find out whether it is or not? In The God Equation, theoretical physicist Michio Kaku suggests that string theory might be the path to uniting all the different laws of nature. But, many scientists reject string theory as a piece of mathematical sleight-of-hand. Read more to learn about the fascinating debate surrounding string theory.

Servant Leadership: Philosophy, Qualities & Importance

What is the servant leadership philosophy? How does this philosophy make the world a better place? Servant Leadership by Robert K. Greenleaf believes that servant leaders will pave the way toward a better future. He further defines the concept and lists some of the qualities you need to be a servant leader. Keep reading to learn why servant leadership would improve society.

Against Empathy by Paul Bloom: Book Overview & Takeaways

Are you for or against empathy? Why would anyone ever be against it? Is there such a thing as too much empathy? In Against Empathy, Paul Bloom argues that we rely too heavily on our emotions—especially empathy—to guide our judgments, decisions, and behavior. He suggests that our empathic responses to other people can lead us away from the morally good and right course of action. Continue reading for an overview of this contrarian book.

Paul Bloom: Empathy Is Experiencing the World as Others Do

How does empathy impact the way you view others in relation to yourself? What are the two different types of empathy? According to psychologist Paul Bloom, empathy is “the act of coming to experience the world as you think someone else does.” He makes an important distinction between two kinds of empathy: emotional empathy and cognitive empathy. Keep reading to learn about this perspective on empathy.

Rational Compassion: Paul Bloom’s Alternative to Empathy

What should be the basis for how you behave? Why isn’t empathy the best guide? If we want to be kind and moral people, it seems obvious that we should practice empathy. But, psychologist Paul Bloom suggests that we should cultivate a rational form of compassion instead and use this more measured and distanced approach to make decisions that are better for everyone involved. Continue reading to learn about Bloom’s concept of rational compassion.

How Does Life Work? Nick Lane Answers the Vital Question

What is life? How does life work? Can organization and complexity arise from chaos? Biochemist Nick Lane answers these questions as a starting point in his exploration of life’s origins. He says that, to explain the origin of life, we have to understand how cells process energy and the physical conditions that gave rise to the peculiar mechanisms that all life uses to power itself. Read more for Lane’s explanation of how life works.

3 Eras of Left Hemisphere Dominance: A Unique View of History

Why was some religious art destroyed during the Reformation? What’s the evidence that Descartes was left brain dominant? What can we learn from the instances of mental illness in the modern era? Psychiatrist Iain McGilchrist thinks the right brain hemisphere belongs in control. He points to several historical eras that he says illustrate power imbalances between the hemispheres. Continue reading to understand how, according to McGilchrist, left hemisphere dominance defined certain eras in history.

Philosopher Alan Watts: A Cult Figure or a Great Bodhisattva?

What’s the legacy of Alan Watts? How do people view his life and contribution? Critics, monks, and philosopher Alan Watts himself have used colorful words to describe him and his work. His books have taught many people in the West about Eastern philosophies and practices, but some contend that they lacked depth and that he didn’t always practice what he preached. Read more to learn how Alan Watts has been regarded over the last few decades.