Philosophy Archives

Freudian Marxism: The Fusion of Class & Psychological Domination

What do the ideas of Marx and Freud have in common? How did they help form the modern conception of the self? Carl Trueman argues that cultural developments of the past three centuries have transformed our conception of selfhood from a self rooted in religion, tradition, and community to one rooted in individualism, emotion, and sexuality. The ideas of Marx and Freud contributed to this transformation. Read more to learn about the roots and the emergence of Freudian Marxism from Trueman’s perspective.

Sigmund Freud’s Philosophy About Self: Sexuality as Identity

What did Freud believe about identity and the self? How influential are his ideas? In the 19th century, through the work of Sigmund Freud, sexuality came to form the center of human identity. In The Rise and Triumph of the Modern Self, Carl Trueman places this in a historical context, explaining how the concept of the self transformed over time. Keep reading for an overview of Sigmund Freud’s philosophy about self.

Karl Marx: Human Nature Is Determined by Socioeconomic Status

What determines whether a person is good or bad? Are we inherently one or the other? According to Karl Marx, human nature isn’t fixed or universal. That philosophy stands in contrast to the traditional Christian view of human nature. Carl Trueman argues that Marx’s concept of political selfhood reshaped our ideas about the self, morality, and human nature—ultimately transforming society. Keep reading for an introduction to Marx’s philosophy of human nature in this intriguing historical context.

Aristotle’s Rhetorical Appeals—Pathos, Logos, Ethos, & Kairos

What are Aristotle’s rhetorical appeals? How can you use these appeals to successfully persuade an audience? Aristotle’s rhetorical appeals are pathos, logos, ethos, and kairos. According to René Rodriguez in Amplify Your Influence, using all of these in a presentation is a surefire way to keep your audience engaged with your ideas. Let’s look at how you can use these techniques to be the most persuasive speaker around.

Rousseau: Human Nature Is Good—Contrary to Public Opinion

What was Rousseau’s view of human nature? How did his philosophy find its way into the mainstream? In the 18th and early 19th centuries, the traditional Christian view of innate sinfulness began to give way to a new school of thought in the West. According to Jean-Jacques Rousseau, human nature is essentially good. This philosophy took hold in Western thought, and it ultimately transformed society. Read more to learn about Rousseau’s view of human nature, morality, and the self.

The Rise and Triumph of the Modern Self: Book Overview

Is there a cultural revolution going on in the West? If so, when and how did it start? What does our sense of self have to do with it? In The Rise and Triumph of the Modern Self, Carl Trueman argues that cultural developments of the past three centuries have transformed our conception of selfhood. It’s changed from a self rooted in religion, tradition, and community to one rooted in individualism, emotion, and sexuality. Continue reading for an overview of this thought-provoking book.

4 Benefits of Discipline: Ryan Holiday’s Formula for the Good Life

Are your emotions out of control and creating self-destructive patterns? How can discipline help these patterns? Discipline isn’t easy, but it’s worth it. In Discipline Is Destiny, Ryan Holiday outlines several of its advantages. Discipline can keep you from going to extremes, helps you live a good life, regulates your emotions, and increases your self-awareness. Let’s take a closer look at these four benefits of discipline that you can experience.

Discipline Is Destiny by Ryan Holiday: Overview & Takeaways

How does a tidy workspace add to your quality of life? Why should you deliberately subject yourself to unpleasant experiences? In Discipline Is Destiny, Ryan Holiday explains what discipline is and why it matters. He describes how to practice discipline throughout various stages of your life, which will help you resist urges that will knock you off course. Read below for an overview of Discipline Is Destiny.

How to Deal With Hard Times: Managing Pain, Negativity, & Failure

How well do you tolerate pain? Do you have the urge to fight back when people treat you poorly? Do you let failure keep you from reaching your goals? As you go through life, you’ll inevitably encounter hardship. However, Discipline Is Destiny by Ryan Holiday asserts that practicing discipline can help you deal with three types of hardship: pain, negativity, and failure. Check out how to deal with hard times and push through to brighter days.

How to Be Rational: 3 Ways to Anchor Yourself in Reality

Do you see things as they truly are, or do strong emotions and desires cloud your vision? Do you care too much about what others think? Robert Greene believes that rationality will help you live a fulfilling life that’s grounded in reality. To view and approach your life more rationally, he advises that you control your emotions, develop a stronger sense of self, and see things through a neutral lens. Keep reading to learn how to be rational by employing these three strategies.