ON KNOWLEDGE
Selected Works Vol. 01
SELECTED WORKS
September '23
A selection of works on the invaluable practice of learning, reflection and the pursuit of knowledge.
THE VALUE OF PHILOSOPHY
By Bertrand Russell
An essay that explores the intrinsic worth of philosophical inquiry ~ a practice that begins with a sense of wonder and curiosity about the world, in the pursuit of knowledge and personal development. Here, Russel inspires us to nurture our own curiosity and love of wisdom, through philosophy as an exploration of fundamental questions regarding existence, human experience. He argues that although philosophy may not offer definitive answers, its value lies in its ability to stimulate intellectual curiosity, challenge assumptions, and foster a love of wisdom.
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SLOUCHING TOWARDS BETHLEHEM
By Joan Didion
In this collection of essays, Didion paints a vivid picture of the social and cultural upheaval of the 1960’s in California. Through her depiction of a society in flux, grappling with uncertainty and transformation she invites us as readers to reflect on our own lives, the world around us and our place in it.
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ON THE SHORTNESS OF LIFE
By Seneca
In this short work by Roman Stoic philosopher Seneca, we are invited to recognize the brevity of our precious time on this earth and the value of reflection, lifelong learning and intellectual curiosity. He argues that through introspective reflection to prioritise what truly matters, we find meaning in the pursuit of wisdom and can lead a fulfilling life, directed by purposeful intention.
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INSIGHT HOUR EP88: RELATIVE TRUTH VS. ULTIMATE TRUTH
By Joseph Goldstein
In the 88th episode of “Insight Hour,” Joseph Goldstein (one of the key figures in bringing vipassana meditation to the West), explores the distinction between balancing our trust in the “relative truth” of our daily, lived experience and the “ultimate truth” that transcends temporal conditions. Joseph suggests that by cultivating a deeper understanding of the ultimate truth of impermanence and the interconnectedness of all things, we can develop a more profound and unshakable sense of peace and trust in the fundamental nature of reality.
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THEORY AS LIBERATORY PRACTICE
By bell hooks
An essay within the book Teaching to Transgress in which feminist scholar and activist, bell hooks, explores the role of theory as an empowering practice of personal, social and political liberation. She advocates for a personal pedagogy of curiosity, highlighting that we ought to remember theory is not limited to academia, but can be accessible and applicable in our daily life to engage in critical thinking.
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DEAD POETS SOCIETY
By Peter Weir, 1989
Set in a British preparatory school, this film follows an inspirational teacher who demonstrates the transformative power of education to his students, who come to represent ourselves as viewers. Underscoring the value of literature and poetry as means of self-expression, reflection, and emotional connection, we are inspired to think critically, embrace literature, and seize the day to make choices that align with our authentic selves rather than blindly conforming to societal norms.
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