While reading some passages about the relationship of the lover of wisdom to the body in Damascius’ commentary on the Phaedo this week, a mesh of associations captured me like a net, and I started thinking about something I first encountered as a teenager — the idea that, if we fall ill, or if something … Continue reading The Phaedo, piety, and public health
Month: September 2021
Advice About Honoring Gods for the Anxious
The Gods are beautiful and worthy of worship. If you are anxious about honoring them, don't feel embarrassed. This post walks through some false beliefs and expectations that are useful for anyone with such anxiety to address. A few days ago, I wrote something on social media because I was disquieted by some things I … Continue reading Advice About Honoring Gods for the Anxious
Getting Close to the Body with the Phaedo in Tow
At Phaedo 64a, Socrates — who will shortly be given hemlock by his executioner — begins one of many famous parts of this discussion by saying that “those who happen to have gotten in touch with philosophy in the right way devote themselves to nothing else but dying and being dead.” What follows is a … Continue reading Getting Close to the Body with the Phaedo in Tow
