Philosophy as Spiritual Practice

From antiquity to the present, the philosopher has been concerned with cultivating artful ways of living through intentional “spiritual exercises.” This seminar offers a historical survey of ancient and modern approaches to philosophy as a way of life and the spiritual exercises these approaches entail. Special attention will be given to ideas about the self and human flourishing, the nature of freedom and responsibility, the question of democratic community and tradition, the question of God and religion, and the ethical status of nature. We will carefully consider how these ideas intersect with various spiritual practices and exercises, including walking, storytelling, cultivating the senses, paying attention, cultivating virtue and character, stoic contemplative exercises, ritual practice, work, prayer, forgiveness, and love. Finally, we will try out some of these exercises to gain a deeper understanding of these different philosophical approaches to life.