‘The examined life’

     
‘The unexamined life is not worth living.’
Socrates


A wonderful and welcome announcement from the School of Practical Philosophy. From the publicity (and this is not an April Fool’s joke):


To celebrate 50 years of philosophy classes in New York, we are offering Philosophy Works as a gift to you – no regular fee, just a $10 administrative charge.

School of Practical Philosophy

12 East 79th Street

Manhattan

This course is for anyone who has asked themselves “What am I doing here?” and who wants to expand their world, their thinking, and the view they have of themselves. Discussions are underpinned by the philosophy of unity, or Advaita, a universal, non-denominational teaching literally meaning “not two.” This is Eastern in origin, but of universal application because it points to the unity underlying all things.

The course is broad in scope, and is intended to be of real practical use. There are further opportunities available for anyone who subsequently wishes to deepen their studies. The approach is practical rather than academic. There are no exams to pass. No sitting at desks. The course does not offer certificates or diplomas, but something much more important – a living philosophy that is of real value in dealing with the challenges of everyday life, and developing one’s own potential as fully as possible.

Thus, Philosophy Works encourages everyone to access their inner happiness, wisdom and strength. The premise is that within each of us is an inexhaustible source of nourishment, well being and understanding. The classes put students in touch with this inner resource through the presentation of key principles and lively discussions of experience in putting these principles into practice.

Classes are available every day, except Sundays, and both in morning and evening times. To register, click here.

The classes:

THE WISDOM WITHIN – What is Philosophy? Why study Philosophy?
Introduction to two very practical exercises in awareness.

LEVELS OF AWARENESS – The wise live a life governed by principle.
How often and for how long are we awake?

BEING AWAKE – How can we live more consciously and with greater purpose? Observation and the spirit of inquiry.

THE POWER OF ATTENTION – How can we increase the power of attention and realize our full potential? What you give your attention to grow.

THE POWER OF LISTENING –
The difference between hearing and listening. Breaking habits of unnecessary speech.
Learning to listen.

BEAUTY: A NEW WAY OF SEEING –
When awareness and attention are open, how far can we see? Where is Beauty? What is beauty itself?
A practical investigation based on Plato’s Symposium.

WHO ME? A REMEDY FOR NEGATIVE FEELINGS –
Who is the center of attention? What can be done about the negativity that limits our awareness and happiness? Introduction to a time-tested remedy for negative feelings.

SELF-KNOWLEDGE: WHAT AM I? –
How can we wake up more often during the day?
Am I this body? Mind? Heart? Is there more?
Self-knowledge through observation: If you can see it, you can’t be it.

UNITY IN DIVERSITY –
What is the ultimate aim of this study?
”Widening our circle of compassion.”
The philosophy of non-duality.

THE DESIRE FOR TRUTH –
What are the marks of truth?
Would we like to live more truthful lives? 
The Good Impulse and the way forward.