In today’s episode, we’re exploring the life and philosophy of the famous cynic Diogenes of Sinope, possibly one of the most eccentric philosophers in history.

Known for his extreme cynicism and audacious public antics, Diogenes challenged the social and moral norms of his time with a philosophy that is as radical today as it was over two thousand years ago. From living in a ceramic jar to asking Alexander the Great to move because he was blocking the sun, Diogenes' story is a beautiful exploration of what it means to live in accordance with nature.

Much love, David

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In this episode, we'll cover

Who Was Diogenes? A look at Diogenes’ early life, his scandalous start in Sinope, and his transformation into a philosopher in Athens.

Core Tenets of Diogenes’ Philosophy. An exploration of the principles of Cynicism, including living in virtue, the rejection of conventional desires, and the embrace of ascetic simplicity.

Anecdotes and Provocations. Famous stories about Diogenes, including his search for an honest man and his memorable encounters with other philosophers like Plato and public figures like Alexander the Great.

Diogenes’ Influence and Legacy. How Diogenes' ideas influenced later philosophies like Stoicism and continue to resonate in modern times.

The Relevance of Diogenes Today. A discussion on how Diogenes' life and teachings challenge us to reflect on our own societal norms and personal values.

Links and Resources

* The Internet Encyclopaedia of Philosophy

* Diogenes of Sinope - Life and Legend, 2nd Edition

* Philosopher’s Mag - Diogenes of Sinope

Connect With Us

* Email - theobservingi@substack.com

* YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@theobservingi

* Instagram - @theobservingi

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In today’s episode, we’re venturing into the sceptical world of the 18th Century philosopher David Hume.

Hume shook the foundations of science, morality, and our sense of self and identity. From his early philosophical crisis, to his critique of the traditional notion of causality, we’ll be exploring how his sceptical mind questioned the limits of human knowledge.

We’ll look at how his ideas can be applied to our lives today, through tools such as emotional awareness, critical thinking, and the embracing of uncertainty. And, to give you a healthy balance, we’ll be exploring the critiques of his work and how it was challenged by thinkers of the time.

Share your thoughts on Humean thinking on social media using #TheObservingI, or in the comments section below. And let us know what other philosophers you'd like us to explore in future episodes!

Much love, David

The Observing I is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

Resources

* A Treatise of Human Nature - https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/80311.A_Treatise_of_Human_Nature

* An Enquiry Concerning Human Understanding - https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/130119.An_Enquiry_Concerning_Human_Understanding*

* An Enquiry Concerning the Principles of Morals - https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/839433.An_Enquiry_Concerning_the_Principles_of_Morals

In today’s episode, we explore the curious case of Hermes Trismegistus, a philosopher who lived at the convergence of Egyptian, Greek, and Roman culture.

We'll explore who this mysterious figure might have been (*clue: it wasn’t Thoth), the core principles of Hermetic philosophy, and how they've shaped thinkers from the Renaissance to the present day.

We’ll talk about how Hermeticism can be useful in our lives today, and some of the potential pitfalls and critiques of the philosophy. Such as quiche manifestation. That’s right. Quiche.

Share your thoughts on Hermeticism on social media using #TheObservingI, or in the comments section below. And let us know what other philosophers you'd like us to explore in future episodes!

Much love,David

The Observing I is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

Resources

* The Kybalion - https://amzn.eu/d/dRttLXd