Philosophy

The Proximity of Pain: The Role of Pleasure in Suffering

The Proximity of Pain: The Role of Pleasure in Suffering

The premise of classic utilitarian philosophy rests on the fundamental status of pleasure and pain, each denoted as the countervailing opposites of experience.  Pain is inherently bad and pleasure inherently good; the course of moral conduct aims to maximize pleasure and minimize pain for the greatest number of sentient subjects.  Modern proponents of act utilitarianism

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When I Practice, I Practice for All

When I Practice, I Practice for All

How inner work reaches beyond ourselves              “I am human, and therefore nothing human can be foreign to me.”  This quote from Terence, ancient Roman poet and playwright, crystalizes the unity of human experience.  In a world of diversity and intersectionality, to ponder universality is to tread on dangerous ground.  One cannot easily generalize personal

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Is Critical-Mindedness Good for Mental Health?

Is Critical-Mindedness Good for Mental Health?

Is Critical Mindedness Good for Mental Health?             Being a curmudgeon is more than a matter of disposition: it is a practiced art.  Every social gathering bound by pleasantries and blandishments can do with a spicy dose of disruption.  Is this the menacing habit of self-appointed contrarians, who cannot feel their own weight and density

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