The Great Books of the Western Canon, organized by Mortimer J. Adler in the Syntopicon, span 102 enduring ideas—ranging from Truth, Beauty, and Justice to Democracy, Love, and God. These categories trace the intellectual tradition of the West, connecting philosophy, literature, history, science, and theology. Together, they map the recurring questions and principles shaping human thought across centuries.
Justice as the Virtue of the State: A Philosophical Exploration The concept of justice extends far beyond individual morality; it is a fundamental characteristic, indeed a virtue, of a well-ordered State. From ancient Greek philosophers like Plato and Aristotle to modern thinkers such as Locke and Kant, the question of...
Navigating the Moral Compass: The Enduring Quest for Good and Evil The concepts of Good and Evil stand as the bedrock of any moral system, serving as the fundamental poles around which human action, judgment, and societal structures revolve. From ancient philosophical inquiries to theological doctrines and modern ethical frameworks,...
The Enduring Confrontation: The Opposition of Virtue and Vice The human experience, at its deepest philosophical core, is often defined by a fundamental tension: the opposition of virtue and vice. This isn't merely a quaint moral dichotomy but a dynamic, ever-present struggle that shapes our choices, defines our...
The Virtue of Temperance over Pleasure The pursuit of pleasure is a fundamental human drive, yet history's greatest thinkers have consistently warned against its unbridled indulgence. This article explores temperance not as mere abstinence, but as a profound virtue – a rational mastery over our desires that leads to...
The Shifting Sands of Right and Wrong: An Exploration of Moral Customs Summary: Moral customs are not immutable decrees etched in stone, but rather dynamic constructs that evolve over time, shaped by societal changes, philosophical discourse, technological advancements, and shifting understandings of human nature. This article delves into the philosophical...
The Ethical Duty of Temperance: A Cornerstone of Flourishing Summary: In an age often characterized by excess and instant gratification, the ancient concept of temperance might seem quaint. However, as we explore the foundational texts of Western thought, it becomes undeniably clear that temperance is not merely a suggestion for...
The Prudent Path: Navigating Wealth with Wisdom Wealth, in its myriad forms, presents humanity with a profound challenge: how to acquire, manage, and utilize it in a manner that fosters human flourishing rather than degradation. This article argues that prudence, often considered the "charioteer of the virtues" in...
The Idea of Temperance in Politics: A Timeless Virtue for Good Governance Summary: The idea of temperance, often understood as self-control and moderation, is not merely a personal virtue but a cornerstone for effective and just government. Drawing from the enduring wisdom of the Great Books of the Western World,...
The Indivisible Link: Exploring the Profound Connection Between Courage and Honor The concepts of courage and honor have captivated philosophers and storytellers for millennia, often appearing hand-in-hand as the cornerstones of a virtuous life. Far from being mere coincidences, their relationship is deeply symbiotic, each quality not only reinforcing the...
The Guiding Hand: The Role of Prudence in Temperance Summary: This article explores the profound and often underestimated relationship between Prudence and Temperance, arguing that the former is the indispensable intellectual virtue that guides and perfects the latter. Drawing upon the rich tradition of the Great Books of the Western...
Cultivating Character: The Indissoluble Link Between Habit and Virtue The profound connection between our daily habits and the development of our character is a cornerstone of classical philosophy. Drawing heavily from ancient Greek thinkers, particularly Aristotle, this article explores how virtue is not an innate trait but a cultivated disposition,...