This excerpt from an audio recording outlines a philosophical exercise designed to provide moral guidance. The speaker proposes that each participant imagines their own obituary, written by a close friend, assuming they have fulfilled their highest human aspirations. This imaginary obituary serves as a "life ideal," an image that guides one's choices and actions. The speaker argues that having such a life ideal is crucial for moral orientation; without it, individuals become susceptible to ex...
This extract is the opening of a philosophy course taught by an individual who, at the outset, sets out the expectations, structure and purpose of the course. He stresses the importance of a shared commitment to the pursuit of knowledge for its own sake, especially given the perceived lack of philosophical engagement in Brazil. He also emphasizes the importance of community and finding like-minded individuals to support and encourage each other's philosophical development. By framing the cour...