#endurance philosophy

[borngeniusworld]

Don't Quit, Until You Win

Don’t Quit Until You Win Quotes 1. “Don’t quit. Suffer now and live the rest of your life as a champion.” – Muhammad Ali 2. “Success is not final, failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts.” – Winston Churchill 3. “It’s not whether you get knocked down, it’s whether you get up.” – Vince Lombardi 4. “Winners never quit, and quitters never win.” – Vince Lombardi 5. “The…

[theabigailthorn]

tfw one of your fave blogs shuts down

[thepersonalwords]

Life is all about endurance.

Lailah Gifty Akita

[blackswaneuroparedux]

To those human beings who are of any concern to me I wish suffering, desolation, sickness, ill-treatment, indignities - I wish that they should not remain unfamiliar with profound self-contempt, the torture of self-mistrust, the wretchedness of the vanquished: I have no pity for them, because I wish them the only thing that can prove today whether one is worth anything or not - that one endures.

- Friedrich Nietzsche, The Will to Power

[occasionaltouhou]

tangent time. i genuinely don't think there are Bad People and i think assigning a touhou as a Bad Person is a moral trap. many touhous - arguably, almost every touhou - is an antagonist; a number of touhous are, by the technical definition, villains; but a Bad Person?

what measure is a bad person, in this context? is reimu evil for enforcing an inherently unnatural status quo that she knows, for a fact, sometimes kills people? you could easily make the argument that she is. but we accept that gensokyo exists as part of the default, and therefore we find ourselves framing things against it.

is seiga a Bad Person? is there no possible reframing of the situation in which she could be a protagonist? is the rebellious seija evil, for defying a world she sees as incorrect? are the lunarians evil? are the residents of the animal realm evil? are the residents of hell evil? is there truly a character you can so callously condemn with the title of "Bad Person"?

is an eagle evil for snatching a newborn mouse from the hole it came from? is a snake evil for poisoning a child that disturbed its home? is there any true good or evil in a world built of circumstances?

[arabdoll]

"Freedom is the will to be responsible for ourselves. It is to preserve the distance which separates us from other men. To grow more indifferent to hardship, to severity, to privation, and even to life itself. To be ready to sacrifice men for one's cause, one's self included".

Fredrick Nietzsche

[andreai04]

You could leave life right now. Let that determine what you do and say and think.

If it doesn’t harm your character, how can it harm your life?

People try to get away from it all—to the country, to the beach, to the mountains. You always wish that you could too. Which is idiotic: you can get away from it anytime you like.

By going within.

Nowhere you can go is more peaceful—more free of interruptions—than your own soul.

The tranquility that comes when you stop caring what they say. Or think, or do. Only what you do.

Is an emerald suddenly flawed if no one admires it?

Ask yourself at every moment, “Is this necessary?”

Consider the abyss of time past, the infinite future. Three days of life or three generations: what's the difference?

The impediment to action advances action.

What stands in the way becomes the way.

How many unkind people have you been kind to?

Wait for it patiently—annihilation or metamorphosis.

Fight to be the person philosophy tried to make you.

You accept the limits placed on your body. Accept those placed on your time.

You've wandered all over and finally realized that you never found what you were after: how to live.

You want praise from people who kick themselves every fifteen minutes, the approval of people who despise themselves. (Is it a sign of self-respect to regret nearly everything you do?)

[sapiavividus]

“A culture's ability to understand the world and itself is critical to its survival. But today, we are led into the arena of public debate by seers whose main gift is their ability to compel people to continue to watch them.” — George Saunders

The Dystopia of Distraction: A Philosophical Perspective on Cultural Survival in the Age of Spectacle

In a time when the complexities of our collective existence are meticulously interlaced with cultural dynamics, George Saunders articulates a profound truth that reverberates ominously: “a culture's ability to understand the world and itself is critical to its survival.” This astute insight pierces the veneer of human civilization, compelling us to scrutinize the fragile condition of our global society.

Our very survival is contingent not solely on the capacity to navigate tangible adversities, but on the intellectual and philosophical scaffolding that constructs our moral frameworks and shapes our identities. It is within this intricate lattice that our understanding—or misunderstanding—of self and society manifests, dictating the trajectory of our cultural evolution and, ultimately, our fate. Such a state demands a rigorous introspection, as we balance on the precipice of cultural coherence, where the interplay of knowledge and self-awareness becomes the fulcrum upon which our future hinges.

Amid the mind-bending intricacies of contemporary existence, we face a disconcerting truth. The soothsayers of our era—those who propagate ideologies and values—tend to be adept entertainers rather than authentic visionaries. In the arena of socio-political discourse, where substantive societal inquiries ought to dominate, we find ourselves ensnared in a spectacle crafted to enthrall rather than to illuminate.

This shift represents not merely a decline in rigorous intellectual scrutiny, but signals a treacherous withdrawal from sincere comprehension. We witness a society captivated by the allure of distraction, where superficial engagement supplants profound dialogue. Such an environment fosters a culture in which the pursuit of genuine understanding is overshadowed by the shiny façade of performance, leaving us perilously adrift in a sea of misinformation and vacuous rhetoric. The implications of this decline are profound; it threatens to undermine the very foundations of critical thought and sincere civic engagement, establishing a dangerous paradigm that prioritizes allure over authenticity and truth.

The Spectacle of Distraction: A Political Dystopia

In the shadows of our political landscape, a landscape marred by hyper-partisanship and ideological extremism, we find ourselves confronted with a grim introspection. This realm has transmuted into a theater where the essence of truth is sacrificed, not for enlightenment but at the altar of ratings and fleeting attention. Once a crucible for democratic engagement, public debate has now devolved into a gladiatorial arena, dominated by charismatic figures who thrive on spectacle while disregarding substance.

The psychological ramifications of this transformation are profound. The public, relegated to the role of passive consumers, absorbs a deluge of bite-sized opinions, a reflection of a broader societal malaise characterized by a fundamental disconnection from the intricacies of critical thought and moral reasoning. This dissociation breeds a populace susceptible to manipulation, entrapped in a cycle of superficiality that neglects the deeper inquiries essential for genuine understanding.

In this morally precarious environment, the complicity of institutions becomes glaringly apparent. Political bodies, media conglomerates, and social platforms, whether intentionally or unwittingly, collaborate to sustain this culture of distraction. The relentless barrage of sensationalist headlines diminishes the space needed for thoughtful engagement, leaving little room for grappling with the profound complexities that now beset our global society.

In light of this troubling reality, we must consider a psychological and moral imperative: a complete withdrawal from these corrosive systems. Disengaging from the superficiality that permeates our discourse is not merely an option but a necessary strategy for reclaiming our intellectual and moral autonomy. By consciously detaching ourselves from the allure of immediate gratification, we pave the way to reclaiming depth, confronting uncomfortable truths, and embarking on a quest for authentic understanding.

This withdrawal is not an act of retreat but an assertion of agency; it is a declaration that we shall no longer allow ourselves to be ensnared by the seductions of distraction. Only through this resolute disengagement can we hope to resurrect a culture that values depth over diversion and fosters a renewed commitment to the profound inquiries that define our humanity.

The Religious Undercurrents: Faith in the Age of Disillusionment

At the tumultuous crossroads of culture and religion, we find ourselves in a nightmarish landscape that evokes not just moral outrage but a profound sense of despair. Once noble vessels of wisdom and hope, spiritual institutions are increasingly ensnared by the venomous grasp of populism, a force that thrives on division, fear, and uncertainty. As faith dwindles and skepticism spreads like wildfire, these struggling entities, desperate to stay afloat, turn to sensationalism, sacrificing authenticity for the allure of fleeting relevance.

This tragic descent into moral chaos is not just a symptom of societal upheaval; it has far-reaching consequences that intertwine with the very fabric of our economic reality. In a world where clicks and views equate to currency, religious institutions scramble to attract attention, latching onto populist rhetoric that resonates with a weary and disenchanted audience. This reliance on shock value not only distorts sacred teachings but aligns them with the ruthless mechanics of a marketing-driven society, where the quest for spiritual meaning is drowned out by the noise of profit-seeking agendas.

As these institutions contort their narratives to draw in followers and secure financial support, they risk losing sight of the profound purpose that once underpinned their existence. This betrayal of sacred values transforms spirituality into a commodity, stripping away its essence and replacing it with a hollow spectacle designed to capture our fleeting attention. For those yearning for connection and meaning, this manipulation deepens their confusion and intensifies their sense of isolation.

The implications are dire. This moral degradation does more than erode spiritual integrity; it plunges us further into an economic quagmire that reflects our collective disillusionment. As we grapple with questions of identity and belonging, the intersection of faith and commerce creates a transactional reality that exacerbates feelings of alienation and desperation. In this heart-wrenching context, it becomes imperative to confront these overwhelming forces with unfettered courage, reclaiming the intrinsic value of spirituality and transcending the corrosive pull of populism.

We must rise against this tide of moral decay, not only for ourselves but for the sake of future generations. It is time to unearth the genuine truths that lie buried beneath the wreckage of sensationalism and reclaim a discourse that honors our shared humanity. This is a call to arms, a clarion call for those seeking clarity amid the chaos: we must strive to restore the sanctity and direction that spiritual guidance once provided, standing steadfast in the face of despair and confusion. Together, we can reshape the very narrative of our collective experience, transforming anguish into hope, and uncertainty into real purpose.

Global Institutions: The Complexity of Institutional Response

In the aftermath of the First World War, we witnessed the emergence of institutions that promised unity and progress, yet these ambitious ventures have often devolved into nests of corruption and dysfunction. The League of Nations, once envisioned as a herald of collective security, ultimately collapsed under the weight of its own failings. Today, the United Nations, born from similar aspirations, finds itself ensnared in the very same traps, with leaders resorting to empty rhetoric while prioritizing their own ambitions over the collective well-being of humanity.

What we are confronting is a harsh reality steeped in moral complexity. Climate change conferences and diplomatic dialogues may appear to be proactive steps, yet they frequently yield little beyond superficial gestures. Behind the scenes, a disconcerting pattern unfolds: powerful individuals exploit crises to sculpt advantageous narratives, all while the pressing realities of ecological collapse, social injustice, and global turmoil remain unaddressed.

The truth is stark: blind faith in these imperfect institutions leads us into complacency, exacerbating the decay of our shared principles. The allure of these structures often masks a more sinister reality, where the ambitions of the privileged few overshadow the needs of the many.

Now is the time to adopt a mindset of keen discernment and strategic prudence. We must acknowledge that genuine progress requires more than just optimism; it demands a meticulous examination of our institutions and a relentless pursuit of justice. The tendency to look away must be eradicated; we must expose the vulnerabilities of these systems and challenge the status quo with unwavering resolve.

Let us support completely neutral and apolitical movements that are true to their appearance in the endeavor to wrest power from corrupt entities. Identify and elevate leaders whose aspirations align with the common good, rejecting those who merely seek to further their own interests. Advocate for frameworks that prioritize the collective over the individual, establishing a society where fairness and empathy outshine the desires of the elite.

In this pursuit, we must strive for a future characterized by astute governance, ensuring our institutions reflect our highest ideals rather than devolving into tools of corruption and oppression. By embracing this strategic ethos, we can reclaim the narrative and guide our collective destiny toward a reality where dignity, integrity, and communal welfare stand as the bedrock of our actions and policies.

Reclaiming the Narrative: The Path Forward

To the disoriented and fatigued reader, recognize this crucial truth: nestled deep within your psyche lies an immense potential, an intrinsic power yearning to be awakened. The struggle for cultural survival transcends the superficial; it demands a radical commitment to reclaiming our narrative and actively resisting the sinister forces that strive to impose a passive existence upon us. It is time to shatter the illusions of complacency and embrace your role as a deliberate architect of your own destiny.

We must refine our discernment into a razor-sharp instrument, one that penetrates the overwhelming din of contemporary discourse. Surface-level engagement is no longer sufficient; we must plunge into the depths of inquiry, confronting the provocative questions that both unsettle and define our existence. This intellectual expedition requires us to reject trivial distractions, opting instead for the profound connections that challenge and invigorate our understanding, igniting a collective fervor for truth.

The revitalization of our critical faculties must be regarded as an urgent communal endeavor. We must cultivate spaces that encourage profound debate and authentic exploration of our values, arenas where divergent perspectives clash, fostering a crucible for intellectual growth. It is within these spaces that we can dissect the intricate tapestries of our identities and societal structures, underlining the psychological layers that shape our collective consciousness.

As we navigate the illusions and spectacles that threaten to dull our perceptual acuity, we embark on a shared odyssey toward genuine enlightenment. This journey is not merely academic; it is an intensely emotional struggle, demanding both introspection and active engagement. By delving into our own motivations, fears, and cognitive biases, we can fortify our cultural foundations, crafting a society not only resilient to external pressures but also capable of transformative change in the face of the reality-bending complexities of the 21st century.

Accept this challenge: awaken the latent strength within you and rise as a defender of culture, reclaiming your narrative with urgency and ferocity. In the psychological battleground for clarity and intention, we must not only fight for individual empowerment but also for the collective soul of our society, architecting a future that mirrors our deepest values and revolutionary spirit. Together, we cultivate a consciousness that resists subjugation, allowing our shared aspirations to flourish amid the chaos of modern life.

Conclusion: The Future of Our Cultural Survival

In the contemporary arena, beset by the dissonance of distractions, we find ourselves poised at a critical juncture, a moment that demands not just our attention but our resolve. Saunders' astute observation transcends a mere critique of the shallow entertainments that pummel our senses; it emerges as a profound call to vigilance—a summons to grapple with the potent forces that ensnare us in an enduring labyrinth of delusion and disconnect.

This considerable challenge is not merely an intellectual pursuit; it is an imperative to wrest back control, to safeguard the integrity of not only our minds but also the sanctity of our families and those we hold dear. It is through ardent engagement with the world of knowledge, tempered with the sophistication of meaningful discourse, that we forge a pathway toward a future in which our culture not only endures but flourishes, steeped in a profound comprehension of itself and the multifaceted reality it inhabits.

To resist the pervasive allure of distraction is to reclaim our agency, to dismantle not just the visible barriers but also the insidious psychological chains that obscure our judgments. This pursuit is a noble endeavor, one that offers the promise of enlightenment—a promise that can protect and empower our loved ones, fortifying them against the mindless tide of information that seeks to overwhelm.

As we traverse this complex landscape, we must embrace the discomfort that the pursuit of truth often demands. Rather than retreating, we should meet this challenge with an unwavering spirit, cultivating a culture within our families that thrives on critical inquiry and shared wisdom. It is through this relentless quest for understanding that we illuminate the shadows of ignorance, rendering our collective consciousness expansive and resilient.

Let us not view this mission as a burden; rather, let it be seen as an immeasurable opportunity to craft a legacy imbued with wisdom and strength. By embracing this call to action, we are not merely protecting our own—we are sculpting an enlightened community capable of withstanding the tribulations of an increasingly chaotic world. In this endeavor, we redefine our relationships—not just with knowledge, but with one another—imbuing our lives with purpose, connectivity, and an invincible spirit of hope.

Thank you for reading!

[thepursuitofunderstanding]

Oh, love isn't there to make us happy. I believe it exists to show us how much we can endure.

Hermann Hesse

[olenaart]

(via "Life's Umbrella - Embracing the Journey" Graphic T-Shirt for Sale by OLena Art ❣️)'Life's Umbrella', a stunning piece featuring an intricately decorated umbrella against a contrasting black background. The ornate design and delicate details create a sense of depth and texture, while a poignant quote by Robert Frost adds a contemplative dimension to the piece. I was inspired to create this artwork as a reflection on the enduring nature of life, even in the face of adversity. I am thrilled to share this piece with you and hope it sparks meaningful contemplation. #Art #NewArtwork #LifesUmbrella"  The design on the umbrella's canopy is ornate, incorporating a variety of floral and paisley patterns which are densely packed together to form a lace-like texture. The individual elements display a high degree of detail, with small flowers, leaves, and swirling forms that contribute to the overall delicate and elaborate appearance.Subtle gradations of white suggest a sense of volume and shading, giving the artwork a three-dimensional feel. This effect is enhanced by the highlights along the edges and tip of the umbrella, which seem to replicate the reflective quality of a glossy surface.The handle of the umbrella has a classic hooked shape, which is rendered with a lighter touch, allowing for the texture of the surface below to show through, as it seems to rest on a reflective wet surface, mimicking the presence of water droplets or a puddle.Beneath the umbrella, there is a quote in white text attributed to Robert Frost which reads: "In three words I can sum up everything I've learned about life: it goes on." The presence of this quote adds a philosophical or contemplative dimension to the piece, inviting the viewer to reflect on the endurance and continuity of life, possibly in the face of adversities symbolized by the protective nature of the umbrella.

[wellenklavier]

auughh i want to do too many things theres not enough hours in the day or dollars in my bank account

[borngeniusworld]

Don't Quit, Until You Win

Don’t Quit Until You Win Quotes 1. “Don’t quit. Suffer now and live the rest of your life as a champion.” – Muhammad Ali 2. “Success is not final, failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts.” – Winston Churchill 3. “It’s not whether you get knocked down, it’s whether you get up.” – Vince Lombardi 4. “Winners never quit, and quitters never win.” – Vince Lombardi 5. “The…

[bwhitex]

Merry Christmas!

This festive season, as we gather to celebrate warmth, generosity, and good cheer, and ready ourselves for the holiday tomorrow. It's the perfect moment to reflect on a gift that isn't found under the tree: the enduring gift of virtue. Rooted in ancient Greek philosophy, the ideals of moral excellence have traveled through time, inviting us to ponder—what does it truly mean to be virtuous in today's world? Let's unwrap this timeless question together, exploring how the virtues of old can illuminate the path to a more compassionate and upright life amidst the modern holiday bustle.

As we deck the halls and unwrap the gifts, have we considered the greatest present of all a life adorned with virtue? How might the spirit of this season inspire us to embody the ancient wisdom of Greek philosophers in our modern world? Firstly, would one define exactly what virtue means anyways? Below I have developed an equation to explain and define just that:

Virtue = (Wisdom + Courage + Temperance + Justice) Compassion

This equation literally read virtue is wisdom, courage, temperance and justice all maximized compassion. The concept of virtue is indeed intriguing and multifaceted. At its core, the question arises: Can one lead a virtuous life while being secular? To unravel this, we must consider the core virtues that are universally esteemed.

Foremost, wisdom in essence guides people like moral compass and informs our choices. Alongside wisdom, courage is indispensable, for it empowers us to resist vices, which are often the path of least resistance. The prevalence of vice is evident in human society, reflecting our inherent imperfections. It is perhaps our recognition of these flaws that leads us to conceive of deities ideals of perfection beyond our mortal capacities.

Temperance, too, is vital, for it is the very measure that allows us to moderate our impulses and strive towards these higher ideals. In envisioning divine beings as 'not human,' we implicitly acknowledge this aspiration towards a transcendence of our baser nature.

Justice is another pillar of virtue, going beyond mere fairness to encompass the active pursuit of what is morally right. But the essence of virtue does not rest solely on wisdom, courage, temperance, and justice. These qualities reach their fullest expression through compassion—a force that amplifies and extends virtue beyond the self to the broader realm of external and internal human interaction.

In essence, to be virtuously secular is to embrace these universal values wisdom, courage, temperance, justice, and compassion not as divine edicts but as intrinsic components of human excellence and ethical living. Whenever mathematical notation, an equation has a symbol outside "()" but not in "[]" denotes an operation or function indicating multiplication, function application, or acts as a modifier or qualifier, which prescribes the method in which all elements within the "()" will be processed. Thus, it's not merely sufficient to possess wisdom, courage, temperance, and justice; the manner in which these virtues are expressed and enacted in societal interactions must be deeply infused with compassion. Within every methodology lies an inherent commitment to function, necessitating a duty to act and often a self-sacrificing element dedicated to generating desired outcomes.

The Atomic Meanings

In considering the etymological and philosophical underpinnings of virtue, we must acknowledge the intricate tapestry woven from the ancient threads of wisdom, courage, temperance, and justice, all amplified by compassion. The Greek origins of these terms provide a nuanced understanding that transcends their simple translations, embedding within them a rich history of philosophical thought. But each word used in my equation are actually composed of atomic values, and we should examine the roots, know what all the true oppositional forces and relational factors would be in the case of Virtue. The roots, are Greek of course, and we should know what these borrowed words meant first its original use, so we can understand fully the boundaries of what is meant.

Wisdom = deep understandings (Σophia) + discursive thought (Διάνοια) + comprehension of interconnectivity (Σύνεσις), + practical application (Φρόνησις)

Starting with the embodiment of Wisdom. Wisdom, in its most atomic form, it represents the sum deep understandings (Σophia), discursive thought (Διάνοια), comprehension of interconnectivity (Σύνεσις), and practical application (Φρόνησις). One would need know about more than thing, have reason and by that know the steps of how they got to their “knowing about more than one thing”, which means to analyze thing they know. Not only would they would the ability analyze, they’d need to be quick at it, then apply those knowledge systems with prudence. So precisely by aiming them at something useful and with boundaries. This multifaceted construct suggests that true wisdom is not merely about knowing facts but also involves the ability to think critically, understand complex systems, and apply knowledge judiciously in the real world. Wisdom is thus a dynamic interplay between intellect and action, theory and practice, knowledge and its purposeful utilization.

Courage = Ability (Ἀνδρεία (Andreia) + enduranceὙπομονή (Hypomone) + progress Προκοπή (Prokope) + disclosure Ἀλήθεια (Aletheia))

Now, to embody courage. Here, with all its atomic meaning next to it, this equation reads that courage is the sum of ability, endurance, progress and disclosure.

This Greek word (Ἀνδρεία) actually is a Greek word means “man”, and since females pick winners, the truest and smallest component for what this word actually means, is ability. Men are able, that’s what makes the whole species of humanity right now so centered around males, and also why matriarchal systems exist. It’s cause men, they are able, and they win. Courage encompasses more than mere ability though; it includes having an interest towards what is challenging, one must have the feeling of interest to face challenges, so endurance (Ἀνδρεία), and if one does that a natural outcome will be the feelings of joy and sadness towards their challenges. I say that because one may find interest in his challenges, sure joy will come from just our ability of looking problems straight in the face, there will be also be sadness, not just when we see well, we have a problem, and the ego processes it’s awareness in being vulnerable no. Sadness comes from hierarchy of value, realizing ability is ranked, most able is better, but also from a feeling of longing towards the whole struggle being over. There fore one must think of their reasons to suffer while able, thus the resilience towards hardships or possessing endurance (Ὑπομονή), matters.

To embody courage though we can’t as humans just embody all that, no one must commit. Have this sense of duty to the dedication to personal growth, or progress (Προκοπή). To embody the true meaning of Courage own would need all that and posses also a commitment to honest disclosure(Ἀλήθεια), of all that.

This robust virtue is not about reckless risk-taking but rather the cultivation of a steadfast character that can withstand adversity, pursue constant self-improvement, and remain anchored in honesty and authenticity.

Temperance = Moderation (Σωφροσύνη (Sophrosyne) + self mastery Ἐγκράτεια (Enkrateia) + gentle disposition Πραΰτης (Prautes) + sensible Φρόνιμος (Phronimos)

This equation literaty reads that Temperance is the sum of moderation, self mastery, gentle deposition, and sensible. To fully embody Temperance one is never just one thing, but middle, moderate (Σωφροσύνη), to do that one must also posses ability to apply limits to self, or self mastery (Ἐγκράτεια). They would also need to posses qualities of gentleness (Πραΰτης), and posses a practical form of sensibility (Φρόνιμος). Meaning the It is a virtue that calls for balance, self-discipline, and a gentle demeanor, coupled with their own reasons to navigate life's practical matters, with a degree resistance. Resistances here, one needs only to feel disgusted, fear, anxiety and anger with self, to resist an impulse and indulgence. A sensitivity to that but preference for feeling more joy, sadness and interest, matters in order to embody the balance and self limits necessary for true temperance. This equilibrium enables individuals to control their impulses and desires, leading to a harmonious and measured life.

Justice = Fairness (Δίκη (Dike) + Ἰσότης (Isotes) Universal + Rule Νόμος (Nomos) + Direct Εὐθύς (Euthus)

This equation reads, Justice is fair, universal, direct and rule. The full embodiment of Justice, as a virtue, is rooted in fairness (Δίκη). It also means means one must embody equality, and equality has both symmetrical and complimentary balances of which are universal (Ἰσότης). It means to be honesty or direct (Εὐθύς), and these are rules (Νόμος) in which one would self govern or laws in which to live by.

To embody justice one must have fair, universal, direct and rules. Direct rules, are active, but universal and fair principle that seeks to ensure that every individual is treated fairly and that society maintains a balance where rights and responsibilities are respected. Justice is not a passive state but a dynamic pursuit that requires vigilance and a commitment to upholding what is right and lawful, both in personal conduct and within the broader societal context.

Compassion = sensitivity to suffering (Συμπάθεια (Sympatheia) + supportive disposition Εὔνοια (Eunoia) + unconditional warmth Ἀγάπη (Agape) + sense of duty Φιλανθρωπία (Philanthropia)

This equation literally reads, compassion is the sum of sensitivity to suffering, supportive disposition, unconditional warmth, and a sense of duty. As a method, and amplifier of virtue, Compassion, is a profound synthesis of empathy, the emotinal and cognitive sensitivity to suffering(Συμπάθεια) of others. To fully embody it, use it as a method it must also be an act of goodwill, therefore one must posses a supportive disposition(Εὔνοια), which by the way, may not always be warm. But one must have an unconditional positive regard (Ἀγάπη), and a sense of duty or commitment to deliver on that (Φιλανθρωπία). The method of using compassion elevates the other virtues by adding a dimension of deep connection to humanity, an unwavering positive regard for others, and a drive to act benevolently. Compassion underscores that the practice of virtue is not solely for personal edification but is intrinsically linked to the well-being of others and the fabric of society.

Conclusion

This framework, deeply rooted in the philosophical and etymological origins, presents virtue not as a static quality but as an active engagement with life's complexities. Itacknowledges the multifaceted nature of human excellence, integrating both individual qualities and social responsibilities in a manner that is both timeless and profoundly relevant. Understanding virtue in this way requires a recognition of its composite parts, each with its own history and depth, coming together to form a whole that guides behavior and shapes character.

In classical Greek philosophy, virtues are complex constructs made up of various interrelated attributes that collectively define one's ethical and moral stature. Wisdom (Σοφία) in the Greek tradition is a composite of intellectual virtues, emphasizing not only knowledge but also the ability to apply that knowledge prudently and ethically (Aristotle, 1984). Courage (Ἀνδρεία) is understood as the capacity to face challenges and endure difficulties while maintaining moral integrity, a concept extensively explored in Aristotle's "Nicomachean Ethics" (Aristotle, 1984). Temperance (Σωφροσύνη) is portrayed as a balance between excess and deficiency, regulating one's desires and actions in accordance with reason (Plato, 2004). Justice (Δίκη) is a multifaceted virtue that involves fairness, respect for equality (Ἰσότης), and adherence to both the spirit and the letter of the law (Νόμος), a theme central to Plato's "Republic" (Plato, 2004). Compassion (Συμπάθεια) in Greek philosophy is less explicitly defined but is related to concepts of empathy and kindness toward others, which can be inferred from the general humanistic spirit of the Greek ethical tradition (Nussbaum, 1996). These virtues, deeply rooted in Greek thought, offer a framework for personal and social ethics that have enduring relevance.

The philosophical bedrock laid by ancient Greece serves as an enduring foundation for Western thought, stretching across oceans to shape our lives in the Americas. During the festive season of Christmas, when the dichotomy of "naughty" versus "nice" takes center stage, and the concepts of virtue and vice become part of the holiday narrative, it's a fitting time for reflection. This season's dichotomous labels are more than just tools for managing behavior; they echo age-old ethical teachings that trace back to classical antiquity. By encouraging children to be "nice," we're invoking the essence of Greek virtues—kindness, generosity, and truthfulness. This Christmas, let it be an opportunity for us to delve into the profound meanings behind these words. May we guide the young not simply with the notions of reward or punishment, but with the deeper understanding of what it means to cultivate a good character—reflecting the wisdom of a civilization that, though distant in time and space, still profoundly influences our own.

References:

Aristotle. (1984). The Complete Works of Aristotle: The Revised Oxford Translation (J. Barnes, Ed.). Princeton University Press.

Nussbaum, M. C. (1996). Compassion: The Basic Social Emotion. *Social Philosophy and Policy, 13*(1), 27-58. https://doi.org/10.1017/S0265052500001515

Plato. (2004). Republic (C.D.C. Reeve, Trans.). Hackett Publishing Company, Inc.

[crepuscular-girlthing]

i don't fundamentally disagree, philosophically. but i refuse to abdicate people for their acts of cruelty, malice, or even apathy based on their lived experience and material conditions. just because something evil was normalized or sanctioned by the social environment you're in doesn't abdicate your responsibility for your actions, and doesn't make you de facto innocent or absolvable.

rapists, agents of genocide, torturers - they all have elaborate complex social and philosophical systems in place to rationalize and normalize their behavior. they are people who came to these actions through cogent mental processes. that doesn't mean they shouldn't be opposed, disempowered to continue these actions, or be subjected to judgement and justice that isn't in accordance with their own desires.

it's so deeply normalized to discount victims as hysterical, as instigators cruelly seeking to harm weilders of patriarchal power. it's trivial, and entirely expected and normal, to demand victims live with and endure further abuse rather than be protected or hold their abusers accountable. no, no one is Ontologically Evil, but there are acts that are evil, and people to do them need to be stopped. arguing for their rights and wellbeing has to end at a certain point, or their rights will continue to extend to enacting the abuse they feel entitled to perform, impunity from consequences, and the silence of their victims. these are rights most abusers have right now, rights we're fighting to curtail so victims can have rights of their own: the rights to safety, justice, and support. as long as those rights are marginalized and denied, with lips service to them being treated as an overstep against the rights of abusers, these arguments will always trigger me and other survivors, and those who've known and loved victims, and serve to fight for the existing hegemony.

So, it finally clicked that while the average person does in fact broadly comprehend that people are neither good nor evil - they're good and bad, and have free will - they also can't understand why some people would fully commit themselves to completely awful causes or to being a terrible person throughout their entire lives. They can't really picture how this works, because they can't imagine themselves choosing to die on a hill of Being A Terrible Person.

This void in their comprehension is where the myth of the Ontologically Evil Person is very likely to come and settle in sooner or later, because it seems to finally provide an answer that makes sense of otherwise senseless cruelty and violence. Agonizing questions like "Why would my boyfriend spend so much energy on making me feel like shit and breaking me down?" "Why would this historical figure decided to kill all of these people?" and "Why would this guy go start a cult and murder everyone?" are finally given an answer, and the formerly-bewildered person finally has some peace of mind.

Because of this, the myth of the Ontologically Evil Person is incredibly hard to get out of people's minds once it takes root. For one thing, bad ideas are like bad habits; it doesn't really work to tell people to Just Stop With Them, because without something else to take its place? They're going to fall back on it.

And if somebody's been traumatized from abuse? The last thing they want to hear is that they're basically dehumanizing their abuser and that's not cool, because it feels to them like the other person is taking their abuser's side and telling them to get fucked. Even if this not what's happening, the survivor's brain is currently operating on fight/flight/fawn/freeze mode, and a brain operating fight/flight/freeze/fawn mode is keyed to making snap decisions to try and remove you from the danger as soon as possible, which means categorizing everything into black and white. This person couldn't care less about the history of eugenics right now; literally all they care about is being safe.

"Okay, so if the Ontologically Evil Person doesn't exist, how the hell do you explain those fuckers over there?" some of you are probably asking.

Here's the deal. Literally every human being alive can and will do terrible things if they're sufficiently scared and desperate. They're in no position to appreciate that nearly all asshole behavior can be explained by a lack of critical social and self-management skills, or by a lack of access to self-improvement (including being too traumatized to trust means of self-improvement).

People who are scared, insecure, and under high levels of stress will often cling to anything that makes them feel better, because they want to feel safe and secure and not in psychological and/or physical agony. (Stress does an absolute number on your body, too.)

Being reliant on a shitty behavior, belief system, or product for some measure of feeling secure and safe is how you get people saying things like "If I didn't act mean, everyone would just walk all over me!" or "I was really depressed before I found this, so if I gave it up I'm going to get depressed again, and I might hurt myself." (And there might be some truth to this one! This might indeed happen if they give it up cold turkey, and without finding an alternative!) It's how you get people conducting """scientific""" studies to """prove""" that their bigotry is totally justified and not at all irrational. ("Well of course these people are genetically inferior, they wouldn't be poor and disease-ridden if they weren't... what do you mean, systemic inequality and uneven healthcare access? No that's obviously fake and made up by More Bad People.")

People also act in unhealthy ways to deal with personal insecurities implanted by parents or society. You have people out there whose parents drummed it into their heads that second place was for worthless losers, or that no one would love them if they didn't look or act a certain way. You have people who absorbed the idea that acknowledging the basic humanity of shitty people means that they have to forgive them and personally help them get better and just suffer through the abuse in the meantime.

This is how people choose to die on the hill of Being A Terrible Person. They weren't ontologically evil. They were scared, and they thought they saw a fortress on the top of that hill that would keep them (and perhaps also their loved ones) safe.

[liminalgardens]

The two most popular accounts of persistence are perdurance theory (perdurantism) and endurance theory (endurantism). Perdurantists believe that ordinary things like animals, boats and planets have temporal parts (things persist by ‘perduring’). Endurantists believe that ordinary things do not have temporal parts; instead, things are wholly present whenever they exist (things persist by ‘enduring’). This looks like a straightforward ontological disagreement, a dispute about what exists. Perdurantists think that objects have both spatial and temporal parts, while endurantists think that they only have spatial parts.

[anitatad]

Embracing Tolerance: A Journey of Acceptance

Image by Gerd Altmann from Pixabay Tolerance is a funny old word, one you rarely encounter, which is strange when you consider that we all practice it every day. When you practice tolerance, you accept another’s ideas and beliefs. If you respect someone’s opinions — even if you disagree or find them nonsensical — you display tolerance. The noun tolerance, which stems from the Latin for…