In today’s episode, we delve into the life, philosophy, and enduring influence of one my favourite modern philosophers - Alan Watts. He was an incredible figure who spoke with eloquence and clarity, integrating Eastern and Western thought in a way that had never been done before.

Trained as an Episcopal priest, he left the church and went on to become a spiritual luminary in California in the height of the 60s counter culture movement. If you’re interested in Eastern philosophy, this man is the most accessible entry point to the principles of Buddhism, Taoism, and Hinduism.

I’ve also, for some reason, delivered this in a far huskier tone than usual. It was late when I recorded and I was a bit tired. I’m hoping this doesn’t come across too badly in the episode.

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.

Links and Resources

Books

* The Way of Zen - https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/514210.The_Way_of_Zen

* The Wisdom of Insecurity - https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/551520.The_Wisdom_of_Insecurity

* The Book: On the taboo against knowing who you are - https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/60551.The_Book

Videos

* The Discipline of Zen - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5scxrMeYNc0

* Things and Thinks - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u3-HjYcLcnE

* You Can’t Do It - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DR5n2H6Jehg

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favourite podcast platform. Your feedback helps us grow and improve our content.

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

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

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

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favourite podcast platform. Your feedback helps us grow and improve our podcast.

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