The Axial Model

Philosophy of Living: The Axial Model Three Fundamental Questions of Living 1.Is reliable knowledge of our nature possible? 2.What is "the human predicament"? 3.Can human life be lived with integrity AND fulfillment? The Axial Model: We are in this world, but not entirely of this world. We are moving towards a state of wisdom of another world. From appearance to Reality. The Enlightment - Challenged Axial Our reason is how we find our path to enlightenment. 18th Century(The Enlightenment) - Great Human Concern is Death 19th Centruy (Understanding the Pattern of History) - Great Human Concern is Guilt 20th Century - Great Human Concern is Meaning - Can Philosophy Help? 21st Century - Is technology the solution to every problem? Academic Philosophy - Concerned Primarily with Technical Problems. Socrates - Philosophy Is Learning How to Die John Dewey - Philosophy only matters if it involves the pressing problems of human beings. There is a different between providing information and exploring issues. Course mainly focused on European Philosophers. Philosophy Reflects it's Time In Thought Considering 4 Basic Things from a Historical and Thematic Standpoint 1. Axial Understanding of Human Life. 2. Conquer Superstition through Reason. 3. Meaning vs. Meaningless 4. Is asking about meaning, necessary? 5. What is the nature and status of reason/