Death and the Disinterested Spectator: An Inquiry into the Nature of Philosophy

Ann Hartle

SUNY Press, Jan 1, 1986 - Philosophy - 262 pages

Death and the Disinterested Spectator examines the nature of philosophy in light of philosophy's claim to be a preparation for death. Does philosophy have any real power, or is it merely idle talk? The background against which this question is explored is a re-interpretation of Plato's Phaedo, Augustine's Confessions, and Descartes' Discourse on Method.

Contents

• Socrates Penelope and the Bee: 11
• Comedy Tragedy Philosophy: 12
• Actor or Spectator: 26
• Hubris and Irony: 36
• Truth and Deception: 44
• B Phaedo: 78
• C Plato: 81
• From Philosophical Courage to Christian Hope: 83
• St Augustine The Look of Pity: 85
• Laughter Tears Trembling and Wonder: 87
• Actor or Spectator: 101
• Pride and Humility: 114
• Truth and SelfDeception: 122
• From Christian Hope to Modern Certitude: 135
• Descartes Occupation and Preoccupation: 137
• Laughter Tears Trembling and Wonder: 144
• Actor or Spectator: 153
• Pride and Humility: 173
• Truth and Certitude: 179
• Transition and Return: 189
• Conclusion Death and the Disinterested Spectator: 191
• Wonder and Death: 194
• The Strange and the Familiar: 197
• The Fable of Certitude: 201
• From Disinterested Spectator to Compassionate Actor: 203
• Cartesian Presumption Socratic Victory: 208
• Idle Talk and Endless Toil: 212
• Weaving the Shroud: 217
• Notes: 221
• Works Consulted: 253
• Index: 259

About the author

Ann Hartle is Associate Professor of Philosophy at Emory University.

Bibliographic information

• Title: Death and the Disinterested Spectator: An Inquiry into the Nature of Philosophy; G - Reference,Information and Interdisciplinary Subjects Series
• Author: Ann Hartle
• Edition: illustrated
• Publisher: SUNY Press, 1986
• ISBN: 0887062857, 9780887062858
• Length: 262 pages
• Subjects: Philosophy / General; Philosophy / Methodology