What Would Socrates Do?

Personal Stories

Personal stories often illuminate philosophical concepts in our daily lives. Tamar Gendler shares how ancient thinkers grappled with life's unpredictability, much like we do today. She discusses the concept of "obliger rebellion," where one finds pleasure in not doing what they know is right, such as returning shoes by a deadline 1. Shankar Vedantam adds that despite our best efforts, life doesn't always go as planned, echoing the struggles of the ancients 2.

All of us have multiple sides of ourselves that are at war with each other.

--- Tamar Gendler

These stories reflect the timeless nature of human conflict and decision-making.

   

Philosophical Lessons

Philosophical lessons from ancient Greece continue to offer insights into personal growth and psychological understanding. Tamar Gendler explains Plato's metaphor of the soul as a charioteer with two horses, representing reason, spirit, and appetite 3. Aligning these parts leads to human flourishing, as Plato believed that harmony between our inner selves is crucial 4.

We are best off when what it is that we want to do and what it is that we're inclined to do coincide.

--- Tamar Gendler

This alignment helps us navigate life's challenges more naturally, without internal conflict.