Ancient Secrets to Modern Happiness | Tamar Gendler

Habit Formation

Tamar Gendler explores the ancient philosophers' strategies for developing habits that align with virtues. She explains how habits can be cultivated through consistent practice, using Aristotle's idea that virtues like bravery and generosity can become second nature through repetition. Gendler emphasizes the importance of having heuristics ready to hand, such as habituate, situate, attach, and detach, to help us thrive in various situations 1.

We are the kinds of beings who are helped by heuristics, habituate, situate, attach, detach.

--- Tamar Gendler

This approach is akin to the modern concept of "fake it till you make it," where acting as if you possess a virtue can eventually lead to embodying it 2.

   

Situational Influence

Situations play a crucial role in shaping and reinforcing our habits. Gendler illustrates this by referencing "The Odyssey," where Odysseus uses strategic situating to resist temptations, such as tying himself to the mast to avoid the sirens' call. This tactic, known as situate, involves placing oneself in environments that support desired habits and avoiding those that trigger unwanted behaviors 3.

The notion of situate just to recap is first, the recognition that habits are context specific and that you can use the situation to reinforce a habit.

--- Tamar Gendler

By understanding the context-specific nature of habits, we can better navigate different environments and ensure our habits are effective 4.

   

Subconscious Impact

Gendler delves into the subconscious influences on habit development, drawing parallels between ancient practices and modern understandings. She highlights how rhythmic training and sensitivity to harmony in Plato's Republic serve as subconscious methods to instill virtues in future leaders. These practices operate below the level of conscious awareness, shaping instincts and sensitivities that align with societal values 5.

Children learn what they live.

--- Tamar Gendler

This approach underscores the importance of subconscious influences in habit formation, suggesting that non-rational training can significantly impact behavior and decision-making.