What we’re about
Join us for reading and thoughtful discussions on topics such as Understanding Yourself and the world around you, Social and Behavioural Psychology, Meaning Of Life (or lack of it), Mindful Living, etc.
The book club is for everyone who is interested in reading and learning about philosophy and psychology (non academic) on the one hand and socialising with the like minded people to discuss the topics in a friendly environment on the other.
The venue
We will be reading a new book every month and meeting to discuss at (location tbd)
Upcoming events (1)
See all- Schopenhauer CureBacchus Bar in Birmingham (http://goo.gl/maps/nUgLd), Birmingham
This month we will be reading:
Schopenhauer cure
by Irvin D. YalomNote
I found the audiobook very well narrated (Neil Hellegers), if you can get hold of it you would definitely enjoy it much more.
I have got ebook as well, for the quotes mainly, this book is full of great quotes!About book
The Schopenhauer Cure is a novel by Irvin D. Yalom, blending fiction with philosophical exploration.
It is a thought-provoking exploration of life, death, and the human condition. It challenges readers to reflect on their own lives, the role of philosophy, and the power of relationships in finding meaning and redemption. Yalom's blend of fiction and philosophy makes it both an engaging story and a profound meditation on existence.### Plot Overview
The story revolves around Julius Hertzfeld, a seasoned psychotherapist who discovers he has a terminal illness. Facing his mortality, Julius reflects on his life and career, particularly his failure to help one of his former patients, Philip Slate, a man obsessed with the philosophy of Arthur Schopenhauer.
Julius reconnects with Philip, who has since become a philosopher and a practitioner of Schopenhauer's ideas. Julius invites Philip to join his therapy group, hoping to understand him better and perhaps help him integrate into human relationships.### Themes
Existentialism:
- The novel explores themes of death, meaning, and isolation, central to existential philosophy. Julius's illness forces him and the group to confront their own mortality and the purpose of their lives.
Schopenhauer's Philosophy:
- Philip's adherence to Schopenhauer's pessimistic worldview—emphasizing the inevitability of suffering and the futility of desire—serves as a counterpoint to the therapeutic process. The group debates whether Schopenhauer's ideas offer liberation or despair.
Group Therapy Dynamics:
- The novel delves into the complexities of group therapy, showing how individuals confront their fears, insecurities, and relationships in a shared space.
Redemption and Connection:
- Julius seeks redemption for his perceived failure with Philip, while Philip struggles to move beyond his intellectual isolation and connect with others.
### Philosophical Insights
Yalom weaves Schopenhauer's ideas into the narrative, exploring questions like:
- How do we find meaning in a world filled with suffering?
- Can philosophy heal the soul, or is human connection the true remedy?
- How do we confront the inevitability of death?
