Introduction: Why Am I Here?

Why Am I Here?

 My first encounter with Philosophy as a word was most likely in 3rd grade when my teacher read to us 'Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone' in it's entirety.  We were also informed that this title was unique to the American publications as the original title was 'Harry Potter and the Philosopher's stone.'  Having been partially raised in England, I could understand why they would choose this word since they actually prioritize education over there which doesn't seem to be the case in the states where "sorcery" is a better word for selling fantasy novels, at least.

  It's possible I saw the film Bill & Ted's excellent adventure long before this however I had no idea who Socrates was until much later.   

Entering Middle school, I happened to be cast as Schroeder in a musical about Charlie Brown which featured a song called "My New Philosophy" which made light of the entire field for the most part but re-introduced me to the term in a sing-song silly kind of way that also had a profound impact on my own personal philosophy on musical theater which persists to this very day.  

 

 

While still in Middle School, I happened to see the film Donnie Darko which referenced a fictional book called "The Philosophy of Time Travel."

Later on in High School, we were required to read 'Sophie's World' in English class as Freshmen.  This was the first time actually considering the History of Philosophy as literature.    

 

 

 My interest in Philosophy deepened when I received a book on the influence of Philosophy on the films of Woody Allen.  Being a fan of his work, I was interested in the potential for Philosophy to enrich the art of cinema and beyond. 

 

 Another film that expanded my awareness of Philosophy around this time was  Waking Life.  

Eventually I was recommended Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance by a friend which really set the wheels in motion for my becoming a Philosophy major once I declared my major. 

 

 Another major influence for my choosing Philosophy was the work of Caetano Veloso who was also a Philosophy major.  I had become familiar with his music after a trip to Brazil in my teens. 

 

So, what is Philosophy?  Is it a series of mysterious books delivered by strangers or a magical substance that leads one to the elixir of life?  It seems to be a combination of the two since Philosophy has progressed civilizations in and out of existence for thousands of years.  The aim of this blog is to illuminate "Progress" as it relates to the practice of Philosophy as a whole while also explaining my own personal idea of "Progress Philosophy" in my own life.