This Strange Eventful History: A Philosophy of Meaning

Sound Bite

Meaning may appear elusive in our present divided world but a sense of meaning is essential for peace of mind. This book sets out to survey our options concisely, drawing on philosophy, religion, science and art. Each chapter draws on the words of two (or more) prominent inter-related thinkers to help us form an opinion, often provocatively, with no holds barred! It steers a path towards an attitude of Cosmic Compassionate Plurality.

About the Book

"There is no better way to understand the most important questions that humans have about their existence and spirituality than to know the thoughts of some of mankind’s greatest minds. Dr. Bradley has done this to perfection." - David Comings.

All of us must seek at a personal and a general level for a philosophy of meaning in life, “this strange eventful history,” to borrow a descriptive phrase for our existence from Shakespeare. A sense of meaning is essential for peace of mind, yet meaning may appear elusive in our present-day divided world.

This book sets out to survey our options concisely, drawing on philosophy, religion, science and art, across the gamut from classical philosophers to atheists, mystics, sensualists, agnostics, primatologists, neuroscientists, Unifaith believers, Interfaith, Multifaith and lastly Transfaith, to seek a religious attitude freed from myth and magic. A new concept of intelligent design is examined, linked with Panspermia, independent of the concept of anthropomorphic creation.

Each chapter draws on the opinions of two (or more) prominent inter-related thinkers, including Sartre, Foucault, and Frankl, Freud and Richard Dawkins, Carl Jung and Mircea Eliade, the Greeks and the Buddha, Van Gogh and Gauguin, and many others, to help us form an opinion, often provocatively, with no holds barred! The stimulating inter-relationship between these stars steers us on a path towards a viewpoint of Cosmic Compassionate Plurality.

The Existentialist philosophers cautioned that life is essentially meaningless — but they allowed that we may choose ourselves. Certainly, our choices are many and various in this current era. Often, however, we bemoan the lack of time to read and research those possibilities. This book sets out to provide the needed background material.

Introduction

In This Strange Eventful History: A Philosophy of Meaning, Paul Bradley examines the perennial question that has fascinated thinkers for centuries: What gives life meaning?

Drawing upon philosophical traditions, literary works, and historical narratives, the author uncovers how humanity has grappled with the search for purpose. Each chapter draws on the opinions of two (or more) prominent inter-related thinkers, including Sartre, Foucault, and Frankl, Freud and Richard Dawkins, Carl Jung and Mircea Eliade, the Greeks and the Buddha, Van Gogh and Gauguin, and many others, to help us form an opinion, often provocatively, with no holds barred!

From the teachings of ancient sages to modern existential thought, Bradley presents an overview of ideas that have shaped human understanding. This is a profound journey to explore the essence of human existence, the quest for meaning, and the intricate interplay of history, philosophy, and individual experience. This thought-provoking book offers readers a deep and nuanced perspective on life's ultimate questions, blending intellectual rigor with accessible prose to engage both scholars and general readers alike.

The Philosophy of Meaning:

History as a Canvas for Meaning: The book delves into the role of history in shaping individual and collective identities. Bradley argues that history is not just a sequence of events but a canvas on which humanity projects its aspirations, fears, and triumphs. He weaves together historical anecdotes and philosophical insights to demonstrate how the past informs our present and influences our vision of the future.

The Interplay of Science, Art, and Philosophy: Bradley highlights the interplay between disciplines, illustrating how art, science, and philosophy converge to create a holistic understanding of the human experience. He explores how these fields contribute to the search for meaning, offering readers a multidimensional approach to understanding life's complexities.

A Call to Embrace the Journey: This Strange Eventful History challenges readers to embrace life as a journey filled with questions, contradictions, and possibilities. Bradley emphasizes that the search for meaning is not about finding definitive answers but about engaging with the process of discovery. By doing so, individuals can cultivate a deeper connection to themselves and the world around them.

A Thoughtful Guide for Seekers: Whether you are a student of philosophy, a lover of history, or someone searching for deeper understanding, Bradley's book serves as a thoughtful guide. It offers intellectual nourishment and inspiration for those seeking to make sense of the strange and eventful story of human existence.