Philosophy Seminar: Paths in the Woods

This month we bring you a seminar from the host of Prague's famous Cafe Philo, Albert Hoffman, entitled “Paths in the Wood”. In this seminar, we'll be exploring the later writings of Martin Heidegger where he explores our relationship to time, connection to place, and the very question of what it means to exist.

The relationship between Heidegger and the Black Forest in south-western Germany, the landscape in which he produced many of his most famous works, was one of intense emotional and intellectual intimacy. From the small, three-room cabin–which he affectionately called "die Hütte”-- the forest becomes a strong metaphor for a way of thinking that moves more slowly and attentively than the technological mindset of modernity.

Heidegger’s later philosophy shifts away from the technical language of Being and Time toward a more meditative style of thinking. What does it mean to “dwell”? Why does Heidegger so often write about forests, paths, clearings, and huts? And what might these metaphors reveal about his critique of modern technological society?

Whether you are new to Heidegger or already familiar with his work, join us for a discussion of how philosophy can help us reconsider our relationship to nature, place, and the way we inhabit the world.

***
We’ll have tea and light snacks, but please feel free to bring any drink or snack you’d like to share!

This event will be hosted in an apartment with a well-trained dog who will be happy to meet you. If anyone has concerns about dogs, let me know so I can be mindful about keeping her from bothering you.

The buzzer is Everett and Mainous—we’re on the 5th floor, apartment 16.