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Bryan W Van Norden
  • Vassar College 310 / 124 Raymond Ave / Poughkeepsie, NY  12604-0310 (USA)
  • 845-437-5538

Bryan W Van Norden

Vassar College, Philosophy, Faculty Member
In my comments today, I will argue for three points: (1) Studying philosophy-whether majoring in it or just taking one or more philosophy courses-is a legitimate career choice, even from a narrowly vocational perspective. (2) Studying... more
In my comments today, I will argue for three points: (1) Studying philosophy-whether majoring in it or just taking one or more philosophy courses-is a legitimate career choice, even from a narrowly vocational perspective. (2) Studying philosophy is also valuable to every citizen of a democracy, and to the maintenance of democracy itself. (3) Philosophy has made immense contributions to our civilization, especially to the development of science. Moreover, by its nature it is impossible for philosophy to ever become obsolete.
This essay discusses the vice of bitterness, drawing insights from the notion of "spiritual apathy" in Thomas Aquinas and the problematic attitude of "resentment" as discussed by Confucians.
Research Interests: