Thanks for your email.
The depth and breadth of our conditioning is breathtaking.
As a point of departure, it is important not to "overlook the obvious," which, in the context of Welsh's article, is that "conditions" are inescapable.
A simple, but effective, reminder is to recall that ambient temperature ranges from absolute zero (about 450 degrees Fahrenheit below zero) to an indeterminate upper limit which scientists currently think has no "ceiling."
Yet human beings can only survive within a limited band on the temperature spectrum, a band that ranges -- approximately -- from 100 degrees below zero, to approximately 150 degrees Fahrenheit.
What a minuscule sliver!
Demonstrably, there are a nearly infinite number of "degree" "markers" along the ambient heat spectrum so that, in theory, we have plenty of room to rebel "against" the survivable band of temperature which comprises humankind's "livable condition."
But to what end?
We either align with the infinitesimally narrow spectrum of survivable temperature, or we die.
That is our condition.
I discuss the survivable temperature spectrum as a bare bones "rhetorical" starting point.
However, if one values life -- and, at least to some extent, such valuation seems to be a choice -- my rhetorical starting point illustrates, in broad outline, the inevitable need to align with very limited - and limiting - conditions.
Although there are many "conceptualizations" and "behaviorable approaches" to our "engagement of conditions," Buddhism's Four Noble Truths and the Noble Eightfold Path express the need for alignment elegantly and insightfully - particularly the first two steps.
1. Right Understanding
To understand the Law of Cause and Effect and the Four Noble Truths.
2. Right Attitude
Not harbouring thoughts of greed and anger.
3. Right Speech
Avoid lying, gossip, harsh speech and tale-telling.
4. Right Action
Not to destroy any life, not to steal or commit adultery.
5. Right Livelihood
Avoiding occupations that bring harm to oneself and others.
6. Right Effort
Earnestly doing one's best in the right direction.
7. Right Mindfulness
Always being aware and attentive.
8. Right Concentration
To making the mind steady and calm in order to realise the true nature of things.
לחיים
L'chaim
Alan
Dear Chuck,
De Botton does not mention the word Buddhism but it is clear to me that he takes The Buddha's First Noble Truth as his point of departure: "Life is suffering - dukkha."
The word is commonly explained as a derivation from Aryan terminology for an axle hole, referring to an axle hole which is not in the center and leads to a bumpy, uncomfortable ride. According to Winthrop Sargeant,
De Botton does not mention the word Buddhism but it is clear to me that he takes The Buddha's First Noble Truth as his point of departure: "Life is suffering - dukkha."
The word is commonly explained as a derivation from Aryan terminology for an axle hole, referring to an axle hole which is not in the center and leads to a bumpy, uncomfortable ride. According to Winthrop Sargeant,
"The True Hard Work Of Love And Relationships" - "Why You Will Marry The Wrong Person"
Although there is no need to reply, your response would be welcome.
Unusually, I have no preliminary sense what your "reaction" will be.
Rightly or wrongly, I envision a considerable amount of "vertiginous" thinking.
And then?
Pax tecum
Alan
P.S. Reflecting on the etymology of dukkha, the commonplace use of sex to attempt resolution of "the bumpy ride" comes into new focus - from an ill-fitting axle hole to "the perfect fit!"
On Thu, Aug 9, 2018 at 11:47 PM LJB wrote:
This is interesting to me thank you id3.
http://www.ianwelsh.net/how-we-are-conditioned-to-be- slaves/
Sent from my iPad
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