Leisure: The Foundation of Culture

Author: (American) (German) Piper
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2005-04-01
Features: The more I reread Piper's book, the more I realize it is a wise book full of profound insights. With concise language, he points out the life principles we have long overlooked: how to pursue and utilize leisure, and at the same time, how to cultivate a simple philosophical thinking habit. He tells us how to experience real moments in life through leisure in daily life. We don't have to be philosophers; as long as we master leisure, we can sense the truth of life: continuously experience the feeling of wonder, then embrace hope, keep exploring forward, and directly reach the ultimate essence of philosophy—insight and wisdom. In the book "Leisure: The Basis of Culture," Piper cites numerous references—from Plato and Aristotle of the Greek era to Thomas Aquinas of the Middle Ages. In his view, leisure is a gift highly cherished by the ancients and the foundation and root of culture. Leisure is a state of tranquility; leisure is the ability to contemplate; leisure is also a "gift" bestowed upon humanity by God. Of course, the third point is raised based on the author's identity as a Catholic theologian. The more I reread Piper's book, the more I realize it is a wise book full of profound insights. With concise language, he points out the life principles we have long overlooked: how to pursue and utilize leisure, and at the same time, how to cultivate a simple philosophical thinking habit. He tells us how to experience real moments in life through leisure in daily life. We don't have to be philosophers; as long as we master leisure, we can sense the truth of life: continuously experience the feeling of wonder, then embrace hope, keep exploring forward, and directly reach the ultimate essence of philosophy—insight and wisdom. In the book "Leisure: The Basis of Culture," Piper cites numerous references—from Plato and Aristotle of the Greek era to Thomas Aquinas of the Middle Ages. In his view, leisure is a gift highly cherished by the ancients and the foundation and root of culture. Leisure is a state of tranquility; leisure is the ability to contemplate; leisure is also a "gift" bestowed upon humanity by God. Of course, the third point is raised based on the author's identity as a Catholic theologian.