Abstract:
The distinction between theory and practice, as well as their specific role, function, and relevance within philosophy is at the core of most metaphilosophical discussions of philosophy as a way of life (PWL). At the same time, Hadot’s emphasis on the practical dimension of ancient philosophy and its alleged privilege of practice over theory is one of the most polemic and controversial aspects of his account of PWL. In this paper I will discuss three alternative ways of interpreting Hadot’s characterization of PWL and the roles and functions of theory and practice in his account: John Cooper’s, Miranda Vilchi’s and Matthew Sharpe’s. After critically evaluating each one of these readings, I will present my own view on the matter and conclude with some reflections on the relevance (or irrelevance) of maintaining the opposition between theory and practice in our account of PWL.
Keywords:
philosophy as a way of life, theory-practice, Pierre Hadot, John Cooper, Miranda Vilchis, Matthew Sharpe
How to cite:
Faustino, Marta. “Do We Need to Choose Between Theory and Practice? On the Place of Logos and Praxis in Philosophy as a Way of Life. ” Eidos. A Journal for Philosophy of Culture 8, no. 4 (2024): 68-94. https://doi.org/10.14394/eidos.jpc.2024.0024.
Author:
Marta Faustino
IFILNOVA (Nova Institute of Philosophy), NOVA University of Lisbon
Avenida de Berna 26C, 1069-061 Lisboa, Portugal
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5492-8539
martafaustino@fcsh.unl.pt
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