The book delves into the concept that reality, existing beyond human perspectives, is fundamentally indescribable and remains a 'mystery.' David Cooper critiques alternative views that fail to align with the human experience, advocating for a philosophical understanding that embraces mystery as essential. By doing so, he emphasizes how this appreciation shapes our beliefs and actions, restoring a vital element to philosophical discourse.
Exploring the deep connection between gardens and humanity, this book offers intriguing perspectives on the role of gardens in our lives. It delves into their cultural, emotional, and psychological significance, revealing how they shape our experiences and foster a sense of belonging. Through various insights, the narrative highlights the transformative power of gardens, making it a compelling read for nature lovers and those interested in the human experience.
David E. Cooper elucidates Nietzsche's educational views in detail, in a form that will be of value to educationalists as well as philosophers. In this title, first published in 1983, he shows how these views relate to the rest of Nietzsche's work, and to modern European and Anglo-Saxon philosophical concerns.For Nietzsche, the purpose of true education was to produce creative individuals who take responsibility for their lives, beliefs and values. His ideal was human authenticity. David E. Cooper sets Nietzsche's critique against the background of nineteenth-century German culture, yet is concerned at the same time to emphasize its bearing upon recent educational thought and policy.
The book explores the challenge of living with a pessimistic and misanthropic worldview, questioning how individuals can find meaning and happiness in a seemingly unchangeable human condition. Cooper advocates for a quietist approach, suggesting that true wellbeing can be achieved by seeking solace in nature, away from the complexities and disappointments of everyday life. This perspective encourages readers to reconsider their relationship with the world and find peace in the natural environment.