Fred Bradford
Bio
Philosophy, for me, is not just an intellectual pursuit but a way to continuously grow, question, and connect with others on a deeper level. By reflecting on ideas we challenge how we see the world and our place in it.
Stories (173)
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What I Learned from The Road by Cormac McCarthy
Cormac McCarthy’s The Road is a harrowing tale set in a post-apocalyptic wasteland, where a father and son traverse a bleak and barren landscape, searching for safety, sustenance, and meaning amidst unimaginable despair. At its core, it is not merely a story of survival, but a profound meditation on love, resilience, and the enduring spark of humanity. Reading this novel left an indelible mark on me, teaching lessons that resonate far beyond its grim setting.
By Fred Bradfordabout a year ago in BookClub
5 Life Lessons from Laozi
Laozi (also spelled Lao Tzu), the legendary Chinese philosopher and founder of Taoism, is best known as the author of the Tao Te Ching, a profound and poetic text that explores the nature of existence, harmony, and the path to wisdom. Though Laozi lived over 2,500 years ago, his teachings remain remarkably relevant today. Here are five timeless life lessons we can learn from Laozi and how they can guide us in navigating the complexities of modern life.
By Fred Bradfordabout a year ago in Art
5 Life Lessons from Zeno of Citium
Zeno of Citium, the founder of Stoicism, remains one of history's most profound thinkers. Born in Cyprus around 334 BCE, Zeno developed a philosophy that prioritized resilience, virtue, and inner peace. His teachings, often shared through anecdotes and passed down by his followers, resonate as strongly today as they did in ancient Greece. Here are five life lessons we can learn from Zeno’s wisdom, which continue to guide us in navigating life’s challenges.
By Fred Bradfordabout a year ago in Art
What I Learned from A Theory of Justice by John Rawls
John Rawls’ A Theory of Justice, first published in 1971, remains one of the most influential works in contemporary political philosophy. In it, Rawls sets out to reconcile the principles of liberty and equality, proposing a model of justice that has shaped debates about fairness, societal organization, and the role of government. As I reflect on the lessons imparted by this book, I realize just how deeply Rawls' ideas resonate with questions about justice that are as relevant today as they were when the book was first published.
By Fred Bradfordabout a year ago in BookClub
What We Can Learn from Napoleon Bonaparte
Few historical figures have had as much impact on the modern world as Napoleon Bonaparte. Revered and reviled in equal measure, Napoleon’s life offers a fascinating study in ambition, leadership, innovation, and the human capacity for both triumph and error. Born in Corsica in 1769, he rose to become Emperor of the French and reshaped Europe through his military campaigns, governance, and reforms. Although his reign ended in exile and defeat, the lessons from his life remain as relevant today as they were during his time. Here are some key takeaways from Napoleon's extraordinary journey.
By Fred Bradfordabout a year ago in History
5 Life Lessons from Diogenes of Sinope
Diogenes of Sinope, one of the most colorful and provocative figures in the history of philosophy, was a central figure in the Cynic school. Living in ancient Greece, he defied societal norms and challenged the values of wealth, power, and materialism. Often referred to as "Diogenes the Cynic," his life and teachings offer profound lessons that resonate even today. Here are five life lessons we can learn from the legendary philosopher:
By Fred Bradfordabout a year ago in Art
What I Learned from The Social Contract by Jean-Jacques Rousseau
Few books have left as profound an impression on my understanding of human society as The Social Contract by Jean-Jacques Rousseau. Published in 1762, it remains one of the most significant works of political philosophy, influencing revolutions, shaping democracies, and sparking debates that continue to this day. Rousseau’s central idea—that legitimate political authority arises not from divine right or brute force but from a social contract among citizens—has fundamentally reshaped how we think about governance and human relationships.
By Fred Bradfordabout a year ago in BookClub
5 Life Lessons from Voltaire
François-Marie Arouet, better known by his pen name Voltaire, was an 18th-century French philosopher, writer, and historian who is celebrated for his sharp wit, biting satire, and relentless defense of civil liberties. His works, filled with wisdom and incisive social critique, remain relevant today, offering timeless lessons for navigating life’s challenges. Here are five key life lessons we can learn from Voltaire:
By Fred Bradfordabout a year ago in Art
What I Learned from Atomic Habits by James Clear
James Clear’s Atomic Habits is more than just a guide to forming good habits and breaking bad ones—it’s a blueprint for personal transformation. The book’s brilliance lies in its simplicity and practicality, offering readers actionable steps grounded in behavioral science to improve their lives incrementally. Here are the key lessons I took away from this transformative read:
By Fred Bradfordabout a year ago in BookClub
5 Life Lessons from Jean-Paul Sartre
Jean-Paul Sartre, one of the most influential existentialist philosophers of the 20th century, left behind a body of work that continues to challenge and inspire us. His writings on freedom, responsibility, and the meaning of life resonate deeply in a world where individuals often grapple with questions about purpose and authenticity. By exploring Sartre’s philosophy, we can uncover profound life lessons that remain relevant today.
By Fred Bradfordabout a year ago in Art
What I Learned from Critique of Pure Reason by Immanuel Kant
Immanuel Kant’s Critique of Pure Reason is often considered one of the most challenging yet profoundly enlightening works in the history of philosophy. Published in 1781, this monumental text seeks to answer some of the most fundamental questions about human knowledge: What can we know? How do we know it? And what are the limits of our understanding? Having delved into this masterpiece, I find myself both humbled and inspired by Kant’s intellectual depth. Here, I’d like to share some of the key lessons I have gleaned from this extraordinary work.
By Fred Bradfordabout a year ago in BookClub
5 Life Lessons from Martin Luther King Jr.
Martin Luther King Jr. is often remembered as a towering figure in the struggle for civil rights, a gifted orator, and a man of unyielding moral conviction. His words and actions continue to inspire people worldwide to strive for justice, equality, and peace. While King’s contributions to the civil rights movement are well-documented, his life and philosophy offer timeless lessons that extend beyond social justice. Here are five profound life lessons we can learn from Martin Luther King Jr.
By Fred Bradfordabout a year ago in Art
