Lecture Notes on Augustine and His Philosophy

Background

• Augustine: Christian philosopher
  • Lived in the 4th and 5th century AD
  • Based in Hippo, North Africa
  • Served as a bishop for 35 years
  • Highly respected, even among invaders (Vandals spared his cathedral and library)

Importance to Modern Context

• Critiqued Roman values and outlook, relevant to modern Western societies like the United States.

Roman Beliefs

1. Earthly Happiness

   • Optimism and faith in technology
   • Pride, ambition, and confidence in shaping the future
   • Focus on self-help and self-improvement
   • Belief in human perfectibility

2. Just Social Order

   • Meritocracy: belief in justice (justitia)
   • Wealth and fame seen as reflections of virtue

Augustine's Critique

• The City of God: Augustine's main work dissecting Roman beliefs
  • Criticized the idea of perfectibility of human life and just societies
• Introduced the concept of Original Sin
  • All humans are inherently flawed
  • Presence of "libido dominandi" (desire to dominate)

Human Nature

• Fragility of reasoning and understanding
• Pervasive egoism and pride
• Inescapable lust and misunderstandings
• Critique of earthly happiness and self-achieved bliss

Augustinian Pessimism

• Life's imperfections are part of being human
• Acknowledging our inherent flaws can be relieving
• Emphasis on human condition rather than specific failures

Justice and Power

• Criticism of Roman meritocracy
  • Skepticism towards the idea that power equates to virtue
• City of God vs. City of Men
  • City of God: ideal future, heavenly justice
  • City of Men: flawed, where money and virtue are misaligned

Philosophical Implications

• Encourages skepticism towards power and generosity towards failure
• Minimizes moralism and snobbery
• Insights into political philosophy and human psychology
• Critique of believing in perfect social structures and judging based on success

Conclusion

• Augustine's philosophy offers universal lessons on humility, skepticism, and human nature
• Challenges traditional measures of success and virtue in society