I would like to begin this article by introducing you to my idea -- or rather the ideas of some of the greatest minds to have ever perused the virtuous avenues of thought. I have begun reading a book entitled: "Man and Spirit: the Speculative Philosophers." This is a book with fifteen sections devoted to philosophy that is centered around the metaphysical concept of the soul. The soul has long been debated and thought-over throughout the history of man; yet, no person is quite sure what is actually held within this vital form. In my pursuit of learning, I have decided to venture forth with these great minds: Augustine of Hippo, Nietzsche, Pascal, the Buddha, and many more. I am starting a series of articles devoted to this pursuit and more called: Philosophy Cornered!

As I move through this book, I will write about what I find intellectually intriguing with the goal of expounding upon the subject in such a way as to perk up: interest, thought and lively debate. This book does not express the views of any religion -- and it is ultimately unbiased -- just as I will be. Instead, it offers the rationale behind the outstanding philosophy that has shaped the pursuit of the soul and helped bring humanity closer to discovering what the answer is to this pivotal question. Augustine will provide the basis of the book; I have no doubt that the rest of the sections will reveal the cogent-ization of the subject. Philosophy and its subjects are like any other study and subject: one stellar, long conversation.

I will begin in the next article with an exploration of Augustine of Hippo's "On the Immortality of the Soul." Please understand that this is not about de-bunking religion or thought! It is instead meant to explore the challenging jungles of stellar thought, cutting away the brush into the oasis of understanding. I have read a fair deal of Plato's work, and have studied various religions (both Abrahamic and Eastern, as well as a few New Religious Movements), and though I am no certified expert, I do have a good supply of knowledge and intellect for this journey. I operate by viewing much of the world as semiotics -- much like Geertz and his symbolic definition of religion. I think that ultimately philosophy strives to take the truth that is untouchable and make it touchable. This truth can only be handled by the mind, and as such, the only way for it to be 'translated' for humans to understand is through metaphors and symbols. They provide the stimulation for the senses as well as the right side of the brain -- while the left side is fascinated by the thought, logic and reasoning that wove the web of such outstanding concepts.

If you have any interest in these ideas, then please tune in for more! This promises to be a wondrous and brief weekly corner of invaluable thoughts (though, regrettably, there is no section on Plato!)