Dustin Peone Libros

Dustin Peone argues that memory is the foundation of philosophical thought. This may seem strange to the contemporary reader, but it is something that philosophers themselves have known since before Socrates. Peone advocates a doctrine of “memory as philosophy” that ties philosophical recollection back to the wisdom of the Muses, daughters of Memory, who sing of “what was, is, and shall be.” Part One draws on the work of philosophers from Cicero to Vico to Bergson to articulate the meaning and significance of memory. Peone understands memory not merely in its psychological sense, but as the key to metaphysical and moral thinking. Part Two takes up the philosophical history of memory. Peone gives an overview of its role as both a speculative and technical instrument from ancient Greece through Renaissance Europe. Then with the rise of modernity and the critical philosophy of Descartes, the memory tradition falls into disrepute. Why did this happen? Was it accidental? Is a philosophical system grounded in memory possible after Descartes? In the final chapters, Montaigne and Hegel are analyzed as practitioners of “memory as philosophy” in the modern world.

Dustin Peone explores the contemporary significance of shame and fame, arguing that these concepts have strayed from their foundational social virtues. He critiques the technological mindset, highlighting its impact on the human condition and the way it reshapes societal values. Through this analysis, Peone invites readers to reconsider the implications of these themes in modern life.

Exploring the duality of human existence, the book argues that contemporary philosophy has leaned too heavily on tragedy, neglecting the equally significant aspect of comedy. It posits that human life embodies a tragi-comic nature, requiring philosophical inquiry to embrace both despair and laughter. This balanced perspective is essential for a deeper understanding of the complexities of the human condition.

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, new health techniques emerged, yet discussions on living well were scarce. While “social distancing” benefits the body, spiritual health relies on wisdom. In challenging times, we must turn to the past for guidance. This book, originally published as Plague Literature and now in its second edition, features philosopher Dustin Peone’s reflections on ten literary classics set during plague times. From each work, he extracts a central insight relevant to our current and future pandemics, offering lessons in prudence from the sages of history. It emphasizes pursuing a good life during a pandemic and explores the essence of flourishing in dark times, beyond mere survival. Critics praise the book for its systematic and historical perspective on contemporary challenges. Donald Phillip Verene, Professor Emeritus of Philosophy at Emory University, calls it a unique and timely work. Brian P. Quaranta from Duke University describes it as beautifully written in a clear and witty classical style. Rebecca U. Thorpe, Associate Professor of Political Science at the University of Washington, highlights its penetrating insights into human flourishing amid pandemic conditions, urging readers to understand not just survival, but how to live well in unsettling times.