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Home, School, and the Snail's Shell
This philosophical essay explores the concepts of 'home' and 'school' as fundamental aspects of a balanced life, using the metaphor of a snail's shell to represent the harmonious integration of needs and growth, contrasting modern society's overwhelming tools and technologies.
Italian
Italy
TechnologyLabour MarketGrowthWell-BeingPhilosophyBalance
Ivan IllichEsquirolLucretiusMilo De AngelisHomer
- What are the author's definitions of 'home' and 'school'?
- The author believes 'home' should be where one feels a sense of belonging and acceptance, while 'school' is where one encounters life's challenges and opportunities for growth. These two are not mutually exclusive, but complementary aspects of a fulfilling life.
- How does the author critique modern tools and institutions?
- The author critiques modern technology, institutions, and even the body as 'disintegrating' forces, separating individuals from themselves and others, unlike tools that should integrate and support well-being. The example of email is used to illustrate this disharmony.
- What constitutes a fulfilling life according to the author?
- According to the author, a fulfilling life involves a balance between the feeling of belonging ('home') and personal growth ('school'). The text uses examples such as nature, poetry, and meaningful relationships to illustrate this balance.
- What is the central metaphor used in the text to explain the balance between 'home' and 'school'?
- The author uses the metaphor of a snail's shell to represent the balance between 'home' (belonging) and 'school' (growth). The shell's harmonious growth symbolizes a healthy integration of life's needs, contrasting with modern society's overwhelming tools and technology.
- What is the author's proposed solution for dealing with the overabundance of technology and institutional pressures?
- The author advocates for a mindful approach to technology and institutions, urging readers to discern what truly supports their well-being and remove anything that creates excessive stress or disharmony. The goal is to find a balanced life, exemplified by the snail's harmonious shell-building.