Home, School, and the Snail's Shell

Home, School, and the Snail's Shell

corriere.it

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.