On Astrological Judgments, by Thomas Aquinas

Because you asked if it was permissible to use astrological judgments, wishing to satisfy your request, I have taken care to write about what the sacred teachers transmit regarding this matter.

Abortion, by Olavo de Carvalho

This series of three newspaper columns by Olavo de Carvalho was collected in this order in the book “The Minimum You Need To Know So As Not To Be An Idiot”.

“Desire to Kill” explores the abortion debate, emphasizing that it revolves around the fundamental choice to abort rather than rational arguments. It highlights the ethical dilemma of uncertain fetal humanity, framing it as a moral risk and ultimately argues against abortion, concluding that no benefit justifies risking a potential human life. Olavo suggests that the pro-abortion stance is driven by an irrational desire to assert freedom and honor, rather than reasoned debate.

“Logic of Abortionism” argues that the morality of abortion is uncertain because it cannot be definitively proven whether a fetus is an extension of the mother’s body or a separate human being. Given this uncertainty, Olavo contends that the morally justifiable position is to refrain from abortion, as no one should arrogate the right to commit an act that might be homicide. The column criticizes abortion advocates for not recognizing the concept of species and suggests that their position relies on the idea that the status of being human is a social convention rather than a natural fact. Olavo also accuses abortion advocates of moral insensitivity and dishonesty in promoting their agenda.

“Candid Conversation about Abortion” is a commentary broadcasted on Radio Imprensa on December 4, 1996, discussing the morality and logic surrounding the abortion debate. The piece argues that the central question of the abortion debate revolves around whether the fetus is considered human. It critiques both spiritualist and materialist perspectives that claim the fetus is not human, with the author emphasizing that every attempt to argue otherwise encounters illogical contradictions. The column further contends that even if one considers the fetus as an organ or part of a woman’s body, its removal can be likened to self-mutilation. Olavo highlights that the fetus is also partially the father’s, challenging the idea that the mother has sole rights over it. Towards the end, the piece asserts that abortion advocates deceive women, leading them down a path of potential guilt and despair. The commentary concludes with an appeal to women, urging them to recognize the true intentions of those who support abortion rights, implying that they might be driven by insincere motives.

Envy, by Olavo de Carvalho

This series of four newspaper columns by Olavo de Carvalho was collected in this order in the book “The Minimum You Need To Know So As Not To Be An Idiot”.

“Dialectic of Envy” explores the complex nature of envy, describing it as a deeply hidden and conflicted human emotion. Envy is portrayed as a conflict between self-aversion and the desire for self-elevation. Olavo discusses how envy is rarely openly admitted and often concealed, as it can be shameful. Envy is seen as a feeling that thrives on secrecy, and it typically revolves around spiritual goods rather than material wealth or power. The column also touches upon the changing motives and expressions of envy in modern times, particularly in the context of revolutionary movements. It suggests that envy can be a driving force behind some social and political movements led by intellectual activists.

“Of Unconfessed Envy” discusses the prevalence of unconfessed envy in Brazilian society, particularly in the context of public recognition and voting. Olavo notes that there is a growing trend where people choose to applaud and vote for individuals who are perceived as less talented or remarkable, not out of genuine admiration, but as a way to avoid feelings of envy. This tendency is seen as a shift from a time when voters recognized and appreciated the talents and qualities of candidates, even if he had flaws. The column highlights how envy has become a pervasive and hidden force in society, influencing public opinion and decision-making, particularly in the realm of politics.

“Affected Contempt” discusses the biggest hindrance to the development of intelligence, which he argues is not economic, social, racial, or familial factors but rather moral ones. He emphasizes the importance of exposure to beauty in various forms from a young age to nurture higher intelligence. Olavo criticizes Brazilian culture for its preoccupation with the irrelevant and contempt for anything beyond his limited comprehension. He uses the example of the Brazilian media’s treatment of Ronald Reagan to illustrate his point that contempt can be a mask for envy.

“The Naivety of Cunning” explores how the 20th century thought of itself as clever by uncovering the flaws and weaknesses in great figures of the past, such as Marx, Freud, and Nietzsche, through psychoanalysis and critique. Olavo argues that this modern tendency towards self-criticism and suspicion led to the deconstruction of both divine and human qualities. He criticizes academic trends that focus on highlighting deficiencies in great individuals instead of appreciating their unique qualities and contributions. Olavo concludes that this self-destructive intellectual trend has made the 20th century appear remarkably naive in retrospect.

Education, by Olavo de Carvalho

This series of six newspaper columns by Olavo de Carvalho was collected in this order in the book “The Minimum You Need To Know So As Not To Be An Idiot”.

“Jesus and Stalin’s dove” discusses the relationship between reason, spirit, and feelings in guiding human conduct. It emphasizes the importance of subordinating feelings to reason and spirit, with reason being the pursuit of unity in the real world and spirit serving as the inspiration for seeking the ultimate Good.

“Education in Reverse” discusses the concept of education as a right versus a personal duty, using the lack of emphasis on self-education as a reason for Brazil’s poor performance in international tests.

“The Future of Boorishness” discusses the concept of “commonplaces” – stereotyped arguments stored in collective memory – and their impact on public opinion. These commonplaces can be intentionally created through slogans and repeated until their origins are forgotten, shaping people’s beliefs and reactions.

“The New Collective Imbecile” discusses the evolution of a concept called “The Collective Imbecile.” Originally referring to intelligent individuals corrupted by ideological influences, Olavo notes that the concept now applies to a new generation of internet-driven individuals aged 20 to 40. They have been influenced by different societal and cultural forces from their predecessors.

“Long Live Paulo Freire!” criticizes the educational methods of Paulo Freire, highlighting that his techniques were widely praised by communist parties and movements but did not lead to any significant reduction in illiteracy rates. Critics argue that Freire’s ideas lacked originality, were vague and repetitive, and failed to address practical implementation and potential manipulation of the masses. Olavo emphasizes that the critiques are not coming from right-wingers but rather from individuals who dedicated years to studying and following Freire’s teachings, suggesting that his “pedagogy of the oppressed” ultimately became an “oppression of pedagogy.” Despite this criticism, the article ironically approves of the posthumous recognition of Freire as the “patron of national education,” sarcastically highlighting the alignment of his educational philosophy with the decline in educational standards and academic performance in Brazil.

“Educating for Sissiness” discusses the concept of “sissiness” in the context of American education, particularly focusing on public schools. Olavo argues that there is a pervasive conditioning within the education system that promotes cowardice, weakness, and timidity, labeling it as a form of moral perfection. Olavo criticizes the education system for diminishing qualities like bravery and assertiveness, resulting in students who are vulnerable and paralyzed in the face of danger. Olavo highlights instances of school shootings and questions why more individuals didn’t take proactive measures to defend themselves and others. Olavo contrasts this perceived sissiness with historical conflicts and incidents where strength and courage were evident. The article also discusses how some individuals, such as security consultant Allen Hill, advocate for teaching boys to be braver and more aggressive to counteract criminal threats. Overall, the article emphasizes the negative impact of this perceived sissiness on the younger generation and criticizes certain aspects of American education while suggesting alternative approaches to fostering courage and self-defense.

Intelligentzia (But You Can Call It Mafia), by Olavo de Carvalho

This series of thirty-nine newspaper columns by Olavo de Carvalho was collected in this order in the book “The Minimum You Need To Know So As Not To Be An Idiot”.

Topics covered: 1. Illiteracy & Glory: Tutto è burla nel mondo; Academic glories of Lula; Phrases and lives; 2. People & Representation: Down with the Brazilian people; The esoteric obvious; Empire of pretense; 3. Media & Concealment: Who were the rats?; The price of collaborationism; The greatest of dangers; Nostalgia for stupidity; It is forbidden to stop lying; The technique of reverse labeling; The enlightened ones; 4. Morality & Inversion: Teachers of corruption; It is forbidden to notice; The recycling of ethics (part of 500 Years in Five Notes); Brace for the worst; The pit of Babel; 5. University & Farce: A generation of predators; The option for farce; Academic deceit in action; The true black culture; 6. History & Deception: The official history of 1964; Summary of what I think about 1964; The time of the military and the present days (part of Drugs are culture); The year when time stopped; 1968, the deception that hasn’t ended; 7. Marxism & Deceit: Devotees of a swindler; The plan and the fact; Weaknesses; 8. Decadence: Nostalgia for journalism; Where the fall began; From depressing fantasy to fearful reality; 9. Asylum: Speaking Brazil; Geese that speak; The revolution of the madmen; 10. Conspiracy: Conspiracy theory; False secrets; Zero credibility.

Relations Between Church and State, by Leonel Franca, SJ

“Relations Between Church and State” by Leonel Franca, SJ, is a comprehensive examination of the intricate connections between religious institutions and governmental bodies. The introductory section underscores the significance of the issue by emphasizing its historical relevance, doctrinal implications, and timely importance. It also outlines the intellectual and moral complexities associated with the subject, laying the foundation for the structured approach the author will take in exploring the topic.

The body of the work is divided into two major parts. Part I discusses the fundamental principles and characteristics of both the State and the Church, elucidating their nature, purpose, and functions, and culminating in a balanced Christian perspective on the concept of the State. Part II explores various solutions to the problem of how the Church and State should relate. This part includes various historical and contemporary approaches such as Caesarism, Hierocracy, and Liberalism, and examines them critically. It also looks at concordats as a contemporary solution. Through a meticulous and detailed analysis, Franca draws a clear line of understanding between these two influential institutions, finally presenting both ideal and tolerable real-world solutions to the complexities that arise from their interactions.

Revolution, by Olavo de Carvalho

This series of thirty-five newspaper columns by Olavo de Carvalho was collected in this order in the book “The Minimum You Need To Know So As Not To Be An Idiot”. It is divided into eight parts.

The first part is titled “Globalism”. It dives into various aspects such as "The globalist revolution", which unveils the changing face of international politics and power structures. Then it explores the concepts that are "Omnipresent and invisible", highlighting global influences we don’t readily see. In "Planetary Lula", a focus is placed on specific global leaders and their impact. This is followed by "Who invented Brazil?", a historical analysis of the country’s roots. Lastly, “A fifteen-century history” offers a wider perspective on the world’s evolution over 1500 years.

The series then transitions into its second part, “Manipulation”. It opens with a discourse on “Culture wars” before delving into "The elite turned into masses", an exploration of social status and power. The narrative continues with “Weapons of freedom” and "The demolition of consciousness", discussing societal control mechanisms. It further analyses these mechanisms in "Engineering of complacency", and how they’re "Driven by force". The section concludes with "Hypnotic servitude", a critique on the power dynamics of manipulation.

Part three is called “Mentality”, and it starts with "The revolutionary mindset". This part delves into the psyche of revolutionaries, with particular attention to the polarity in “Right vs. Left”. It continues to explore “Still the revolutionary mindset” and the "The corporealist illusion". This section also delves into “Ascetics of evil” and "The structural lie".

The fourth part, “Society x guilt”, explores societal dynamics and culpability. It features provocative titles such as “Straight from hell” and "The formula to drive the world mad". It also includes a look at a “Just society” and outlines a "General rule".

Part five, “Capitalists x revolutionaries”, seeks to compare and contrast these two groups. It examines "Capitalism and Christianity", discusses "Good and evil according to Olívio Dutra", and scrutinizes the relationship between "Money and power".

The sixth part, “Money x knowledge”, ventures into the complex interplay between wealth and wisdom. It covers a range of topics from “Mortal vanity” to "The counterculture in power", the dynamics of "The collective suicide of the rich", and ends with a historical reference in "Remember Karl Radek".

Part seven, “Revolutionaries x better world”, poses a provocative question about the ultimate goals and outcomes of revolutionary actions. It covers "The only absolute evil", the concept of "The transfiguration of disaster", and ends on a hopeful note with "At last".

Finally, part eight, “Unmasking”, seeks to reveal hidden truths. This last part exposes "The good old double tongue", explores the link between "Double tongue and strategy", and gives advice on "How to debate with leftists". Each part is designed to guide readers on a thought-provoking journey through the complex themes of revolution and change.

The Perpetual Orgy: Flaubert and Madame Bovary, by Mario Vargas Llosa

The investigation by the Peruvian narrator explores three different approaches to Flaubert’s text: in the first part, with an autobiographical tone, Vargas Llosa portrays himself as an enthusiastic and passionate reader. The second part is an exhaustive analysis of “Madame Bovary,” examining the skillful combination of rebellion, violence, melodrama, and sex in this work and its significance. The third part traces the relationship between Flaubert’s work and the history and development of the most representative genre of modern literature: the novel.

Mario Vargas Llosa proves to be as adept a literary critic as he is a storyteller. The encounter between the narrative intelligence of the Peruvian novelist and the most important work of one of the essential authors in universal literature gives birth to an essay that is worth an entire literature course.

Scattered Deleuze, by André Bernold and Richard Pinhas

Texts collected by André Bernold and Richard Pinhas.

Ten years ago, Gilles Deleuze passed away. Some friends begin to talk about him again and the vast project that his work has become worldwide. This discussion is conducted with a restraint (Jean Pierre Faye) that allows for the emotion of remembrance (Jeannette Colombel, Roger-Pol Droit, Pascale Criton) and ventures into paths of erudition tinged with humor (Philippe Choulet, Richard Zrehen, Charles J. Stivale, André Bernold) or polemical mood (Arnaud Villani), even delving into the realms of dreams (Raymond Bellour). An ethnomusicologist (Jérôme Cler) explains how A Thousand Plateaus has shaped his own being. Jean-Claude Dumoncel introduces us to the new deleuzian garden of Raymond Roussel. Jean-Luc Nancy finally opens up a joint meditation of Deleuze with Derrida, and René Schérer explores what an atheistic mysticism can be. Simon Hantaï sends a Fold in triple state, Hélène Bamberger and Marie-Laure de Decker share unpublished photos. Richard Pinhas shows us a manuscript entrusted to him. Timothy S. Murphy seals it all with a meticulous bibliography. Deleuze scattered? No. Deleuze is wholly assembled within the multiplicities of untimely audacity. It is us who are scattered around him.

The contributions: “Parallel Differences: Deleuze and Derrida” by Jean-Luc Nancy; “An Atheistic Mysticism” by René Schérer; “Deleuze-Sartre: Tracks” by Jeannette Colombel; “Images-Deleuze” by Roger-Pol Droit; “The Invitation” by Pascale Citron; “Deleuze Back to Back and Face to Face” by Jean-Pierre Faye; “How can one be Deleuzian?” by Arnaud Villani; “Empiricism as an Aperitif (a persistence of Deleuze)” by Philippe Choulet; “Bad Company” by Richard Zrehen; “The Dream of the Valley of the Queens” by Raymond Bellour; “Locus Altus” by Jean-Claude Dumoncel; “Millennial Deleuze, or Beyond the Tomb” by Charles J. Stivale; “Land of Dancers and Lame Rhythms” by Jérôme Cler; “Dialogue between Hylas and Philonous on Geer van Velde” by André Bernold; “An Annotated Bibliography of Gilles Deleuze, 1953-2003” by Timothy S. Murphy; “Theory of Multiplicities in Bergson”, Extracts in Facsimile from a conference by Gilles Deleuze.

The Reform of Nature, by Monteiro Lobato

When Dona Benta, Tia Nastácia, Littlenose, Pedrinho, and the Viscount of Sabugosa set out on a journey to a Peace Conference, the doll Emília sees a perfect opportunity to put an old and bold plan into action: reforming nature. In her opinion, nature had made a series of small mistakes that could be corrected with a few “adjustments.” Emília gradually starts meddling with one thing here, another detail there… All, as she insists on explaining, with the aim of promoting a better use of nature. Originally published in 1941, “The Reform of Nature” (A Reforma da Natureza) surprises with its relevance.

Aristotle in a New Perspective, by Olavo de Carvalho

Embedded in the works of Aristotle is a core idea that has escaped the perception of almost all his readers and commentators, from Antiquity to today. Even those who perceived it – and there were only two, as far as I know, over the millennia – simply noted it in passing, without explicitly attributing to it a decisive importance for the understanding of Aristotle’s philosophy.

However, it is the very key to this understanding, if by understanding we mean the act of grasping the unity of a man’s thought from his own intentions and values, rather than judging him from the outside – an act that involves carefully respecting the unexpressed and the implied, rather than suffocating it in the idolatry of the “text” objectified, tomb of thought. I call this idea the Theory of the Four Discourses. It can be summed up in one sentence: human discourse is a single potency, which actualizes in four different ways: poetics, rhetoric, dialectics, and analytic (logic).

History of the Devil, by Vilém Flusser

Parodying sacred texts, Vilém Flusser presents in this book an homage to the Devil, the “so glorious prince” who has enthused so many throughout human history, and in whose praise many have faced the flames “with ardent dedication.” He seeks to suspend our prejudices regarding the Devil in an attempt to recognize this character, whom he identifies with History itself: “It is possible to affirm that time began with the Devil, that his emergence or fall represents the beginning of the drama of time, and that devil and history are two aspects of the same process.”

Philosophy and Its Inverse, by Olavo de Carvalho

What is thinking? What connects Kant to the UN decisions in favor of a global government? Why does the cult of science “begin in ignorance of what reason is and culminate in the explicit appeal to the authority of the irrational”? These and other questions are answered by Olavo de Carvalho in this book that brings together some of his texts produced in recent years. But should we read Olavo de Carvalho? There are two possible answers: that of his detractors, always negative. And that of those who refuse to accept the indoctrination of the postmodern Weltanschauung, which, gathering supporters among liberals and leftists, is based on a corrupting tripod: relativism, hedonism, and atheism. Olavo knows that, for effective cultural resistance, those who wish to remain lucid must possess a consistent theoretical body, capable of presenting persuasive responses to the world of false fading of contemporary man and of advocating in defense of the truth, the value most vilified today. Thus, in the face of ideologues whose goal is to convince us that principles and values are obstacles to freedom, Olavo denounces the dictatorship of relativism – the weapon that remained to the left in the face of the failure of the dictatorship of the proletariat. And he does so with his characteristic style, which allows him, as he himself says, “to move freely between academic discourse and the voice of the heart”, driven by his “almost obsessive objective: the pursuit of the Supreme Good”. Nothing is small in this book. The response to certain polemicists turns into the steps that Olavo takes to teach Gothic architecture or to reposition logic as an accessory element of philosophical production. He dismantles Martial Guéroult, pays tribute to the unforgettable figure of Stanislavs Ladusãns, rebuts Peter Singer, Richard Dawkins, and other pseudo-luminaries. And he does so by following the method he proposes to his students: to be amazed at the reality of the experience. But not only that. Olavo de Carvalho reminds us that not forgetting our mortal condition is the starting point of metaphysical investigation. Here, he goes beyond philosophy – and resembles the masters of monastic spirituality, who recommend reflection on one’s own death to heal one of the most harmful diseases of the soul: acedia.

Activism, by Olavo de Carvalho

This series of six newspaper columns by Olavo de Carvalho was collected in this order in the book “The Minimum You Need To Know So As Not To Be An Idiot”.

“The Fundamental Choice” discusses the stark contrast between spiritual traditions, which value individual life purpose and virtues, and revolutionary ideologies that derive meaning solely from the fight for future societal changes, often causing present harm.

“Psychology of Fanaticism” dissects Victor Frankl’s traits of fanaticism, focusing on fanatics' loss of individuality, contempt for others' individuality, and a black-and-white perception of others as allies or enemies, which erodes recognition of others as unique individuals.

“Still on Fanaticism” further delves into fanaticism, illustrating how fanatics overlook others' personal goals and values, seeing them only through the lens of their party’s objectives, and denying individuals the right to self-definition.

“Sacred Causes” warns of the pitfalls in attributing ultimate value to movements or causes, arguing that individuals often use these as proxies for personal validation, leading to a sacralization of the contingent and the potential moral degradation of humanity.

“The Leftist Paradox” critiques socialist ideologies and practices, attributing them to leaders' emotional deficiencies and unrealistic ideals. Olavo notes the irony that socialist regimes often enact more brutality than the capitalist systems they criticize and condemns manipulative tactics like “asymmetric warfare.”

“The Religious Authority of Evil” links destructive historical events and lack of moral integrity to influential left-wing figures and organizations. Olavo argues that the shift in the historical sense from the 14th to 17th centuries, leading to a deceptive concept of perpetual instant, justifies crimes committed for a hypothetical future society and functions as a malevolent force.

Stars and Symbols, by Olavo de Carvalho

“Stars and Symbols” presents a collection of essays and conference papers, initially intended for a limited audience, exploring the exposition of traditional scientific concepts within a Brazilian context. Olavo reflects on the challenges of disseminating these doctrines in a society lacking the spiritual and cultural preconditions for their reception. With a backdrop of weakening Catholic influence, syncretism, and ideological distractions, the book emphasizes the importance of affiliating with authentic religious traditions for proper spiritual growth. The essays touch on the use of astrology as a support for understanding traditional cosmological and metaphysical principles and caution against pseudo-spiritual paths. While the collection lacks a systematic order, it serves as a showcase of Olavo’s efforts to disseminate traditional sciences, hoping to stimulate further study and exploration within the context of genuine religious affiliation.

The Symbolic Dialectic, by Olavo de Carvalho

This book, for the poet Bruno Tolentino, is an essential part of Olavo de Carvalho’s philosophy, which can only be properly understood by taking into account the issues the author addresses with mastery in this collection of studies, skillfully cohered: symbolism and the mode of analogical reasoning, the relationship between poetry and philosophy, the mode of existence of literary genres and their species, metaphysics and the traditional worldview as the basis for artistic criticism – among other topics. Olavo applies and exemplifies the fundamentals he sets out in the first part of the book in a second part, composed of 3 film critiques and a theatrical one: he analyzes films acclaimed by critics, such as The Silence of the Lambs (winner of 5 Oscars), Sunrise (winner of 3 Oscars), and Central Station (nominated for 2 Oscars).

The Delights of the Garden, by José Américo Motta Pessanha

This Epicurean essay by José Américo Motta Pessanha is translated to English to provide context for The Garden of Afflictions, by Olavo de Carvalho, which refers to it a few times.

Socialism, by Olavo de Carvalho

This series of six newspaper columns by Olavo de Carvalho was collected in this order in the book “The Minimum You Need To Know So As Not To Be An Idiot”.

“What is it, to be a socialist?” explores the negative impacts of socialism, arguing it leads to a concentration of power, economic disparities, and ultimate collapse into savage capitalism. It criticizes the blind endorsement of socialism despite its evident failures.

“Enlightening quotes” compiles quotes illustrating the violent nature of communist ideology from figures like Lenin and Marx, along with condemnations of communism for its destructive and freedom-depriving nature.

“Logic of scoundrel behavior” warns against overlooking the ongoing oppression under communism, particularly in Brazil. It stresses that the severity of communist state violence surpasses historical instances and emphasizes the need to resist its propaganda.

“Still on scoundrel behavior” highlights the atrocities committed under socialism, including genocides exceeding the casualties of world wars and natural disasters. It criticizes socialist propaganda for its deflection of attention from these realities.

“Clash of ideologies?” contends that capitalism is not an ideology but a proven economic system, while socialism relies on deceptive rhetoric. It argues the clash should be seen as an economic analysis, not an ideological battle.

“The victory of fascism” criticizes the acceptance of socialist ideology and its misrepresentation of capitalism. It points out the dangers of merging capitalism and socialism, which leads to increased state control, diminished personal liberties, and a path towards fascism.

Democracy, by Olavo de Carvalho

This series of five newspaper columns by Olavo de Carvalho was collected in this order in the book “The Minimum You Need To Know So As Not To Be An Idiot”.

“From Bobbio to Bernanos” highlights how the 20th century began with a rejection of democracies, moved through dictatorships with millions of casualties, and eventually embraced democracy as the preferred system. However, the concept of “more democracy” lacks a clear definition, with different interpretations based on political ideologies. Moreover, expanding democracy to various aspects of life, such as culture and economics, can lead to unintended consequences and potential conflicts, challenging the essence of democracy itself.

“The Democratic Metonymy” delves into the metonymic use of the term “democracy” outside the political sphere. It emphasizes that democracy only applies to the state, and actions of individuals or groups do not equate to democracy. Attempting to apply democracy to various fields, such as culture and economics, may lead to a dangerous expansion of government control and limit the scope of individual freedom.

“Normal and Pathological Democracy — I” discusses the concepts of normal and pathological democracy. It emphasizes that to identify a political illness in democracy, one must understand its normal functioning. Normal democracies, represented by countries like England, the USA, and several others, feature effective and orderly competition between left and right ideologies, each representing the best interests of the population. Olavo highlights the characteristics of the extreme left and extreme right, explaining how their ideologies differ from the mainstream left and right. He argues that a “right-wing international” is impossible due to the inherent contradiction between free market principles and state control, whereas the left can form alliances transcending borders.

“Normal and Pathological Democracy — II” applies concepts from the previous article to analyze democracy in Brazil, asserting that formal democratic institutions coexist with an ideological monopoly. It argues that this unhealthy environment has been fostered by the ruling left, which invents opposition to mask its own hegemonic control. It further claims that this constructed scenario creates a fear within individuals to express right-leaning ideas, which are increasingly criminalized as extremist, thereby leaving no legitimate right-wing opposition. This, in turn, creates a societal illusion of conflict where there is none. The piece ends by suggesting that this climate of deception and suppression pushes people away from reality, instilling a deep-seated fear in those who dare to see and express the true state of affairs.

“Extremism and Shame”, a part of "Two Notes", reflects on the double standards between the left and right in politics, questioning whether right-wing politicians would want to destroy the left completely, as the left has done with the right. Olavo criticizes the right for distancing themselves from “extremism” while the left embraces it with little restraint. He highlights instances where left-wing leaders associated with extremists without shame, while right-wing individuals would rather die than be seen with someone more right-wing than themselves. The piece emphasizes the disparity in how moderation is perceived, with the left convincing others that no amount of leftism is excessive, while the right often feels the need to display moderation, even when their beliefs hold value in larger doses.

Pretense, by Olavo de Carvalho

This series of three newspaper columns by Olavo de Carvalho was collected in this order in the book “The Minimum You Need To Know So As Not To Be An Idiot”.

“A Chapter from Memories” is a personal reflection on the author’s childhood experiences and the challenges he faced while growing up. The writer recounts a particular incident from his early years when he struggled to understand and confess sins during a religious ceremony. Later, he reflects on the discrepancy between the reality of his inner self and the societal expectations he felt compelled to conform to. The author points out that many people hide their true selves behind stereotypes and pretenses to fit into society. He criticizes Brazilian society for its lack of genuine connections and for valuing appearances over authenticity. The passage delves into the complexities of human existence, individuality, and the difficulty of genuine communication in a society that often settles for superficiality.

“Dead Horses” discusses the prevalence of insincere and fake characters in Brazilian literature and society. The author argues that many individuals in Brazil adopt a false consciousness, creating a culture of pretense and avoidance of reality. Brazilians engage in public debates where discussions are based on superficial names and signals rather than genuine understanding. The article highlights the pervasive use of collective condemnation of certain things, even without a proper basis, as a way for individuals to seek approval and solidarity. The author also criticizes the dominance of certain historical narratives and their association with moral values, resulting in a society where being normal is prohibited. The article concludes with a metaphorical comparison of Brazilian debates as a series of futile kicks in a cemetery of dead horses, representing the endless cycle of pretense and insincerity.

“The Hysterics in Power” discusses the author’s disturbing experiences with individuals who have adopted group or ideological stereotypes, losing touch with their genuine personalities. These people become hypersensitive to opposition and blind to reality, often occupying leadership positions within emotionally charged groups. The author attributes this transformation to strong emotional group unity, leading to the decay of individual consciousness and intuitive intelligence. They criticize leaders of various movements, like leftists, LGBT activists, and feminists, for embodying this hysteric behavior. The article emphasizes the importance of imagination and empathy for healthy dialogue and civilized coexistence, warning that a society with many hysterics in power can lead to deteriorating relationships and an increase in lies, dishonesty, and crime.

How to Become an Intellectual Hunk, by Olavo de Carvalho

In his article “How to Become an Intellectual Hunk”, Olavo de Carvalho satirizes the practice of aligning with certain philosophical schools without a deep understanding of their tenets. He suggests that many people superficially adopt Marxism, Aristotelian-Thomism, or Enlightenment-materialist-scientific liberalism to attain a sense of intellectual superiority and a false solidity to their personal identities. Olavo criticizes these individuals for using these philosophical labels as a shield against intellectual engagement and for silencing dissenting opinions by categorizing them as ‘fascist’, ‘heretic’, ‘religious fanatic’, or ‘profane’.

The Minimum You Need to Know About Olavo de Carvalho’s Thought, by Martim Vasques da Cunha

This article by Martim Vasques da Cunha, written for Gazeta do Povo, is one of the most thorough journalistic attempts to introduce new readers to the ideas of Olavo de Carvalho. The title is a riff on Olavo’s most famous book, the collection of journalistic columns known as “The Minimum You Need To Know So As Not To Be An Idiot”.

The Collective Imbecile, by Olavo de Carvalho

Who is the collective imbecile? He is twofold: born from the unlikely union of the conceited intellectual and the enraged mob. He is a rabid fanatic with a touch of elegant relativistic skepticism. He is the body of Bakunin with the head of Anatole France. Between truth and falsehood, he possesses the impartiality of indifference. But, like a true Chinese sage who acts by not acting, he turns his omission into the engine of history, yielding to the initiative of the masses and allowing the miracle of praxis to transmute theoretical contradictions into physical violence, which, in the end, is the only decisive response in the eyes of the skeptic. Behold, The Collective Imbecile, a stumbling block of the Brazilian intelligentsia of yesterday, today, and forever.

The Garden of Afflictions, by Olavo de Carvalho

The fundamental thesis of this monumental essay is that the history of the West is marked by the idea of Empire and its successive attempts at restructuring; even with different appearances, the same objective always remains: to expand the dominion of the Empire to the limits of the visible world.

Perhaps this is Olavo de Carvalho’s most discussed, and hardest to find, work. “O Jardim das Aflições” (The Garden of Afflictions) holds the stature of a masterpiece for many who follow the author’s lucid and tireless work.

If it is necessary to review this thesis, to assess how it relates to the political and social scenario of the present world, these are some of the questions that the author himself addresses in the unpublished afterword.

New Age and Cultural Revolution, by Olavo de Carvalho

The ‘New Age’ of which Fritjof Capra has become a celebrated spokesperson, and Antonio Gramsci’s ‘Cultural Revolution’ have something in common: both aim to introduce vast, profound, and irreversible changes in the human spirit. Both call for a break with the past and propose a new heaven and a new earth to humanity. The former has been making immense repercussions in Brazilian scientific and business circles. The latter, without making as much noise, has been exerting a significant influence on the course of political and cultural life in this country for three decades. Neither of the two has ever been subjected to the briefest critical examination. Accepted out of mere first-sight sympathy, they penetrate, propagate, gain power over consciousness, and become decisive forces in the lives of millions of people who have never heard of them, but suffer the effects of their cultural impact. For the conscious adherents and propagators of these two new proposals, nothing is more comforting than the astounded passivity with which the literate Brazilian public receives, admits, absorbs, and copies everything, with that talent for mechanical imitation that compensates for the lack of true intelligence.

Mário Ferreira dos Santos: Guide for the Study of His Work, by Olavo de Carvalho

Throughout more than two decades of teaching, Olavo de Carvalho has sometimes expounded to his students the principles and monumental discoveries of the philosophy of Mário Ferreira dos Santos, whom Olavo does not hesitate to refer to as “one of the greatest philosophers of the 20th century—not only in Brazil but in the world.” This book brings together the essence of what Olavo has written and taught about Mário’s work.

According to Mário Ferreira, there would be a kind of central line of philosophy, crossing all of history, which would go from Pythagoras, Plato, and Aristotle to Saint Thomas and Duns Scotus, and so on, until finally reaching Mário himself. This would be the backbone of philosophy, something I also believe in; in this lineage, I would also include Leibniz, Schelling, and Edmund Husserl, not to mention Louis Lavelle. What Mário achieves is, to parody the title of Frithjof Schuon’s famous book, a kind of ‘transcendent unity of philosophies’; thus, he can say that he is not making his philosophy; he is making philosophy.

Feline Problems: On “The Claws of the Sphinx” by Olavo de Carvalho, by Victor Bruno (Letters from Tradition, 021)

In Letter 021 of his newsletter “Letters from Tradition” (Cartas da Tradição), Victor Bruno criticizes Olavo de Carvalho’s text “The Claws of the Sphinx”.

“The Claws of the Sphinx” had argued that Guénon’s writings contain a hidden element that reveals his involvement in an Islamization project for the West. Carvalho questions whether reading Guénon’s works can lead people into a dangerous labyrinth of Islamization. To evaluate this claim, Olavo applies a methodology of textual and documentary analysis, focusing on Guénon’s own testimonies about himself. He also examines whether Guénon fits the criteria of a political agent according to Olavo’s political philosophy. Olavo argues that Guénon’s refusal to acknowledge the esoteric aspect of Christian initiation and his reaction to Frithjof Schuon’s views raise suspicions about his true intentions. However, when examining Guénon’s circumstances and connections, including his association with Shaykh Elīsh el-Kebīr, Olavo’s argument weakens. The lack of direct quotations from Guénon in Olavo’s text further undermines his hypothesis. Overall, Olavo’s claims about Guénon’s involvement in an Islamization project are not convincingly supported.

Bruno also examines the dispute between René Guénon and Frithjof Schuon, as presented by Olavo de Carvalho. Olavo characterizes their conflict as a frustrated discussion between friends, but the author argues that this is an inaccurate portrayal. The dispute between Guénon and Schuon was public and took place in the pages of a journal. It began when it was discovered that Schuon had relaxed the observance of his ṭarīqah (Sufi order), leading to a disagreement with Guénon. Guénon published texts addressing the issue, and Schuon responded by discussing the validity of Christian initiations, mentioning Guénon by name. The author points out that if Schuon’s argument were correct, it would undermine a significant part of Guénon’s work. Furthermore, the author highlights how Guénon disregarded the importance of the Catholic Church in his writings. The author also notes that both Guénon and Olavo changed their opinions on the exoterization of Christianity. The text concludes by emphasizing the importance of intellectual debate and the need to engage with the work of great thinkers, as exemplified by Olavo de Carvalho.

The Claws of the Sphinx, by Olavo de Carvalho

The Claws of the Sphinx – René Guénon and the Islamization of the West, by Olavo de Carvalho, provides a comprehensive critique of René Guénon’s traditionalist school of thought, which places significant emphasis on universal spiritual truths, and its implications for the West, particularly the Catholic Church. The work begins with an examination of the superficial universalism promoted by the United Religions Initiative (URI), contrasting it with the deep, intellectual traditionalism championed by Guénon and his disciples. Olavo underlines the transformative power of embracing the traditionalist perspective and emphasizes the need to seek nourishment beyond New Age superficiality.

Parts II and III delve deeper into religious traditions, particularly Islam, and critique Guénon’s distinction between exoteric (public rituals) and esoteric (hidden teachings) elements. Olavo questions the applicability of these concepts to other traditions like Hinduism and Christianity. He also delves into metaphysics, positing it as the structure of universal reality shared across all traditions, and introduces the idea of essential and accidental heresy, distinguishing between alterations to the structure of reality and specific aspects within a tradition. Olavo raises questions about the relationship between metaphysics and the culmination of traditions, suggesting that the primordial Tradition may serve as a common foundation for all cultures and traditions.

In the final sections, Olavo explores the challenges Catholics face in the context of Guénon’s teachings, including the perceived loss of spiritual depth within the Catholic Church. He also discusses Guénon’s predictions for the future of the West, positing that Guénon’s work essentially pushes for the Islamization of the West. Olavo then explores factors that hinder the perception of Guénon as an Islamic agent, such as Guénon’s disregard for political ideologies and activities, and his disciples’s view of his work as a divine intervention. He concludes by emphasizing that, despite its intellectual appeal, Guénon’s traditionalism offers no path of salvation for the West other than through Islamization.

Poverty, by Olavo de Carvalho

This series of four newspaper columns by Olavo de Carvalho was collected in this order in the book “The Minimum You Need To Know So As Not To Be An Idiot”.

“Poverty and Coarseness” criticizes the attitude of society, particularly the middle and upper classes, towards poverty and the poor in Brazil. It highlights the hypocrisy of individuals who give paternalistic advice but fail to provide practical help. Olavo argues that true education and respect should be shown to those in need, rather than treating them as inferior or undeserving. He emphasizes the importance of individual acts of kindness and genuine human interaction in addressing poverty.

“Learning from Dr. Johnson” reflects on the test of a civilization’s greatness based on its treatment of the poor, quoting Samuel Johnson. Olavo criticizes society’s inclination to delegate the responsibility of caring for the poor to the state, emphasizing the need for direct engagement and compassion. He contends that true freedom and genuine acts of help come from individuals, not bureaucratic systems. He urges people to confront poverty with empathy and personal involvement, rather than relying on abstract solutions or neglecting the plight of the poor.

“Rights and Poverty”, an excerpt from "Two Notes", discusses the moral obligation of the rich to help the poor. It argues that while the rich have a moral responsibility to assist the poor, it does not imply that the poor have a “right” to be helped. The article highlights the relativity of obligations and the universality of rights, emphasizing that the lack of means to help the poor does not make it illegal or criminal. It criticizes the notion that a society with poor individuals is inherently unjust and challenges the idea of a social debt that can be repaid to a single individual.

“A Parallel between Eric Voegelin and Lula”, an excerpt from "A Classic and a Parallel", draws a comparison between philosopher Eric Voegelin and former Brazilian president Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. It describes Voegelin as a renowned philosopher who remained humble despite his academic success, while Lula, born poor, acquired aristocratic tastes as he ascended the political ladder. The article highlights the different paths individuals take to rise in society and suggests that Lula’s transformation may reflect a discrepancy between his proletarian background and his newfound wealth and status.

Culture, by Olavo de Carvalho

This series of four newspaper columns by Olavo de Carvalho was collected in this order in the book “The Minimum You Need To Know So As Not To Be An Idiot”.

“Spirit and Culture: Brazil and the Meaning of Life” discusses the relationship between spirit, culture, and the current state of Brazilian culture. It emphasizes the importance of the impulse for knowledge and the sharing of that knowledge with others as the highest and noblest aspiration of the human soul. It argues that Brazilian culture has not contributed any original cognitive experiences to the world and is considered peripheral in the spiritual history of humanity. The article criticizes the spiritual lethargy and lack of originality in Brazilian culture, attributing it to the influence of decaying foreign cultures and the disregard for spiritual values. It concludes that true nationalism and the desire for Brazil to become a great power should be rooted in a genuine cultural and spiritual foundation.

“Pride in Failure” discusses the importance of language, religion, and high culture as enduring components of a nation, even when its historical duration comes to an end. These elements, which serve humanity as a whole, contribute to a nation’s success in the material and practical field. Olavo argues that a people’s cultural and intellectual capital, developed through language, religion, and high culture, is a crucial factor in achieving economic and political primacy. The article highlights examples from various nations to support this claim. It also criticizes a narrow materialistic mindset that prioritizes immediate needs over spiritual and intellectual growth, attributing it as a structural cause of failure. Olavo suggests that embracing language, religion, and high culture as essential foundations can lead to prosperity. However, the article laments that some societies, including Brazil, have succumbed to the pride of failure, where intellectual indolence and a lack of cultural capital have hindered progress and condemned them to perpetual ruin. The article concludes by questioning the future of such nations and suggests the need to prioritize language, religion, and high culture over immediate material gains.

“The Origin of National Stupidity” discusses the apparent contradiction between the intelligence of Brazilian children and the lack of intelligence among Brazilian university students. Olavo argues that this phenomenon is a result of a general problem with the organization of knowledge in Brazilian society rather than solely blaming the government. They highlight the importance of cultural organization in fostering intelligence and emphasize the need for a historical perspective and a strong foundation in education. Olavo criticizes the chaotic visual environment, the superficial dissemination of cultural information, and the misguided cultural reforms that prioritize fleeting trends over enduring values. They believe that importing the entire historical legacy and spreading lessons from diverse cultures will preserve and develop the intelligence of the Brazilian people. The article concludes by condemning the false liberation and dependence on media and fashion, seeing them as crimes against cultural development.

“The Source of Eternal Ignorance” discusses the degradation of Brazilian culture and the lack of awareness among the country’s business, political, and military elites. Olavo argues that the concept of “culture” in Brazil is misunderstood and primarily associated with arts and entertainment, neglecting its role in cultivating intelligence, maturity, and responsibility. The disappearance of high culture in Brazil goes unnoticed, as the elites rely on newspapers and television for their information, failing to engage with books that shape political debates in the United States. Olavo highlights the consequences of this ignorance, as the Brazilian elite forms misguided opinions about international and local affairs, leading to strategic decisions that weaken the country. The article also emphasizes the deception surrounding Barack Obama’s image, as Brazilian elites were unaware of critical investigations into his past, resulting in a distorted perception of his political stance. The lack of exposure to alternative viewpoints and critical literature further contributes to the perpetuation of ignorance among the Brazilian elite.

Vocation, by Olavo de Carvalho

This series of three newspaper columns by Olavo de Carvalho was collected in this order in the book “The Minimum You Need To Know So As Not To Be An Idiot”.

“Vocations and Misconceptions” discusses the concept of vocation and its omission in the question of whether people engage in activities for money or pleasure. The author explores the idea that someone can be dedicated to something wholeheartedly, driven by a higher calling or purpose, rather than solely driven by economic need or pleasure. The article also highlights the lack of emphasis on vocation in Brazilian culture, contrasting it with Protestant and Catholic traditions. It points out the materialistic immediacy of some individuals and the vocational disorientation of others in Brazilian society.

“The Message of Viktor Frankl” pays tribute to Viktor Frankl, an Austrian Jewish doctor and psychiatrist. Frankl’s experiences in concentration camps during World War II led him to discover the importance of finding meaning in life. He emphasized that love is the ultimate and highest goal that humans can aspire to, and he developed the concept of logotherapy, a form of therapy that focuses on helping individuals find meaning in their lives. The article discusses Frankl’s insights into the human search for meaning and his critique of materialistic and dehumanizing ideologies. It praises his courage in standing up against the intellectual currents of his time and his contribution to both clinical psychology and cultural criticism.

“Rediscovering the Meaning of Life” discusses the insights of Viktor Frankl, a psychiatrist who experienced the horrors of a concentration camp during World War II. While Freud believed that extreme deprivation would reveal the animalistic nature of humans, Frankl disagreed. He discovered in the camp that even in conditions of misery and fear, individuals could rise above and demonstrate acts of extraordinary generosity and self-sacrifice. Frankl identified a fundamental human motivation called the “will to meaning,” stating that the soul can endure anything as long as life has a purpose. He developed logotherapy, a psychotherapeutic technique that focuses on helping individuals find meaning and purpose in life. The text also highlights the concept of cognitive parallax, the disconnect between theoretical constructions and personal experience in modern thought. Despite the influence of Frankl’s book “Man’s Search for Meaning,” the academic establishment has not fully recognized his work due to cognitive parallax.

The Problem of Truth and the Truth of the Problem, by Olavo de Carvalho

The Problem of Truth and the Truth of the Problem, by Olavo de Carvalho, is a thought-provoking text that explores the concept of truth and its intricate relationship with judgments. Divided into three parts, the text examines contrasting attitudes towards truth, where some believe in its existence as a fundamental measure, while others dismiss it as unnecessary. The text presents a provisional definition of truth as the universal and permanent cognitive foundation for the validity of judgments, challenging the notion that truth is a property of judgments. It introduces the concept of veridicality, which pertains to judgments with a universal and permanent cognitive foundation. The text further delves into the foundation of judgments, extending beyond judgments themselves to include intuitive perception and the truth of empirical data. It concludes by addressing the question of where truth resides, positing that truth is a domain that transcends and encompasses facts, judgments, and relations.

The Problem of Truth and the Truth of the Problem offers a fresh perspective on truth, presenting a broader understanding that goes beyond the traditional view of truth as a property of judgments. It challenges the prevalent frivolous approach towards truth and emphasizes its importance as the foundation for the validity of judgments. The text highlights the significance of truth in our cognitive processes, recognizing its presence in a domain that encompasses various aspects of human cognition and experience.

Knowledge, by Olavo de Carvalho

This series of three newspaper columns by Olavo de Carvalho was collected in this order in the book “The Minimum You Need To Know So As Not To Be An Idiot”.

“Desire for Knowledge” reflects on the human desire for knowledge. Initially skeptical of Aristotle’s statement about this inherent desire, the author later realizes that it applies not only to Brazilians but to human nature in general. Olavo observes the prevalent disdain for knowledge in Brazilian society and highlights how even the wealthy and prosperous exhibit a lack of interest in learning. Through personal experiences abroad, Olavo discovers individuals from various social backgrounds who show genuine curiosity and humility in seeking knowledge. The article emphasizes the importance of fostering a culture that values knowledge and encourages a thirst for learning.

“The Power of Knowledge” discusses the process of acquiring knowledge and emphasizes the importance of experience, trial and error, reflection, and self-examination in gaining understanding. Olavo criticizes the belief in mystical revelations and sudden intuitions as insufficient for true knowledge. Instead, he advocates for rigorous self-reflection, intellectual honesty, and a willingness to question and doubt. The article asserts that the desire for knowledge is inherent in human beings and argues against the dismissal of objectivity and the prevalence of subjective ideologies. It calls for a comprehensive understanding of intelligence and its role in personal and social development.

“Without Witnesses” discusses the significance of personal introspection and authenticity. Drawing from Albert Schweitzer’s experience as a child, Olavo highlights the importance of self-awareness and moral consciousness. He argues that genuine moral awareness can only be achieved through solitary self-reflection, devoid of external surveillance. The article explores the role of religious practices, such as the examination of conscience, in nurturing moral consciousness and laments the decline of such practices in secular culture. Olavo emphasizes the need for inner examination, self-judgment, and personal responsibility in developing an authentic moral conscience.

Youth, by Olavo de Carvalho

This series of three newspaper columns by Olavo de Carvalho was collected in this order in the book “The Minimum You Need To Know So As Not To Be An Idiot”.

“The Juvenile Fool” criticizes the romanticized notion of youth as a time of rebellion and freedom, arguing that young people often conform to societal pressures and seek acceptance rather than true independence. It highlights the challenges faced by youth in their interactions with their peers and the tendency to blame their failures on their families. Olavo asserts that youth, despite their potential, often succumb to the influences of the majority and become susceptible to negative ideologies.

“Lost Generation” reflects on the importance of knowledge and the responsibility of individuals to acquire it before making judgments. It criticizes the cult of youth and the tendency of young people to believe they possess all the right answers without further study. Olavo laments the failure of many individuals who, despite being in positions of power and influence, long for their lost youth, attributing their dissatisfaction to external factors rather than personal responsibility.

“Paraná’s Youth” praises the students in Paraná, Brazil, for their humility and eagerness to learn. It contrasts these students with the general Brazilian youth who are often described as talkative, lazy, and opinionated without sufficient knowledge. The article criticizes the widespread belief that young people should have opinions on everything without the necessary foundation of understanding. It emphasizes the importance of humility and the recognition of one’s limitations in the pursuit of knowledge and intellectual growth.

Trauma of the Emergence of Reason, by Olavo de Carvalho

From a biographical point of view, an individual consciousness actualizes its capacity for knowledge through a trauma of the emergence of reason, which consists of the discrepancy between the individual’s growing accumulation of experiences over time and their more limited capacity to cohere and give expression to that mass of facts which, initially amorphous, can be ordered – as the individual expresses themselves – to the point where a form becomes discernible within it.

The Trauma of the Emergence of Reason is a text by Olavo de Carvalho for classes of the “Astrocharacterology” course, taught from 1990 to 1992 in São Paulo.

Abandonment of Ideals, by Olavo de Carvalho

Abandonment of Ideals is a transcript of a lecture from the course “Introduction to Intellectual Life”, from September 1987.

Since, for the human being, all things are merely preannouncements, it is necessary that his spirit never rest. It is fatigue that moves him and prevents him from perishing; it kills him, so that he does not die. From this living that does not live, comes the potential possession, always potential, of everything that, being perfect, distances itself from our present situation and, thus counterposed to the horizon, indicates a path. The ideal “must be placed in another time or another space that is not the present and the immediate, in a future or in a more comprehensive plane of reality. The ideal is the presence of this future in the present, of this other space here and now. An incomplete presence and, therefore, dynamic and tensional.”

Boethius’s Second Commentary on Aristotle’s On Interpretation

Boethius’s second commentary on Aristotle’s “On Interpretation” focuses on semantic theory and the relationship between language and thought. He elaborates on Aristotle’s view that spoken words and written letters are signs of the affections or thoughts in the soul, which primarily refer to things in the world. Boethius argues that words primarily designate thoughts and only secondarily signify things. He presents Aristotle’s semantic theory as a response to debates about the nature of language, highlighting the distinction between the conventional nature of language and the universal nature of thoughts and things. Boethius also explores the problem of how different individuals can have the same thought when observing the same object but using different words. He proposes a causal theory, suggesting that thoughts are identical because they are caused by the same object or event.

In addition to semantic theory, Boethius addresses the topic of future contingents and divine prescience. He examines Aristotle’s discussion on truth and falsehood in relation to future-tense sentences about contingent events. Boethius suggests that future contingent statements are indefinitely, not definitely, true or false. He offers interpretations of how truth values can be assigned to such statements, considering the retrospective fixation of truth value after the event. Boethius also discusses the issue of divine prescience, asserting that God’s knowledge encompasses the contingency of future events and does not imply determinism or necessitate everything to happen of necessity. His commentary provides valuable insights into these philosophical topics.

Conduct Towards Others, by Louis Lavelle

Conduct Towards Others, by Louis Lavelle, is a collection of texts that explore various aspects of human interaction and relationships. The book is divided into twelve chapters, each delving into different dimensions of how individuals relate to others and the world around them. Lavelle’s writings touch on topics such as the place of humanity in the world, the significance of presence and intimacy, the interconnectedness of all individuals, the dynamics of society and appearances, the virtues of discretion and consideration, the complexities of love and friendship, the role of justice and reciprocity, and the spiritualization of nature.

The chapters cover a wide range of themes, including the exploration of personal identity, the importance of genuine connections with others, the impact of our actions on the world, and the pursuit of spiritual growth. Lavelle examines concepts such as empathy, forgiveness, indifference, hatred, love, and the pursuit of virtue. Through his thought-provoking insights and reflections, Lavelle offers guidance on how individuals can navigate their relationships with others and cultivate a more meaningful and compassionate approach to life. “Conduct towards others” serves as a valuable resource for those seeking to deepen their understanding of human interactions and foster harmonious relationships in their personal and social lives.

Evil and Suffering, by Louis Lavelle

In two essays, first published in book form in 1940, Louis Lavelle dissects Evil and Suffering, tracing their relations to Good and Happiness, Body and Spirit, Matter and Spirit. Evil and Suffering is considered a work of moral philosophy. In it, Lavelle leads us to reflect on suffering and how it is embedded in the internal and external world of being. According to the author, the spirit arises from this experience of experiencing suffering.

The marks that pain causes in us allow us to transcend what we are to the external world, after we come to terms with suffering in the internal world. If suffering is an inherent condition of human life, it remains for us to do our best, face it, and overcome it. According to Lavelle, it is suffering itself that gives meaning to life; but this is only possible if there is an awareness that one is suffering, as it is this awareness that awakens the spirit. Through antitheses, the author also tells us that it is in absence that we find presence, in darkness that we see light, in solitude that we find communion, in an interior deepening where we perceive reality. Therefore, suffering connects beings. Pain shapes us, awakens us, and makes us better beings if we know how to confront it. The reading of this book, with its incredible spiritual richness, generates a dialogue within us about suffering, in order to transcend it.

Machiavelli, or, The Demonic Confusion, by Olavo de Carvalho

The origin of this essay dates back to the political philosophy course delivered in 2004 by Olavo de Carvalho to the Public Administration students of the Pontifical Catholic University of Paraná. From the notes prepared for these classes, the author wrote the first version of the essay, which was thought of as one of the chapters of a larger work on the revolutionary mindset, but ended up being published separately in 2011 due to its length.

Among the most famous modern thinkers, Niccolò Machiavelli is perhaps the first to present to the public such a disjointed and confusing doctrine. So disjointed and so confusing that one of his best interpreters, Benedetto Croce, summarized four centuries of investigations with the disenchanted conclusion that the Florentine thinker is ‘an enigma that will never be solved.’ After Croce, other first-rate scholars like Leo Strauss, Quentin Skinner, Hans Baron, and Maurizio Viroli believed they could solve the enigma; however, the solutions they offered differed so much from each other that they only managed to multiply it.

Consciousness of Immortality, by Olavo de Carvalho

In October 2010, the philosopher Olavo de Carvalho taught the course The Consciousness of Immortality in Colonial Heights, Virginia, which was later transcribed by his students. The transcriptions were organized and prepared by Ronald Robson and later edited and revised by the author, with the assistance of Mariana Reis. The result of this process, which emphasized the orality of the record, is presented in this book, which also includes a series of articles and lecture notes by the philosopher on the same course topic.

If we are immortal, we must be so in essence and not by accident. Immortality is then our true condition and the reality plane in which we effectively exist. In this case, the present bodily life is nothing more than a tiny fraction of our reality, a momentary appearance that conceals our true substance. Consequently, all the knowledge we can acquire within the limits of bodily existence is merely an appearance within an appearance. Although it grasps genuine portions of reality, it cannot have its own foundation within itself, but must seek it in the sphere of immortality.

The Error of Narcissus, by Louis Lavelle

The Error of Narcissus is not, contrary to what the title suggests, a lengthy meditation on the myth of Narcissus - this is merely its starting point. Louis Lavelle starts from the idea of self-enclosure to ask himself what would be the openness to the other within the common world, which for him is the “total presence.” Thus, Lavelle dedicates himself to themes such as measure, which is “at the same time this tension and understanding that make each thing be in its place, that make each faculty exercise its most direct and strongest play,” and wisdom, which, “instead of being, as is commonly believed, a renunciation of the absolute, is, on the contrary, that encounter with the absolute that gives each thing its measure.” Ultimately, Lavelle seeks an existential perfection, conjecturing standards by which a person could judge their most intimate actions and reach purity, “so perfect and so united that it offers no opening for any attack. It does not divide itself to know itself.”

What Is Psyche, by Olavo de Carvalho

In Olavo de Carvalho’s essay What Is Psyche, the concept of psyche is explored within the context of ancient and modern psychology. Olavo highlights the differences between ancient and modern approaches, with ancient psychology focusing on the unified vision of life and soul, while modern psychology seeks to differentiate itself from other scientific disciplines. The essay examines the attribution of psychic causes to behavior and raises questions about how psychologists distinguish psychic causes from other possible causes.

Olavo proposes four causes: physical, logical, chance, and psychic, and defines psyche as a zone of indeterminacy where these causes combine. He argues that psyche acts through these causes rather than directly. The distinction between psyche and chance is discussed, with psyche exhibiting elements of freedom and indeterminacy that serve the individual organism’s interests.

The characteristics of the psyche, including efficiency, freedom, creativity, will to power, and individuality, are outlined. The essay explores the processes of adaptation, expansion, perception, memory, and learning within the operations of psyche. The ego’s formation and its role in self-limitation of the psyche are discussed, along with the various notions of the unconscious. Olavo concludes by emphasizing that the psyche is the principle of human freedom, seeking to manifest itself by adapting to limitations, and psychotherapy aims to address the limitations of the ego and establish a balance with individuality and the external situation.

Intelligence, Truth, and Certainty, by Olavo de Carvalho

Intelligence, Truth, and Certainty, by Olavo de Carvalho, is a comprehensive work that delves into the nature of intelligence and its relationship with truth and certainty. The author critiques prevailing views on intelligence, challenges the notion of artificial thinking, explores evidence and certainty, examines the connection between intelligence and will, and discusses the importance of intellectual elites, independent thinking, doubt, and self-awareness. The work emphasizes the role of intelligence in apprehending truth, cultivating a desire for truth, and making judgments of truth or falsehood. It underscores the importance of embracing doubt, intellectual humility, and the formation of an intellectual elite based on shared belief in the power of human intelligence. The development of reflective consciousness and self-awareness is highlighted as essential for the pursuit of knowledge and the transformation of knowledge into self-awareness. Overall, the work provides a thought-provoking exploration of intelligence, truth, and certainty, urging readers to prioritize the pursuit of truth and engage in independent thinking.

Visions of Descartes, by Olavo de Carvalho

Olavo de Carvalho gathers in this book the essentials of what he has taught about René Descartes in his courses and conferences. Convinced that philosophy does not arise from a taste for abstract reasoning, but from the impulse to apprehend and express the universal meaning of accessible experience, the author leads us to a return from Descartes’s ideas to the real experiences that originated them. This method does not aim to provide a psychological explanation of a philosophy, but to clarify the effective meaning that the ideas had in the individual consciousness of the philosopher who conceived them, beyond – and beneath – the formal and dictionary sense they acquired throughout the philosophical tradition. For Olavo de Carvalho, Descartes’s philosophy is not an abstract system of ideas, but a cognitive drama.

Boethius’s First Commentary on Aristotle’s On Interpretation

Boethius’s first commentary on Aristotle’s “On Interpretation” aims to provide a deeper understanding of the book’s complex content and make it more accessible to readers. Boethius acknowledges the high regard that Aristotle’s work holds within the Peripatetic school, particularly in its meticulous examination of simple propositions. However, he also recognizes that the text presents difficulties and intricate judgments, making it challenging to comprehend easily. To address these challenges, Boethius has added two layers of commentary to supplement the interpretation of the book. By unraveling the concise and cryptic discourse, Boethius aims to bring clarity to the fundamental concepts of sentences. While some aspects require a deeper level of insight, which will be addressed in a subsequent series, Boethius assures readers that they can expect to grasp the material gradually by following the order of the text and the flow of the speech. Overall, Boethius’s first commentary intends to facilitate a step-by-step understanding of the content hidden within the brevity of Aristotle’s work.

Self-consciousness, by Louis Lavelle

The title of this book is “La conscience de soi”, which could be rendered most literally as “the consciousness of one’s self”, or more idiomatically as “self-consciousness” or “self-awareness”. Due to the constant uses of “consciousness” throughout the book which could not be very aptly rendered “awareness”, I went with the former. French does not have separate words for “conscience” and “consciousness”, but the latter sense is clearly indicated by speaking of “(consciousness) of” something, namely yourself.

Elements of Olavo de Carvalho’s Philosophy, by Ronald Robson

“Elements of Olavo de Carvalho’s Philosophy”, by Ronald Robson, provides a comprehensive overview of the key principles and concepts in the philosophical framework developed by Olavo de Carvalho. The work emphasizes the significance of individual consciousness as the foundation of knowledge, going beyond traditional subject-object distinctions. Olavo’s philosophy explores the complex layers of personality and the process of self-awareness, proposing a theory of twelve distinct layers that shape an individual’s development. The book delves into the role of confession and the method of extrusion in integrating personal experiences and articulating them through language.

The text also delves into the theory of four discourses, drawing inspiration from Aristotle’s work, to understand different modes of human communication. Olavo’s philosophy encompasses the investigation of reality and the world of principles, aiming to uncover the metaphysical foundations that govern existence. The author explores the importance of knowledge through presence, training consciousness to allow reality to speak to it, and advocates for cultural criticism as a means to challenge symbolic and political structures that limit individual consciousness.

Furthermore, the book delves into the concepts of cognitive parallax and the revolutionary mentality, highlighting their impact on intellectual understanding and social dynamics. Olavo’s political theory is presented, focusing on power as the ability to determine the actions of others, and identifying economic, military, and intellectual powers as essential aspects. The text concludes by emphasizing the significance of individual consciousness and self-awareness in Olavo’s philosophy, as well as the role of traditions, esoteric organizations, and intellectual orders as shaping forces in history.

Overall, “Elements of Olavo de Carvalho’s Philosophy” provides a comprehensive and in-depth exploration of the key ideas and principles within Olavo’s philosophical framework, encompassing metaphysics, epistemology, and political theory. It offers valuable insights into the nature of knowledge, individual development, communication, and societal dynamics, making it a significant contribution to the understanding of Olavo’s philosophical perspectives. After the end we have a list of references, which has been left untranslated, as most of the works have not been translated into English yet.

The Posthumous Man, by Mário Ferreira dos Santos

This is a book about Nietzsche by Mário Ferreira dos Santos. The title of the book in Portuguese was “O Homem Que Nasceu Póstumo”, or literally, “The Man Who Was Born Posthumous”. It is named after the famous quote by Nietzsche from his book “The Anti-Christ”, in which he said that “some men are born posthumously”. The thing is that in Portuguese, this quote is typically rendered “alguns homens nascem póstumos”, i.e., “some men are born posthumous”, with the adjective rather than the adverb. (Which, as far as I know, is equally allowed by the German, “Einige werden posthum geboren”.)

The subtle change in sense given by this common rendering into Portuguese, however, may be highlighted by the fact that, in quotation (rather than translation), people sometimes insert the word “já” after “homens”, giving the sense that “some men are already born posthumous”, or, some men are already posthumous at their birth. It conveys a sense of being fated, since your birth, to be “posthumous”, i.e., to be only known from your remains. It’s not that “the discovery of your remains is your true birth”, but rather that you were a “posthumous person” throughout your whole life, since you were born. It puts quite a different emphasis on Nietzsche’s meaning.

Pythagoras and the Theme of Number, by Mário Ferreira dos Santos

“God made the integers, all the rest is the work of men” (Kroneker).

“I am everything that has been, and everything that will be, and no mortal has ever lifted my veil” (Isis, according to the inscription of Sais, reported by Plutarch).

Logic and Dialectic, by Mário Ferreira dos Santos

Modern philosophy has repositioned the logical problem, influenced by Kant’s criticism and Hegel’s dialectical contributions. Despite being overlooked and subject to derogatory criticism, Dialectics has made significant contributions to logical categories and science. This book explores Formal Logic, General Dialectics, and Decadialectics, adhering to certain norms. Formal Logic is briefly covered as its achievements are considered definitive, while new possibilities within the field, including phenomenological analysis, will be explored in “Philosophical Themes and Problems.” Dialectics, a growing discipline, requires answers to emerging questions. General Dialectics encompasses various important themes and necessitates investigations in other fields, acknowledging the influence of sensory, somatic, and affective aspects. Hegelian thought and dialectical perspective are relevant to philosophy, leading to the construction of a comprehensive worldview. This volume focuses on general aspects and introduces Decadialectics, aiming to coordinate existing dialectical structures. Other works will delve into specific dialectical topics. The methodology presented in this book enables comprehensive analyses while recognizing the partial role of formal logic. Dialectics is a logic of existence and becoming, encompassing oppositions without excluding formal logic.

Spiritual Intimacy, by Louis Lavelle

The texts included in this volume are articles written by Louis Lavelle for philosophy journals, communications at conferences, and lectures given at universities in France and abroad. Each of them presents, in summary, one of the essential themes of his doctrine: Spirit, Time, Self, the relationship between Spirit and the World, Essence and Existence, Participation. They span a period from 1936 to 1951, during which he co-directed, with René Le Senne, the collection “Philosophie de l’Esprit” (Philosophy of the Spirit). Through some texts in this volume, one can see the importance he attached to this series of works. It was also the period when he was writing his major work, “La Dialectique de l’éternel Présent” (The Dialectic of the Eternal Present), which was supposed to be crowned by a final part on Wisdom. He was not granted the time to write it. He was preparing it in his final meditations, and when he was invited to participate in the activities of the Society of Philosophy of Bordeaux in 1950, he chose as his subject: Wisdom as the science of spiritual life. It seemed to us that no text could be more suitable for the conclusion of this volume, which contains a summary of his entire doctrine and ends as his work was supposed to end, with the idea of wisdom where he saw the culmination of all philosophy.

—THE EDITORS.

Notes on Symbolism and Reality, by Olavo de Carvalho

In Olavo de Carvalho’s Notes on Symbolism and Reality, from his Philosophy Seminar, he addresses the concept of symbolism and its relation to reality. He critiques the reductionist methodologies often used in deciphering symbols, namely the ethnological, psychological, and esoteric methods. Olavo argues that these methods tend to divert attention from the nature of the symbol itself, and instead focus on the causes behind symbol production. His proposed approach to understanding symbols calls for a suspension of systematic interpretation efforts until a more comprehensive understanding of the nature of the symbol is achieved. He emphasizes the significance of recognizing the distinctiveness between symbolic and non-symbolic meanings ascribed to words, graphics, objects, and entities.

Olavo then delves into what he terms the “rotational perspective,” which underpins the act of knowledge itself. He emphasizes that every step actualized in consciousness implies the virtualization of others, leading to a structure of knowledge that is more akin to a rotating perspective. He adds that this structure is fundamental to the very nature of thought, perception, and the very being of things. He insists that neither abstract thought nor sensory perception can wholly know anything in an instant or as a whole. Rather, our understanding or knowledge of something comes in parts, with some aspects coming to the fore while others recede into the background.

Finally, Olavo confronts the idea of unity in relation to sense and the perception of reality. He posits that the fragmentation of the world into supposedly pre-categorical “data” is a fallacy that is either the result of pathological states of ego division or efforts of imaginative abstraction. Olavo argues that the unity and meaning of the world are given, not constructed, and that the task of philosophy is to record and defend the intuitively perceived world from dissolution. He also addresses the implications of the expectation of continuity beyond death as a necessary condition of human action, asserting that the general movement of the cosmos impacts all human experiences.

Identity and Univocity, by Olavo de Carvalho

Identity and univocity, by Olavo de Carvalho, is a draft for a philosophy seminar on the topic of identity and univocity. It begins with definitions of metaphysics, necessity, critical metaphysics, and dogmatic metaphysics. The author presents a series of axioms, including the idea that self-evident propositions are those whose contradictories cannot be formulated in a logically univocal way. The text then introduces the supreme metaphysical principle called the Principle of Integrity, which asserts that every subject of a proposition that can be the object of an action or the subject of an action by another subject is one and the same. The text explores various forms of suppression and reduction in relation to this principle. It also discusses self-evident propositions and argues that the principle of identity is self-evident because its contradictory lacks univocal meaning. Olavo claims that self-evident propositions are necessarily true and that evidence cannot be hypothetical. The self-evidence and truth of the Principle of Integrity are emphasized. The text provides an example of another self-evident proposition: “I am here.” The self-evidence and necessary truth of St. Anselm’s proof are also discussed. The author argues against the existence of purely formal logical self-evidences and distinguishes between logic and metaphysics. The text concludes with the statement that logic is based on self-evident principles but does not encompass the entire domain of truth. The draft indicates that it is part of a larger work in progress called “The Eye of the Sun” and will be used for an oral presentation in the Philosophy Seminar.

The appendix includes a discussion between a participant named Villiers de L’Isle-Adam and Olavo de Carvalho in the Sapientia Forum. Villiers raises the topic of the principle of non-contradiction formulated by Aristotle and presents a study by Jan Lukasiewicz that examines different formulations of this principle. Lukasiewicz’s analysis focuses on the ontological and logical formulations and explores their validity. Villiers discusses Lukasiewicz’s arguments, including the challenge to the principle of non-contradiction posed by contradictory objects and the distinction between real objects, constructive abstractions, and reconstructive abstractions. Villiers acknowledges the practical importance of the principle in everyday life but questions its complete validity in relation to certain objects and situations. Olavo de Carvalho responds by stating that Lukasiewicz’s challenge is not metaphysically valid and fails to distinguish between logical and ontological aspects. He argues that Lukasiewicz’s arguments actually presuppose the validity of the principle of identity. Olavo criticizes the separation of logic and ontology and warns against drawing ontological conclusions from purely constructive formalisms. He suggests referring to his forthcoming book, “The Eye of the Sun,” for further clarification on the topic.

(The book “The Eye of the Sun” was never published, and might never be published now that Olavo has died.)

Commentary on Cicero’s Topics by Anicius Manlius Severinus Boethius

The Commentary on Cicero’s Topics by Anicius Manlius Severinus Boethius, otherwise known as In Ciceronis Topica (ICT), is a comprehensive exploration and discussion on Cicero’s Topics. Boethius’s commentary is divided into six books, each comprising different aspects and interpretations of logic, arguments, and various topics addressed by Cicero. The commentary was written around 520–523 AD and it overlaps with De topicis differentiis in content and time period. The version transmitted to us, however, appears to be unfinished, missing the end of the sixth book and the entirety of the seventh book that Boethius claims to have written.

The first four books of ICT delve into the nature of logic and topics, providing commentary on different philosophers’ perspectives, including Stoics, Cicero, Plato, and Aristotle. Boethius explores the meaning of argumentation, the structure and role of propositions, and the concept of maximal propositions. There’s an in-depth exploration of ‘Topics,’ where Boethius discusses the division of Topics and the subdivisions of Topics in relation to the matter at issue. The nature and role of related things in the formation of arguments is addressed extensively, with a specific focus on how these relate to the subject at hand. Books III and IV further delve into definition, partition, designation, and the understanding of related things.

In the fifth and sixth books, Boethius scrutinizes the seven Stoic modes of hypothetical syllogisms, the role of causes in arguments, and presents a critical commentary on Cicero’s representation of these modes. A deep analysis is offered on the nature of argument, question, proposition, and terms. There’s also a discussion on the nature of effects and their role in arguments, as well as a focus on comparisons. Additionally, the division of Topics is reviewed along with the reasoning for believing it complete. Finally, the extrinsic Topic from authority and its role in argumentation is discussed, along with the conditions and circumstances that give rise to authority.

12 Layers of Personality, by Olavo de Carvalho

The Twelve Layers of Human Personality, And Their Unique Forms of Suffering, by Olavo de Carvalho, is a comprehensive exploration of the different stages or layers of human personality development and the associated suffering. Olavo views personality as a whole that undergoes transitions between layers, each influenced by new objectives or focal points in life. The layers can be divided into integrative layers, which enclose the personality within a defined framework, and divisive layers, which expose the personality to external influences and trigger a struggle for higher integration. Throughout the text, Olavo delves into each layer, discussing its characteristics, developmental milestones, and the specific forms of suffering individuals may experience within each layer.

According to Olavo, each layer represents a significant shift in the purpose and focus of the individual’s life. These transitions occur when the entire personality changes as a whole, without altering its individual parts. The whole personality can only change in relation to something external to itself, often a new objective or focal point in life that the individual strives to achieve. These transitions mark the progression and evolution of the individual’s personality over time, resembling a scheme of life and temporal development.

Olavo’s theory emphasizes that self-consciousness plays a crucial role in understanding the layers of personality. Each new layer represents a new pattern of self-consciousness, and the transitions between layers involve shifts in values, objectives, and the overall direction of the individual’s life. The layers encompass various aspects of human existence, including physical attributes, temperament, cognition, emotions, social roles, intellectual pursuits, and moral responsibilities. Suffering arises within each layer due to failures, misunderstandings, discrepancies between intentions and abilities, and unmet expectations.

Overall, Olavo’s work provides a comprehensive framework for understanding the development of human personality and the unique forms of suffering experienced at each layer. By exploring the transitions between layers and the changing objectives and focal points in an individual’s life, the text offers valuable insights into the complexities of human existence and the challenges individuals face in their personal growth and self-realization.