Friday, September 20, 2019

On the Philosophy of Manly Hall

(1922)

Known primarily for the concept of 'recent initiation by a goddess', Hall is also known for the concept of 'taking care', 'taking care with secrets' and 'careful initiation'.

Although these concepts are important for fraternities (sometimes with a meaning similar to Mystery Schools), my conclusion is that Hall adds excessive mystique from any commonsense point of view.

Although fraternities might promise additional 'honors', the empirical meaning of such honors is heavily truncated by the duration of a life. The same could be said of wealth, psychic powers, or literary acclaim.

My further result is that what Hall offers, and what he was given, is not completely different than the accomplishments of a well-known, if prolific writer. I think if you looked for a long list of his biggest ideas you would be hard-pressed to find it.

Given that he was so obsessed with fame, it is ironic that he is known to be a member of a secret fraternity.

Other thinking:

Manly P. Hall --- Wikipedia

https://www.quora.com/Do-you-agree-with-philosopher-Manly-P-Halls-quote-that-In-order-to-be-a-truly-successful-rascal-you-also-have-to-be-an-atheist

History of Philosophy

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