Ideas for living — philosophy as everyday practice
Philosophique explores what it means to live thoughtfully in an age of distraction. Host Eric Delgado brings philosophy out of the abstract and into the personal — exploring how ideas shape the way we think, act, and become ourselves. Each series centers on a single book, unfolding across several episodes that reflect on his own life and the lives of his guests, tracing how philosophical ideas can shape the way we heal, grow, see ourselves, and connect with others.
This is not academic philosophy. It’s a practice — a way of being human with more depth, reflection, and care.
Ideas for living — philosophy as everyday practice
Philosophique explores what it means to live thoughtfully in an age of distraction. Host Eric Delgado brings philosophy out of the abstract and into the personal — exploring how ideas shape the way we think, act, and become ourselves. Each series centers on a single book, unfolding across several episodes that reflect on his own life and the lives of his guests, tracing how philosophical ideas can shape the way we heal, grow, see ourselves, and connect with others.
This is not academic philosophy. It’s a practice — a way of being human with more depth, reflection, and care.
On the inaugural episode of the Philosophique podcast, we explore Stephen Batchelor's The Art of Solitude with the author himself. We discuss Montaigne and modern methodologies for achieving solitude; the role of solitude in the work of Vermeer and Agnes Martin; plant medicine; and shamanism. Finally, we discuss meditation. Join us for a discussion of aloneness, isolation, and the path to authentic, impactful solitude.
Episode 1: The Art of Solitude with Stephen Batchelor
In our first episode, I sit down with Stephen Batchelor, author of The Art of Solitude, to explore what it means to cultivate solitude in a world that pulls us toward constant connection. We discuss Montaigne's tower, Vermeer's quiet rooms, Agnes Martin's grids, ayahuasca ceremonies in Mexico, and the daily practice of meditation—all as different paths into the same essential human experience: being alone with ourselves.
What we explore:
About Stephen Batchelor: Stephen Batchelor is a contemporary Buddhist teacher and writer. He trained as a monk in both Tibetan and Korean Zen traditions and is the author of numerous books including Buddhism Without Beliefs, After Buddhism, and The Art of Solitude. Learn more at stephenbatchelor.org
About Philosophique: Philosophique is a quarterly philosophy subscription for people navigating deeper questions about meaning and purpose. Each box includes a curated philosophy book, an in-depth reading guide, and a custom candle. Our first box launches December 15 on Kickstarter.
Hosted by Eric: Eric is the founder of Philosophique. A former life sciences consultant, he discovered philosophy while transitioning from external success to deeper questions of meaning. He lives in New York City.