Once out of nature
Book Description
In this thought-provoking exploration, Andrea Wilson Nightingale unveils Augustine's profound insights into what it means to be human in a world where we exist both within and beyond the natural order. Drawing from philosophy, sociology, and literary theory, she reveals how Augustine understood our fundamental condition as embodied souls living as "resident aliens" on earth.
At the heart of this work lies a fascinating paradox: while our physical bodies anchor us to the present moment and earthly time, our minds operate in an entirely different temporal realm. Nightingale demonstrates how Augustine recognized that human consciousness constantly stretches beyond the here and now, reaching into memories of the past and anticipations of the future. This creates what she terms "psychic time," a mental dimension that exists alongside but separate from the physical time our bodies inhabit.
The result is a vision of humanity as beings dwelling simultaneously in two distinct time zones, never quite able to achieve complete self-presence. This dual existence sets us apart from both our prelapsarian ancestors and the resurrected saints, who exist outside temporal constraints altogether in an eternal present.
Nightingale skillfully connects these ancient insights to contemporary discussions about human enhancement and our complex relationship with embodiment and the natural world. Her analysis offers readers a unique lens for examining the boundaries of human experience and our place within the larger cosmic order.
Who Is This For?
📖 Reading Level: Medium (200-400 pages) (~7 hours)
📄 Length: 244 pages
What You'll Discover
- ✓ Explore Människokroppen
- ✓ Explore Zeit
- ✓ Explore Zeitbewusstsein
- ✓ Explore Religiösa aspekter
- ✓ Explore Philosophische Theologie
- ✓ Explore Tid
- ✓ Explore Leiblichkeit
- ✓ Explore Zeitlichkeit
