News & Events - School of Practical Philosophy

Is this the life I want?

What prompts people to follow Practical Philosophy? Some people speak of wanting to find the meaning of life, some speak of a general dissatisfaction in what they are doing, others want to know ‘who am I?’. For others a difficult experience has led them to question their lives and seek deeper meaning.

Śrī Śāntānanda Sarasvatī

If you begin to be what you are, you will realise everything, but to begin to be what you are, you must come out of what you are not. You are not those thoughts which are turning, turning in your mind; you are not those changing feelings; you are not the different decisions you make and the different wills you have; you are not that separate ego.
Well then, what are you?

Philosophy

Philosophy is the love of wisdom and wisdom is the true knowledge of the Self. Self-realisation is the aim of all true philosophy and the fulfilment of man is to realise that truth about himself.

Courses

The School has been presenting courses in Gauteng since 1959. The philosophy programme consists of a systematic series of courses that build upon concepts taught in previous courses.

FAQ

The courses are designed to be suitable for people of all faiths – and those who follow no particular faith – and over many years this has been found to be so. These FAQ may be of use to help you decide.

Who are the students?

Our students represent a broad spectrum of people from all walks of life - young and old, from many different professions.

This diversity holds true for all School locations.

Are there any opportunities to socialise with the group?

Social interaction is all part of the fun of being in a philosophy group and a natural consequence of meeting new, interesting people. We also organise events from time to time which give opportunities for meeting fellow students.

Of course, philosophy provides many opportunities for quiet reflection as well...

Is this an academic course?

No, this is not an academic course and there are no exams.

As the word philosophy (meaning ‘love of wisdom’) implies, the purpose of this study is to gain the wisdom that will allow you to lead a more useful and rewarding life.

Philosophy as presented by the School has helped me discover that some of the things I have silently known to be true were indeed true. For instance, I have always suspected that there had to be more to me than this body.

Faith

Rich journey to freedom!

Hendrik

The benefits of everything with regard to Meditation exceeded my expectation. It exposes me to a very different world of unknown peace and calm...

Aaron

In a world full of chaos and uncertainty, this School is a beacon showing me light and direction on my path.

Kotie

I have grown as a person from absolute chaos to blissful happiness and peace. I found that I've become more attentive and aware, enjoying every moment and appreciating the small things. I've started to discover my self-worth and my goals in life.