“Examined Life” is a documentary that explores the ideas of some of today’s most influential philosophers by taking them out of the classroom and onto the streets. The film follows a series of unique excursions where philosophers explore places that hold particular resonance for their ideas.
The documentary features renowned philosophers such as Peter Singer, Michael Hardt, Judith Butler, and Cornel West. Each of them is given the opportunity to discuss their ideas in a unique setting that amplifies their message. For example, Singer’s thoughts on the ethics of consumption are presented against the backdrop of Fifth Avenue’s posh boutiques, while Michael Hardt ponders the nature of revolution while surrounded by symbols of wealth and leisure.
The film also delves into the personal lives of the philosophers, giving viewers a glimpse into the human side of their ideas. Judith Butler and a friend stroll through San Francisco’s Mission District, questioning our culture’s fixation on individualism, and while driving through Manhattan, Cornel West compares philosophy to jazz and blues, reminding us how intense and invigorating a life of the mind can be.
What sets “Examined Life” apart from other documentaries about philosophy is its accessibility. The film is not filled with academic jargon or abstract concepts but is presented in a way that anyone can understand. This approach makes the film accessible to a wider audience and helps to demystify philosophy as an esoteric field of study.
Overall, “Examined Life” is a well-crafted and thought-provoking documentary that presents philosophy in a way that is engaging and accessible to a wider audience. By taking philosophy out of the classroom and into the streets, the film shows how philosophical ideas can be applied to everyday life and how they can transform the way we see the world around us.
