“In the following few lines, I shall attempt to provide a glimpse of the kernel of my philosophical endeavours and adventures. Philosophy started out as a way of life in the ancient world. This is what it should be, perhaps now more than ever given the turning point the world appears to have reached at many levels. An understanding of the contemporary scientific view contributes much to that end as science has produced results and discoveries full of surprises and real metaphysical potential. Direct interaction with intangibles, whether through the contemplation of nature, artistic skill, romance, or deep friendship, is also essential for a life well and properly lived, and for a proper grounding in philosophy and the act of philosophizing. As one acquires philosophical mastery in the most fundamental and general sense, one is able to experience the fullness of each moment in time and one leaves behind the obsession with filling time, as though it were a burdensome empty vessel the sooner filled the better. Philosophical arguments are means to an end, not ends in themselves as academic philosophers are mostly led to believe. They are designed for people in advanced civilizations, whether like ancient Athens and India or modern Europe and the United States, who are otherwise unable to experience Reality in Its radiance. To understand Plato and Aristotle otherwise, for instance, is to miss their point entirely, although with Aristotle, the central Awakening is intermingled with wide-ranging and highly organized knowledge in many different fields, all of which are oriented toward the Center with great subtlety and power.”
—Richard K. Khuri
Biography
Richard K. Khuri (May 29, 1955 – November 5, 2021) was a philosopher, educator, and writer who sought to restore philosophy as a way of life. His work bridged Eastern and Western traditions, emphasizing direct engagement with beauty, nature, and contemplative practice.
For Khuri, philosophical arguments were tools to help people encounter reality, not ends in themselves. He believed philosophy must serve life, not merely academic discourse.
Philosophical Themes
Khuri’s work explored several interconnected themes:
- Philosophy as a Way of Life: Following the ancient tradition, he viewed philosophy not as an academic discipline but as a transformative practice
- The Integration of Science and Contemplation: He saw contemporary scientific discoveries as having profound metaphysical implications
- Time and Presence: His work examined the nature of temporal experience and the possibility of experiencing “the fullness of each moment”
- Beauty and Transcendence: He emphasized the role of aesthetic experience in philosophical understanding
- Cross-cultural Philosophy: His writings engaged with both Eastern (Daoist, Sufi) and Western philosophical traditions
About This Archive
This archive preserves Richard K. Khuri’s philosophical works, personal journals, and creative materials.