Chautauqua and Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance
Week 6 | M, Tu, W, Th | Turner 103 | Ages 14+
In his masterful, modern philosophical work Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance, Pirsig cites “a Chautauqua” capable of deep, rather than broad, inquiry, as his preferred mode of discourse. In this class, students will engage with key Pirsig ideas leading to his novel/memoir Metaphysics of Quality, often compared to Moby Dick, and the new philosophical contributions within. Students will read, discuss, and perhaps engage in some difficult concepts of our own. Students should read the book and its sequel, Lila, before attending.
Hugh Butler
Established software development firm which became Computer Consultants Corporation, sold to Fortune 500 Financial Services firm in 2004; retired in 2007 to move to Chautauqua. Serving 1995-present as trustee of mutual fund based in San Francisco. Active volunteer at Chautauqua and in surrounding county. Current director of Chautauqua County Land Bank; chair of “Executives of Chautauqua.” Former trustee of Chautauqua Institution.
