Metafizzics

About Metafizzics

The word "metaphysics" used to refer almost always to a particular branch of philosophy, having to do with the study of the basic nature of reality.  Originally, the word was coined to describe the works of Aristotle that came "after" (meta) his writings on the basic principles of the material world (physics) and seemed to go "beyond" (another sense of the word meta) the principles of materiality to consider in what sense things even exist anyway.         

Nowadays, however, "metaphysics" has also come to have a popular meaning along the lines of "any exploration of ideas that goes beyond the merely physical interpretation of reality."  That takes in a lot of territory, including mysticism, occult studies, paranormal investigation, and much, much more.  Thus when Google produces ads to go along with a web search on metaphysics, what you get is books about angels and UFOs, not books about Aristotle and existentialism.

Metafizzics would like to be somewhere in between these two poles.  Smart but not academic; serious but not tiresome; deep but not unfathomable; and inspirational but not sappy.  Sort of Enlightenment Lite, with equal parts of careful inquiry, wild imagination, and sensory satisfaction. 

Among other things, Metafizzics means to map for you some of the genuine pathways that wind through the cluttered landscape of the web.  These meanders lead to interesting people, exciting ideas, beautiful things, and cool toys.  Opportunities to shop will often be featured, so please keep in mind that when you click here to buy something there (for example, at Amazon), a smidgen of what you spend will come back to help keep Metafizzics fizzing.

Another goal of Metafizzics is to find and deliver new information you might not hear about otherwise, and also to offer different perspectives on the "news" you do hear (and hear and hear) about in the mainstream media.  Along with fizzy posts on current events, look for alternative info-sources on the blogroll.

Blogging is a bit like being an information DJ--so let me know if you have any requests!  And come by often to see what's playing.   

What is Fizzy Shopping?

Fizzy Shopping links feature socially responsible companies that offer products to foster harmony of mind, body, and spirit. 

Here's how Overstock.com describes its special division, Worldstock:  "We locate magnificent items made by craftswomen (and craftsmen) around the world. We emphasize sustainability: choosing items that are environmentally sound, and that don’t burn up the natural or human resources of their producers. We pride ourselves on being honest brokers: we don’t gouge producers with our clout, nor consumers with mark-ups, thereby allowing the artisans to receive an average of 60 - 70 percent of the money you spend in Worldstock. Our goal in Worldstock is not to make money, but to create tens of thousands (and someday millions) of jobs in the poorest regions of the world, while bringing customers unique products of which they can be proud – hand-crafted clothing, jewelry, ceramics, furniture, and much more." 

About Isabella:  "Our purpose is both to educate and to encourage. We sell items that we feel honor the spiritual path of growth and encourage us all to renew our deep inner connections and a true reverence for life."