Mary Tilson
Mary Tilson
#49: The Sober Philosopher, Peg O'Connor, Ph.D on "Higher and Friendlier Powers"
#49: The Sober Philosopher, Peg O'Connor, Ph.D on "Higher and Friendlier Powers"
#49: The Sober Philosopher, Peg O'Connor, Ph.D on "Higher and Friendlier Powers"
Monday 6th March 2023
Philosopher Peg O'Connor, Ph.D., discusses how philosophy supports sobriety, friendship's role, and finding joy in difficult times on Sun & Moon Sober Living Podcast.
66 minutes
Inspiring
Informative
Hopeful
Encouraging
Thought-provoking
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Mary Tilson
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Sobriety Toolkit
Creative Recovery Journeys
Sexual Empowerment & Identity
Innovative Treatments & Recovery Paths
Recovery from Trauma
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Get the buttons here!Philosophy and Sobriety: Peg O'Connor's Unique Take on Recovery
For me, I know, a good life doesn't include alcohol or drugs, it just doesn't. Higher and friendlier powers- was that concept of higher power. I could not square myself with that sense of a higher power.
Ever wondered how philosophy could help you stay sober? In this episode of the Sun & Moon Sober Living Podcast, Peg O'Connor, Ph.D., a Professor of Philosophy and addiction studies, dives into the fascinating connection between philosophical thought and sobriety. Peg's journey is anything but conventional. As a college sophomore, she almost drank herself to death, but it wasn't until she embraced philosophy that she found a sustainable path to sobriety.
Avoiding Alcoholics Anonymous for the first 20 years of her recovery, Peg turned to the wisdom of great thinkers to illuminate her way out of addiction. Peg talks about 'higher and friendlier powers', a concept that offers an alternative to the traditional higher power often mentioned in recovery circles. Drawing inspiration from William James, Peg explains how glimpses of our better selves can serve as a guiding force.
She also delves into the role of friendship and community in staying sober, stressing how these relationships can be a lifeline in tough times. One of the most compelling parts of the episode is Peg's take on joy and suffering. She shares how even in our darkest moments, we can find sparks of joy that make life worth living.
Peg challenges the rock-bottom approach to recovery, advocating instead for building 'recovery capital'—the resources and strengths we accumulate over time that help us stay sober. For anyone struggling with addiction or curious about the intersection of philosophy and recovery, this episode offers a refreshing perspective. Peg's insights are not just theoretical; they are grounded in her own lived experience and practical advice. Tune in to discover how philosophy can be a powerful tool in your journey to sobriety.