About This Site
I have often thought about starting a substantive personal website over the last few years. Though it may prove too absorbing, this site is my attempt at starting the process, and hopefully continuing it. Moreover, upon the completion of my graduate degree in 2008, I no longer have an excuse to neglect my interests and thoughts as they relate to our ever changing and multidimensional world on the forum of the web. Thus, this “blog” is my attempt to offer my musings—however developed or amorphous they may be—on philosophy, theology, politics, ethics, aesthetics, music, books, and movies (I love movies!). That being said, don’t worry if you think these topics are too pretentious, I’ll throw some fun stuff in for those who think they aren’t interested in such things.
The title, “Novum Miscellanium,” is a commensurate attempt at the style and substance of the “Miscellanies” of the philosophical theologian, Jonathan Edwards (1703-1758). As one of my heroes, I’ve taken the liberty to address my blog as the “New Miscellanies,” though it is evident that this blog will never come close to the philosophical and theological aptitude of Jonathan Edwards (hereto referred to as JE), whose works, which are published by Yale University, number 27 large volumes. But be that as it may, Novum Miscellanium is the title I am choosing to go with. As JE thought it careful to document his musings in his Miscellanies, I’m now following suit.
Another important point about JE’s Miscellanies was that they were intended to be helpful for both him and those New Englanders he so often addressed. Yet on the other hand, the Miscellanies served a much greater function, namely, the function of discussing or musing over any matter that was thought to be significant in this life. Though all musings don’t need to be expressly philosophical or theological, they nonetheless have their being in these two complementary realms. What this means is simply that these musing are not meant to be desultory in any way, shape, or form, but to be important enough to read—and taking the time to read something which is particularly worthy is becoming a valuable asset in this world. The problem presents itself with this general observation: Most of the excremental content on the internet is simply not worth reading.
Therefore, the Novum Miscellanium is my attempt to undertake what JE started, and to continue his view of the importance of contemplating and critiquing culture. In addition to that, I want to have a little fun as well. Life is a story, and I want to try and tell my own story. For my friends and family, and those who are interested in my interests, this blog will help with my story.