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Jacks White Oak Seminar Virtue The Supernatural 241005
At the heart of Jack's seminar held in the ornate Latin Classroom at the Spender Arts and Wellness Center, philosophical discourse unravels centered on classical virtues and their interplay with the supernatural realm. The aged room, bathed in the ethereal glow of stained glass, sets a somber yet curious atmosphere as Jack queries his students on the distinct philosophies of Stoic and Aristotelian virtue. Brian, with eagerness, delineates the core differences—highlighting Stoicism's focus on self-control and Aristotelian's emphasis on societal influence and leadership. Unexpected arrival, Aristotle, among others including Viktorin, Jodie, and Syl, navigates through these philosophical territories, adding layers of thought on virtue, power, and corruption. The seminar morphs into a rich dialogue exploring the essence of supernatural corruption, described emphatically by Jodie as a pursuit of power at the expense of another's suffering, a notion universally resonating among the attendees.
As the discussion deepens, students and non-students alike, including Aristotle, who had observed quietly, participate, offering insights into the nature of corruption—whether stemming from a betrayal of societal roles or as a fundamental aspect of supernatural existence that contrasts starkly with humanity. The dialogue culminates in a poignant question from Aristotle regarding the seemingly inherent path to corruption through the pursuit of knowledge and power, suggesting a predestined flaw in human nature that might indeed "rig the game" against purity and virtue. Jack, acknowledging the gravity of the thought, offers a reflective stance on divinity and the paradoxes within our moral and ethical constructs. His final note casts a shadow of contemplation over the class—musing on the potential manipulative essence of a divinely orchestrated path to virtue. As the seminar concludes, the students, amidst a mix of awakening and contemplation, gather their thoughts and belongings, leaving the classroom abuzz with the residues of philosophical debate and existential inquiry.
(Jack's [White Oak] Seminar: Virtue & the Supernatural)
[Fri Oct 4 2024]
In the Latin Classroom of the Spender Arts and Wellness Center at White Oak
Aged, leather-bound tomes and meticulously annotated manuscripts line the sturdy, oak bookshelves. The soft, filtered sunlight seeps through the stained glass windows, casting a colorful, ethereal glow that dances across the weathered, wooden desks and the intricate, Latin inscriptions adorning the walls. The faint scent of antiquity lingers in the air and the distant murmur of students poring over ancient texts can just barely be heard in the distance.
It is about 65F(18C) degrees.
Jack looks at the clock. "Well then," he says. "This seminar will be on time -- an hour, no more," he says. "But I know that not all students can make my evening classes, so I wanted to hold something during the day." He pauses. "As a review, we discussed in our Clsssical Philosophy course two kinds of classical virtue -- Stoic virtue and Aristotelian virtue. Does anyone know the difference between those two sorts of virtue?" he asks, glancing at Viktorin as he speaks before he takes in the class generally.
Oh God. Comes to Jodie's face as classical philosophy is mentioned and then followed up on. She's already white, but somehow the color seems to drain from her anyways and when the question is posed to the class. She sinks further in her seat to avoid being called upon.
Brian raises his hand. "There are quite a few differences, sir. But stoics believe in developing self-control and removing bias from your thoughts. Aristotelians believe focus on deduction and external study, and believe that happiness can be linked to money and objects, while the stoics believe happiness is a choice that can be made regardless of how rich or poor one might be."
Aristotle steps into the room, moving quietly so as to not cause too much of a disruption. He moseys over towards a nearby seat to claim a spot for himself.
"I've sadly not read much of Aristotle's works," Viktorin hums softly, "But often, some of the things he says, and what Plato says, are quite similar to some Stoic beliefs. However, that cannot be prescribed to all of their teachings I fear. I do know that Stoics pride themselves on self-control, the ability to not succumb to emotion or vices, being stalwart, disciplined, etctera."
"I'm not going to call on you, Miss Moore. Don't worry," Jack says. "I know virtue isn't exactly your wheelhouse." He looks around the class, nodding to Brian. "That's more or less right. For the Stoics, virtue is about one's self entirely. One is virtuous when one's self is generous, or courageous, or acts in moderation," he says. "Aristotle, in contrast, preaches the same sorts of virtues generally, but they act upon society. The ascetic practices Stoic virtue, and he can do it alone. For Aristotle, the most virtuous must neccessarily be leaders, because virtue is partly in how one affects the people around them." When Aristotle -- the one from Haven, not Stagira -- comes in, he nods to him in greeting.
Ash comes in late, huffing, and bowing their head to Jack in apology without speaking up. They slide into a desk near Jodie, motioning for their guest to sit on their other side.
Isaiah, meanwhile, seems to believe she has arrived neither late, nor early, but instead precisely when she meant to as she struts along behind Ash, all of the confident in the world as her long ginger curls bounce around her petite form with every step. Jack even manages to peel a polite smile of greeting out of her in passing, her fingers twiddled in his direction, though she doesn't seem to be intentionally being rude or disruptive; it appears her personality is simply bubbly that way. The androgyne joins Jodie and, after a moment of glancing around the classroom, she joins them too, having a seat alongside them before ticking her eyes towards Aristotle. A smile, a wave, and then her attention befalls Jack once more.
"We were just catching ourselves up about the difference between Stoic virtue and Aristotelian virtue," Jack tells Ash and Syl and Syl, obviously displeased that they arrived late. In general, the priest seems to be in a rather foul mood. "In short -- the Stoics say that virtue is a thing about a man's relationship with himself. Aristotle says that virtue is about a man's relationship with those around him. Any questions about that difference before we think about what it means for the demimonde we dwell in?" he asks.
Jodie has slouched in her seat and folded her arms. She's hardly participating in the class except for her attendance. When Ash sits beside her she upnods and gives a brief smile and then when Isaiah soon follows, she gives a more casual nod to them too.
Syl takes a seat.
Ash gives Jodie a smile, then another to Syl before focusing on Jack. They shake their head, looking a bit proud to not have any questions, this time.
It isn't difficult to spot the 'late' entries to the class, and in doing so Aristotle offers waves in response to the one he's given from Isaiah, paired with a smile in kind. His eyes set back to Jack for a moment, brow furrowing as he listens to him speak, as though mildly perplexed by something.
"Well, then. Now that we've defined the territory -- someone tell me what they believe corruption is?" Jack asks. "I mean corruption in the supernatural sense," he says. "What does it mean?"
Viktorin quirks an eyebrow, before wondering, "Marcus Aurelius, one of the five -good- Emperors of Rome practiced stoicism... surely ascetics aren't the only ones who can practice stoicism."
Jodie perks up a little, maybe she actually understands this concept and for a moment she might actually volunteer and answer. But she neglects to actually speak up once she realizes how many people are around her.
Ash raises a hand slowly, looking unsure, glancing around to see if anyone else will.
Jack looks at Syl. "Miss Pevek, if you can't set aside your phone for forty-five minutes perhaps we'll need to have a conversation about addiction. It's not just drugs that rot one's mind." He looks over at Viktorin. "He did, Mr. Teptic, though I'd argue that he lived much more the virtuous life the Philosopher imagined than true stoicism. Still. The question," he says. "Anyone prepared to offer their thoughts on Corruption?" He smiles. "Ah, Miss Starling. Always the eager beaver."
Nico slips in the back, taking a seat near the edge of the middle row, just observing.
It is not Isaiah's class- she is not a student, only a quiet observer in this- and yet her hand jolts up at the question posed by Jack, only to hesitantly lower it back down when Ash's hand raises instead. It seesm she's willing to leave this to the students, and so instead she leans back in her chair, eyes back to the defrocked priest.
"Ah. Corruption, the loss of humanity, the concessions to the internal beast," Viktorin huffs and exhales. "The eternal grasping for power that degrades the soul."
Syl takes the rebuke, like a cat pet backward. She quietly huffs to herself from her place in the middle seats and then moves her phone to her lap where it might be harder for Jack to see.
Ash smiles to Jack softly, before drawling, "I'm not too sure on this one - most of the time, when people speak on it, there's one bias or another. But... in my experience? I *think* it's about stepping away from humanity - as Viktorin said. And in regards to virtue, it likely decreases the desire to pursue it. Though, I'd wonder if one might be fooled into thinking that they are a stoic while corrupted with power, as they forget what the definition of virtue is in regards to humanity. Courage for their own goals, false wisdom buoyed by arrogance, a shift in goalposts in what constitutes as moderation, and justice only for their goals... rather than improving these qualities in the self."
"That's not a bad thought. This isn't a question with a clear answer," Jack tells Ash. "So let's get some other thoughts. Miss Moore? Miss Pevek?" he says, calling on Jodie and Syl in turn. "Do you have thoughts on what supernatural corruption is?" he asks, before he nods to Isaiah. "I see you, miss," he says, clearly not knowing her name. "I don't mind you auditing, and if you want to express a thought after the students I'm sure it would be appreciated."
"Uh well supernatural corrupt is really just the whole idea of being a bad person to get power. But in a very real way." Jodie says to Jack after she was given plenty of time to think it over thanks to Ash going first. "Supernaturals can feed on people's pain and suffering psychically, which empowers them and nourishes them and the more powerful they get, the more they do this with any strong emotion. Like fuckin- I mean sex."
"Miss Moore," Jack tells Jodie. "Speak up so everyone can hear you. Also, language."
Jodie clears her throat and tries again "Uh well supernatural corrupt is really just the whole idea of being a bad person to get power. But in a very real way." Jodie says to Jack after she was given plenty of time to think it over thanks to someone going first. "Supernaturals can feed on people's pain and suffering psychically, which empowers them and nourishes them and the more powerful they get, the more they do this with any strong emotion. Like having sex, they will feed on the weaker partner just by doing it."
Jodie clears her throat and tries again "Uh well supernatural corrupt is really just the whole idea of being a bad person to get power. But in a very real way." Jodie says to Jack after she was given plenty of time to think it over thanks to someone going first. "Supernaturals can feed on people's pain and suffering psychically, which empowers them and nourishes them and the more powerful they get, the more they do this with any strong emotion. Like having sex, they will feed on the weaker partner just by doing it."
Syl shakes her head in answer to Jack's question, denying the presence of thoughts.
Jodie clears her throat and tries again "Uh well supernatural corrupt is really just the whole idea of being a bad person to get power. But in a very real way." Jodie says to Jack after she was given plenty of time to think it over thanks to Ash going first. "Supernaturals can feed on people's pain and suffering psychically, which empowers them and nourishes them and the more powerful they get, the more they do this with any strong emotion. Like having sex, they will feed on the weaker partner just by doing it."
"Miss Pevek," Jack tells Syl. "Participation isn't optional." He looks at her, drawing all of the class' attention to her. "What do you think supernatural corruption is?" he says, shaking his head at as Ash and the tomboy zonk out.
Jodie notices that both girls on her flanks have passed out and she can't help but chuckle at this.
Viktorin cocks an eyebrow as the two folk pass out, wrinkling his nose a little. "Mmph," is all he comments upon this occurrence before returning his attention to Jack.
Syl shifts in her seat, noticing the attention landing on her. "I think of corruption in the context of government and its always about processes as they are meant to be, subverted. So when I think of corruption in the supernatural I don't think individual but organizational. Say, a fledgling, not being kept in line, if there were vampires, because of some attachment. That sort of thing. I don't think its what you're going for."
Brian raises his hand. "In relation to the question on the board, sir, I think corruption, at the individual level, would be more likely to eat at Aristotelian virtue, because treating others well becomes more of a challenge when you begin to see them as food, or as things that could be easily killed or otherwise dealt with if they bother you."
"It isn't," Jack tells Syl. "But it is a good insight." He pauses. "As I said -- there's not a right answer here, but corruption is the thing that means that as we gain power in the supernatural world, we do so by hurting others. As Miss Moore said, supernaturals feed from others -- from their emotions, fundamentally, but not the positive ones. They feed of their fear," he says. "Their lust, as Miss Moore seems to be trying to court with those shorts. "Our panic and our pain. That is the font of power, and at a certain point the supernatural need it to survive." He pauses. "Virtue, of course, is the opposite of corruption. What model of virtue do you think resists that kind of corruption more? Stoic virtue or Aristotelian virtue? Mr. Miller is already honing in on his thoughts." He nods to Brian. "I think that's good insight as to what corruption does -- but doesn't practicing Aristotle's virtue also leave you more vulnerable to temptation?""
"As I see it, yes. Because when your definition of virtue is pointed outwards, the reward you from virtuous behavior will be influenced by the response you get from others. So if you doing something... like taking drugs, or feeding on someone, or murdering someone, would please the people around you and show that you are 'one of them', it would be tempting, in the Aristotelian sense." Brian says.
The priest nods to Brian. "Anyone else have a thought on this topic?" he asks. "Mr. Teptic?" Jack says, calling on Viktorin.
Aristotle continues watching the discussion quietly, eyes shifting towards those who speak in turn. He does not partake - at least not yet, anyway, opting to learn instead by audit.
"Half and half," Viktorin answers smoothly. "The recognition of one's relations with others along with moderation, self-control. You can be stoic and merely see a moderation of feeding off of others as appropriate, you can be Aristotelian and see your rightful place as the monstrous guide of humanity, protecting your 'flock'. And tis not only the supernatural children and descendants who can corrupt themselves but anyone and everyone can, which is a point I want to make."
Viktorin says "Even the most mundane human can."
Brian looks at Viktorin as he speaks, his expression thoughtful.
"It is,"@me tells Viktorin. "Supernaturals don't have a monopoly on evil," he says. "But at a certain point the supernatural requires it to survive," he says. He nods. "I've taught seminars before on the origin of corruption, and we don't really have the answer," he says. "But I can tell you it is hard to resist. Power is tempting," he says. "I think there is a kind of paradox, personally: I think Aristotle is right that no one can be truly virtuous without interacting with society. Without being a leader," he says. "But I think Zeno and Marcus Aurelius provide the best prescription for the unnatural being that wishes to resist the desire to prey on others."
Brian says "Apologies, sir."
Viktorin easily concedes to Jack, "I agree with such, after a certain point, one must become supernatural somehow, to fall completely to the monster within ourselves"
Jack nods to Viktorin, glancing back at the clock. "We're about at the end of our hour," he says. "Anyone have any last thoughts? Questions?" he says. "I usually like to linger after class for discussion, but I'm afraid I have to take a call."
"I have a question." Aristotle says, lifting his hand to prompt Jack's attention.
Then, a beat later, Aristotle seems to dismiss his own thoughts. "Actually, nevermind. No questions here."
Viktorin peers inquisitively at Aristotle.
"No, Mr. Wilson. Please -- ask your question," Jack says to Aristotle.
Syl looks to Aristotle as she listens for his question.
Aristotle seems to contemplate for a moment when he's encouraged by Jack, and he relents with, "Well, about corruption. Maybe my perception of it is a little wonky, I bet, but in terms of religion, I wanted to know what your thoughts were on it." Aristotle says. "I mean, it's in a person's nature to want to seek knowledge. And we all know knowledge is power, and thus, power is corruption. And we're naturally inclined to seek more knowledge... or at least be swayed to do so if you consider the fall of man. So, with that connection, maybe, aren't we all kinda doomed to begin with?" He wonders. And then adds, "And if the answer to this kind of damnation is God, then... isn't that kind of manipulative?"
For a moment, the priest looks at Aristotle. "I think you are not wrong, Mr. Wilson. It does seem as if the game is rigged." He pauses. "If God is a watchmaker, it's as if his assistant set some tiny flaw in the mechanism of the world, so that with each tick it grows harder and harder to keep time." A beat. "A sobering thought. With that," Jack says. "Class dismissed."
Brian puts his stuff away. "Thanks, Professor."
Jodie is still sitting between two sleeping women who passed out half way through class. She also almost passed out but for other reasons. When class is called she perks up a bit and looks around
Syl rises from her place among the middle seats, her clothing whispering against itself as she does with a subtle shshshs. She gives a polite not to Jack as she walks by him on her way to the door.
Nico lets out a quiet 'huh', stretching out as he rises to his feet.
Jack corrects Brian absently, "Father." He pauses. Then, with a look among the students, he steps into the office.
As the discussion deepens, students and non-students alike, including Aristotle, who had observed quietly, participate, offering insights into the nature of corruption—whether stemming from a betrayal of societal roles or as a fundamental aspect of supernatural existence that contrasts starkly with humanity. The dialogue culminates in a poignant question from Aristotle regarding the seemingly inherent path to corruption through the pursuit of knowledge and power, suggesting a predestined flaw in human nature that might indeed "rig the game" against purity and virtue. Jack, acknowledging the gravity of the thought, offers a reflective stance on divinity and the paradoxes within our moral and ethical constructs. His final note casts a shadow of contemplation over the class—musing on the potential manipulative essence of a divinely orchestrated path to virtue. As the seminar concludes, the students, amidst a mix of awakening and contemplation, gather their thoughts and belongings, leaving the classroom abuzz with the residues of philosophical debate and existential inquiry.
(Jack's [White Oak] Seminar: Virtue & the Supernatural)
[Fri Oct 4 2024]
In the Latin Classroom of the Spender Arts and Wellness Center at White Oak
Aged, leather-bound tomes and meticulously annotated manuscripts line the sturdy, oak bookshelves. The soft, filtered sunlight seeps through the stained glass windows, casting a colorful, ethereal glow that dances across the weathered, wooden desks and the intricate, Latin inscriptions adorning the walls. The faint scent of antiquity lingers in the air and the distant murmur of students poring over ancient texts can just barely be heard in the distance.
It is about 65F(18C) degrees.
Jack looks at the clock. "Well then," he says. "This seminar will be on time -- an hour, no more," he says. "But I know that not all students can make my evening classes, so I wanted to hold something during the day." He pauses. "As a review, we discussed in our Clsssical Philosophy course two kinds of classical virtue -- Stoic virtue and Aristotelian virtue. Does anyone know the difference between those two sorts of virtue?" he asks, glancing at Viktorin as he speaks before he takes in the class generally.
Oh God. Comes to Jodie's face as classical philosophy is mentioned and then followed up on. She's already white, but somehow the color seems to drain from her anyways and when the question is posed to the class. She sinks further in her seat to avoid being called upon.
Brian raises his hand. "There are quite a few differences, sir. But stoics believe in developing self-control and removing bias from your thoughts. Aristotelians believe focus on deduction and external study, and believe that happiness can be linked to money and objects, while the stoics believe happiness is a choice that can be made regardless of how rich or poor one might be."
Aristotle steps into the room, moving quietly so as to not cause too much of a disruption. He moseys over towards a nearby seat to claim a spot for himself.
"I've sadly not read much of Aristotle's works," Viktorin hums softly, "But often, some of the things he says, and what Plato says, are quite similar to some Stoic beliefs. However, that cannot be prescribed to all of their teachings I fear. I do know that Stoics pride themselves on self-control, the ability to not succumb to emotion or vices, being stalwart, disciplined, etctera."
"I'm not going to call on you, Miss Moore. Don't worry," Jack says. "I know virtue isn't exactly your wheelhouse." He looks around the class, nodding to Brian. "That's more or less right. For the Stoics, virtue is about one's self entirely. One is virtuous when one's self is generous, or courageous, or acts in moderation," he says. "Aristotle, in contrast, preaches the same sorts of virtues generally, but they act upon society. The ascetic practices Stoic virtue, and he can do it alone. For Aristotle, the most virtuous must neccessarily be leaders, because virtue is partly in how one affects the people around them." When Aristotle -- the one from Haven, not Stagira -- comes in, he nods to him in greeting.
Ash comes in late, huffing, and bowing their head to Jack in apology without speaking up. They slide into a desk near Jodie, motioning for their guest to sit on their other side.
Isaiah, meanwhile, seems to believe she has arrived neither late, nor early, but instead precisely when she meant to as she struts along behind Ash, all of the confident in the world as her long ginger curls bounce around her petite form with every step. Jack even manages to peel a polite smile of greeting out of her in passing, her fingers twiddled in his direction, though she doesn't seem to be intentionally being rude or disruptive; it appears her personality is simply bubbly that way. The androgyne joins Jodie and, after a moment of glancing around the classroom, she joins them too, having a seat alongside them before ticking her eyes towards Aristotle. A smile, a wave, and then her attention befalls Jack once more.
"We were just catching ourselves up about the difference between Stoic virtue and Aristotelian virtue," Jack tells Ash and Syl and Syl, obviously displeased that they arrived late. In general, the priest seems to be in a rather foul mood. "In short -- the Stoics say that virtue is a thing about a man's relationship with himself. Aristotle says that virtue is about a man's relationship with those around him. Any questions about that difference before we think about what it means for the demimonde we dwell in?" he asks.
Jodie has slouched in her seat and folded her arms. She's hardly participating in the class except for her attendance. When Ash sits beside her she upnods and gives a brief smile and then when Isaiah soon follows, she gives a more casual nod to them too.
Syl takes a seat.
Ash gives Jodie a smile, then another to Syl before focusing on Jack. They shake their head, looking a bit proud to not have any questions, this time.
It isn't difficult to spot the 'late' entries to the class, and in doing so Aristotle offers waves in response to the one he's given from Isaiah, paired with a smile in kind. His eyes set back to Jack for a moment, brow furrowing as he listens to him speak, as though mildly perplexed by something.
"Well, then. Now that we've defined the territory -- someone tell me what they believe corruption is?" Jack asks. "I mean corruption in the supernatural sense," he says. "What does it mean?"
Viktorin quirks an eyebrow, before wondering, "Marcus Aurelius, one of the five -good- Emperors of Rome practiced stoicism... surely ascetics aren't the only ones who can practice stoicism."
Jodie perks up a little, maybe she actually understands this concept and for a moment she might actually volunteer and answer. But she neglects to actually speak up once she realizes how many people are around her.
Ash raises a hand slowly, looking unsure, glancing around to see if anyone else will.
Jack looks at Syl. "Miss Pevek, if you can't set aside your phone for forty-five minutes perhaps we'll need to have a conversation about addiction. It's not just drugs that rot one's mind." He looks over at Viktorin. "He did, Mr. Teptic, though I'd argue that he lived much more the virtuous life the Philosopher imagined than true stoicism. Still. The question," he says. "Anyone prepared to offer their thoughts on Corruption?" He smiles. "Ah, Miss Starling. Always the eager beaver."
Nico slips in the back, taking a seat near the edge of the middle row, just observing.
It is not Isaiah's class- she is not a student, only a quiet observer in this- and yet her hand jolts up at the question posed by Jack, only to hesitantly lower it back down when Ash's hand raises instead. It seesm she's willing to leave this to the students, and so instead she leans back in her chair, eyes back to the defrocked priest.
"Ah. Corruption, the loss of humanity, the concessions to the internal beast," Viktorin huffs and exhales. "The eternal grasping for power that degrades the soul."
Syl takes the rebuke, like a cat pet backward. She quietly huffs to herself from her place in the middle seats and then moves her phone to her lap where it might be harder for Jack to see.
Ash smiles to Jack softly, before drawling, "I'm not too sure on this one - most of the time, when people speak on it, there's one bias or another. But... in my experience? I *think* it's about stepping away from humanity - as Viktorin said. And in regards to virtue, it likely decreases the desire to pursue it. Though, I'd wonder if one might be fooled into thinking that they are a stoic while corrupted with power, as they forget what the definition of virtue is in regards to humanity. Courage for their own goals, false wisdom buoyed by arrogance, a shift in goalposts in what constitutes as moderation, and justice only for their goals... rather than improving these qualities in the self."
"That's not a bad thought. This isn't a question with a clear answer," Jack tells Ash. "So let's get some other thoughts. Miss Moore? Miss Pevek?" he says, calling on Jodie and Syl in turn. "Do you have thoughts on what supernatural corruption is?" he asks, before he nods to Isaiah. "I see you, miss," he says, clearly not knowing her name. "I don't mind you auditing, and if you want to express a thought after the students I'm sure it would be appreciated."
"Uh well supernatural corrupt is really just the whole idea of being a bad person to get power. But in a very real way." Jodie says to Jack after she was given plenty of time to think it over thanks to Ash going first. "Supernaturals can feed on people's pain and suffering psychically, which empowers them and nourishes them and the more powerful they get, the more they do this with any strong emotion. Like fuckin- I mean sex."
"Miss Moore," Jack tells Jodie. "Speak up so everyone can hear you. Also, language."
Jodie clears her throat and tries again "Uh well supernatural corrupt is really just the whole idea of being a bad person to get power. But in a very real way." Jodie says to Jack after she was given plenty of time to think it over thanks to someone going first. "Supernaturals can feed on people's pain and suffering psychically, which empowers them and nourishes them and the more powerful they get, the more they do this with any strong emotion. Like having sex, they will feed on the weaker partner just by doing it."
Jodie clears her throat and tries again "Uh well supernatural corrupt is really just the whole idea of being a bad person to get power. But in a very real way." Jodie says to Jack after she was given plenty of time to think it over thanks to someone going first. "Supernaturals can feed on people's pain and suffering psychically, which empowers them and nourishes them and the more powerful they get, the more they do this with any strong emotion. Like having sex, they will feed on the weaker partner just by doing it."
Syl shakes her head in answer to Jack's question, denying the presence of thoughts.
Jodie clears her throat and tries again "Uh well supernatural corrupt is really just the whole idea of being a bad person to get power. But in a very real way." Jodie says to Jack after she was given plenty of time to think it over thanks to Ash going first. "Supernaturals can feed on people's pain and suffering psychically, which empowers them and nourishes them and the more powerful they get, the more they do this with any strong emotion. Like having sex, they will feed on the weaker partner just by doing it."
"Miss Pevek," Jack tells Syl. "Participation isn't optional." He looks at her, drawing all of the class' attention to her. "What do you think supernatural corruption is?" he says, shaking his head at as Ash and the tomboy zonk out.
Jodie notices that both girls on her flanks have passed out and she can't help but chuckle at this.
Viktorin cocks an eyebrow as the two folk pass out, wrinkling his nose a little. "Mmph," is all he comments upon this occurrence before returning his attention to Jack.
Syl shifts in her seat, noticing the attention landing on her. "I think of corruption in the context of government and its always about processes as they are meant to be, subverted. So when I think of corruption in the supernatural I don't think individual but organizational. Say, a fledgling, not being kept in line, if there were vampires, because of some attachment. That sort of thing. I don't think its what you're going for."
Brian raises his hand. "In relation to the question on the board, sir, I think corruption, at the individual level, would be more likely to eat at Aristotelian virtue, because treating others well becomes more of a challenge when you begin to see them as food, or as things that could be easily killed or otherwise dealt with if they bother you."
"It isn't," Jack tells Syl. "But it is a good insight." He pauses. "As I said -- there's not a right answer here, but corruption is the thing that means that as we gain power in the supernatural world, we do so by hurting others. As Miss Moore said, supernaturals feed from others -- from their emotions, fundamentally, but not the positive ones. They feed of their fear," he says. "Their lust, as Miss Moore seems to be trying to court with those shorts. "Our panic and our pain. That is the font of power, and at a certain point the supernatural need it to survive." He pauses. "Virtue, of course, is the opposite of corruption. What model of virtue do you think resists that kind of corruption more? Stoic virtue or Aristotelian virtue? Mr. Miller is already honing in on his thoughts." He nods to Brian. "I think that's good insight as to what corruption does -- but doesn't practicing Aristotle's virtue also leave you more vulnerable to temptation?""
"As I see it, yes. Because when your definition of virtue is pointed outwards, the reward you from virtuous behavior will be influenced by the response you get from others. So if you doing something... like taking drugs, or feeding on someone, or murdering someone, would please the people around you and show that you are 'one of them', it would be tempting, in the Aristotelian sense." Brian says.
The priest nods to Brian. "Anyone else have a thought on this topic?" he asks. "Mr. Teptic?" Jack says, calling on Viktorin.
Aristotle continues watching the discussion quietly, eyes shifting towards those who speak in turn. He does not partake - at least not yet, anyway, opting to learn instead by audit.
"Half and half," Viktorin answers smoothly. "The recognition of one's relations with others along with moderation, self-control. You can be stoic and merely see a moderation of feeding off of others as appropriate, you can be Aristotelian and see your rightful place as the monstrous guide of humanity, protecting your 'flock'. And tis not only the supernatural children and descendants who can corrupt themselves but anyone and everyone can, which is a point I want to make."
Viktorin says "Even the most mundane human can."
Brian looks at Viktorin as he speaks, his expression thoughtful.
"It is,"@me tells Viktorin. "Supernaturals don't have a monopoly on evil," he says. "But at a certain point the supernatural requires it to survive," he says. He nods. "I've taught seminars before on the origin of corruption, and we don't really have the answer," he says. "But I can tell you it is hard to resist. Power is tempting," he says. "I think there is a kind of paradox, personally: I think Aristotle is right that no one can be truly virtuous without interacting with society. Without being a leader," he says. "But I think Zeno and Marcus Aurelius provide the best prescription for the unnatural being that wishes to resist the desire to prey on others."
Brian says "Apologies, sir."
Viktorin easily concedes to Jack, "I agree with such, after a certain point, one must become supernatural somehow, to fall completely to the monster within ourselves"
Jack nods to Viktorin, glancing back at the clock. "We're about at the end of our hour," he says. "Anyone have any last thoughts? Questions?" he says. "I usually like to linger after class for discussion, but I'm afraid I have to take a call."
"I have a question." Aristotle says, lifting his hand to prompt Jack's attention.
Then, a beat later, Aristotle seems to dismiss his own thoughts. "Actually, nevermind. No questions here."
Viktorin peers inquisitively at Aristotle.
"No, Mr. Wilson. Please -- ask your question," Jack says to Aristotle.
Syl looks to Aristotle as she listens for his question.
Aristotle seems to contemplate for a moment when he's encouraged by Jack, and he relents with, "Well, about corruption. Maybe my perception of it is a little wonky, I bet, but in terms of religion, I wanted to know what your thoughts were on it." Aristotle says. "I mean, it's in a person's nature to want to seek knowledge. And we all know knowledge is power, and thus, power is corruption. And we're naturally inclined to seek more knowledge... or at least be swayed to do so if you consider the fall of man. So, with that connection, maybe, aren't we all kinda doomed to begin with?" He wonders. And then adds, "And if the answer to this kind of damnation is God, then... isn't that kind of manipulative?"
For a moment, the priest looks at Aristotle. "I think you are not wrong, Mr. Wilson. It does seem as if the game is rigged." He pauses. "If God is a watchmaker, it's as if his assistant set some tiny flaw in the mechanism of the world, so that with each tick it grows harder and harder to keep time." A beat. "A sobering thought. With that," Jack says. "Class dismissed."
Brian puts his stuff away. "Thanks, Professor."
Jodie is still sitting between two sleeping women who passed out half way through class. She also almost passed out but for other reasons. When class is called she perks up a bit and looks around
Syl rises from her place among the middle seats, her clothing whispering against itself as she does with a subtle shshshs. She gives a polite not to Jack as she walks by him on her way to the door.
Nico lets out a quiet 'huh', stretching out as he rises to his feet.
Jack corrects Brian absently, "Father." He pauses. Then, with a look among the students, he steps into the office.