In this passage we get a rare definition of "philosophy" which is the "matter of freely entertaining the most intense eros, the most intense desire imaginable."

Then, in the very next paragraph we see a tension between indulging the "most intense" erotic desire with the possibility of becoming a "perpetual scratcher, defecator, or catamite" What is a catamite? And why would engaging in "philosophy" too often cause one to become one?

We may never understand the argument BAP is making when he connects "Philosophy" with "Catamites" but perhaps he gives us a clue when he says the "beauty" of "[well bred] athenian youth" are a "prerequisite" for turning men into "Philosophers." Truly a fascinating book.

@jmrphy can you fact check this please

@HowlingCoal Do you agree with his overall thesis? And why has had expressed homophobic and libertine remarks if this is what he truly believes?