“…for wonder is the feeling of a philosopher, and philosophy begins in wonder.”
Plato, Theaetetus
Welcome
The study of philosophy is more than what takes place in a classroom. For those drawn to exploring basic questions about the human condition, philosophical inquiry offers an open, thoughtful encounter with oneself. Taken with care, this journey can broaden one’s intellectual horizon and rekindle a sense of wonder about being in the world.
What is Dasein?
Dasein is a German word that literally means "being there” or “presence,” but is often translated into English as “existence.” Dasein is a fundamental concept in the early philosophy of Martin Heidegger, particularly in his seminal work of 1927, entitled Being and Time. Heidegger uses the expression Dasein to refer to the experience of being that is peculiar to human beings. Dasein is holistically and deeply involved with its world. As such, it is a form of being that is aware of and must confront such issues as personhood, mortality, and the dilemma or paradox of living in relationship with other humans while being ultimately alone with oneself.
The Mission
An educational resource located in the San Francisco Bay Area since 2006, the aim of Dasein Foundation is to promote contemplative engagement with the world through curated reading projects, small-group retreats, and organized travel opportunities.
Rundweg
Rundweg refers to a circular path or loop road that eventually leads you back to where your journey began. In this spirit, Dasein Foundation invites you to temporarily detach from daily life, leave familiar surroundings, and embark on a rundweg of self-discovery.
Follow the signposts to learn more.
“in my beginning is my end.”