Philosophy and Craft Beer: A Confluence of Thought and Taste

Craft Beer and Philosophy

In the grand tapestry of human culture, two seemingly disparate threads have woven themselves into the fabric of society with unexpected synergy: philosophy and craft beer. At first glance, the contemplative world of philosophy, with its ancient roots and existential musings, appears worlds apart from the earthy, communal pleasures of craft beer. Yet, upon closer inspection, these two realms share a profound connection, both driven by a deep appreciation for complexity, a quest for authenticity, and an unyielding commitment to quality.

The Philosophical Roots of Craft Beer

Books and Beer

Craft beer, by definition, is a testament to the artisanal ethos, emphasizing small-scale production, traditional methods, and innovative flavors. This approach is inherently philosophical, reflecting a dedication to craftsmanship that echoes the ancient Greek concept of “techne” – a term that encapsulates both art and technology, where the creation process is as valued as the final product. Similarly, philosophy, from its inception, has been an endeavor to understand the essence of being, reality, and the virtues of a well-examined life. Both craft beer and philosophy celebrate the pursuit of excellence and the richness of experience, encouraging individuals to savor complexity and engage deeply with the world around them.

Craftsmanship as a Reflection of Existential Values

At the heart of craft beer culture is a celebration of uniqueness and authenticity, qualities that are deeply resonant with existentialist philosophy. This philosophical movement posits that individuals are free and responsible for infusing their lives with meaning, a notion mirrored in the craft brewer’s quest to create a beer that is not only distinctive but also tells a story. Each batch is a tangible expression of the brewer’s values, creativity, and response to the existential challenge of carving out a niche in a world dominated by mass-produced goods. The craft beer enthusiast, in turn, engages in a kind of existential practice, choosing beers that reflect their personal taste and identity, and thus asserting their individuality in a homogenized world.

The Socratic Method and the Culture of Craft Beer

A craft beer cartoon with a bit of a philosophical bent to it.

Socrates, the classical Greek philosopher, championed the importance of dialogue and inquiry in the pursuit of wisdom. This Socratic method, based on asking and answering questions to stimulate critical thinking, finds a modern parallel in the culture surrounding craft beer. Tasting sessions, beer festivals, and brewpub gatherings are often characterized by lively discussions, not just about the beer itself, but about a wide array of topics, fostering a sense of community and shared inquiry. In these settings, beer enthusiasts and brewers alike engage in a form of dialectic, where the exchange of ideas and the articulation of taste preferences lead to a deeper appreciation of the beverage and each other’s company.

The Pursuit of Authenticity and Meaning

In the contemporary landscape, where the ephemeral often overshadows the enduring, craft beer stands as a bastion of authenticity. This is a concept deeply explored in existential and phenomenological philosophy, which emphasizes the importance of authentic existence and the direct experience of the world. By choosing craft beer, individuals participate in a larger narrative of resisting the commodification of culture and the dilution of personal expression. Each pint is a reminder of the potential to craft meaning in one’s life, to celebrate the idiosyncratic, and to engage fully with the present moment.

Philosophy

Books and Beer

The convergence of philosophy and craft beer is a testament to the human yearning for depth, authenticity, and community. Through the lens of craft beer, we are invited to explore philosophical themes of existence, meaning, and the art of living. As we savor the complexity of a well-crafted brew, we are reminded of the richness of the human experience and the value of a life well examined. In this confluence of thought and taste, philosophy and craft beer emerge not as mere academic or sensory pleasures but as vital expressions of the enduring quest for a fulfilled and authentic existence.

Philosophers have often engaged with the subject of beer and alcohol more broadly, not so much in direct analysis of the beverage itself but rather through the lens of its social, ethical, and existential implications. Their reflections can provide intriguing insights into the human experience, social customs, and the pursuit of happiness. Here are a few philosophical angles on the topic of beer:

The Social Fabric and Communal Bonding

Plato, in his dialogues, often depicted scenes of social gatherings where wine (and by extension, we can consider beer) played a central role in fostering dialogue and camaraderie among participants. While he cautioned against excess, Plato acknowledged the value of such social lubricants in facilitating philosophical discussion and bonding. The communal aspect of beer drinking, where individuals come together to share stories and enjoy each other’s company, echoes this Platonic ideal of communal bonding and intellectual exchange.

Moderation and the Good Life

Aristotle’s concept of the “Golden Mean,” where virtue is found in the balance between excess and deficiency, can be applied to the consumption of beer. From this perspective, beer drinking can be seen as a component of the good life, as long as it is enjoyed in moderation and contributes to, rather than detracts from, one’s overall well-being and fulfillment. Aristotle’s emphasis on moderation aligns with a responsible approach to beer, advocating for its enjoyment in a way that harmonizes with a balanced and ethical lifestyle.

Beer as a Symbol of the Simple Pleasures

Epicurus, the ancient Greek philosopher who advocated for the pursuit of pleasure (in moderation) as the primary goal of life, might have seen beer as embodying the simple, attainable pleasures that contribute to a happy life. For Epicurus, the greatest pleasures were those that satisfied natural and necessary desires, such as the need for food, drink, and friendship. Beer, in its modesty and its role in social settings, could be viewed as a perfect example of an Epicurean pleasure—simple, enjoyable, and conducive to friendship.

Existential Reflections

Existential philosophers like Søren Kierkegaard and Jean-Paul Sartre often explored themes of authenticity, choice, and individuality. While they didn’t specifically focus on beer, their philosophies invite us to consider our choices around beer and alcohol in the context of authentic living. Choosing to drink beer, what type of beer one prefers, and how one engages with the culture of beer drinking can reflect broader existential choices about who we are and how we assert our individuality and authenticity in a world of conforming pressures.

Critique of Consumerism

Finally, contemporary philosophers and social critics might examine beer, especially craft beer, through the lens of consumerism and cultural identity. In a world dominated by mass-produced goods, craft beer stands as a counter-narrative that values quality, locality, and artisanal skill. Philosophers interested in the critique of consumer culture might see the craft beer movement as a form of resistance to globalization and homogenization, representing a desire for authenticity, community, and a more meaningful engagement with the products we consume.

In summary, while philosophers may not often speak directly about beer, the implications of beer drinking touch upon many philosophical themes including moderation, pleasure, community, authenticity, and resistance to consumerism. Beer, in all its simplicity, serves as a rich subject for philosophical inquiry, revealing insights into human nature, society, and the pursuit of a good life.

Quoting Philosophers About Beer

Three Philosophers by Ommegang Brewery

While philosophers have traditionally engaged with questions of existence, ethics, knowledge, and the nature of reality, there are a few instances where they have directly or indirectly touched upon the subject of beer. Their comments on beer often reveal a lighter side, providing a humorous or reflective perspective on this beloved beverage. Here are a few notable quotes:

1. Plato: While not directly about beer, this quote is often humorously adapted to fit the topic: “He was a wise man who invented beer.” The original sentiment reflects the appreciation of inventions and innovations that improve human life, and the adapted quote humorously assigns high value to the creation of beer.
2. Benjamin Franklin: Often mistakenly attributed with saying, “Beer is proof that God loves us and wants us to be happy,” Franklin’s actual quote was about wine. The real quote from a letter written by Franklin to André Morellet in 1779 is: “Behold the rain which descends from heaven upon our vineyards; there it enters the roots of the vines, to be changed into wine; a constant proof that God loves us, and loves to see us happy.” The sentiment, however, is frequently co-opted into the world of beer enthusiasts.
3. Martin Luther: The German theologian and pivotal figure of the Protestant Reformation is quoted as saying, “Whoever drinks beer, he is quick to sleep; whoever sleeps long, does not sin; whoever does not sin, enters Heaven! Thus, let us drink beer!” While the authenticity of this quote is debated, it humorously suggests a virtuous cycle involving beer and moral conduct.
4. Arthur Schopenhauer: The German philosopher, known for his pessimistic philosophy, reportedly had a more light-hearted view on beer, suggesting its social and pleasurable aspects. However, a direct quote about beer specifically is hard to come by.
5. Thomas Aquinas: While not a direct quote about beer, St. Thomas Aquinas, the Italian Dominican friar and philosopher, wrote extensively about moderation and the virtue of temperance. He argued for the moderate use of alcohol, suggesting that it could be used for enjoyment without excess. His philosophy implies a balanced approach to pleasures like beer, valuing them insofar as they contribute to the well-being of the person without leading to intemperance.

More Beer Information and Education Series Articles

• What is Bock Beer? Exploring the Bock Beer Style: A Journey from Einbeck to Munich
• What is Lager Beer? Exploring the World’s Most Popular Beer Style
• What is the Difference Between Bock and Lager Beer? Unraveling the Brews: The Distinctive Worlds of Lager and Bock
• Information on Milko Pours
• The Rise of Craft Lagers in Pennsylvania Brewing
• Brewing Prosperity: The Economic Impact of Craft Beer
• The Rise Of Hazy IPAs: Exploring The Juicy Trend In Craft Beer
• Hops, History, and Innovation: The Fascinating Tale of the IPA
• 14 Great High Grade Octane IPAs You Should Be Trying
• The Lifespan of an IPA: Navigating the Freshness of Your Favorite Craft Beers
• East Coast vs. West Coast IPAs: New England Hazy IPAs and How They Differ From West Coast Bitter IPAs
• Embracing the Dark Side: A Guide to Stouts

Beer and Books

• Literature and Libations: A Beer and Book Guide
• Book Review: Futurama and Philosophy
• Book Review: Curb Your Enthusiasm and Philosophy
• Book Review: The Philosophy of Snoopy (Charles Schultz)
• Book Review: Create Dangerously (Albert Camus)
• Book Review: The Question of God
• Book Review: The Basic Laws of Human Stupidity
• Book Review: Free Will (Sam Harris)
• Book Review: Free Will Explained (Dan Baker)
• Book Review: On Bullshit (Harry G. Frankfurt)

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A Need for Meditation, Solemn Reflection, and Tranquility

There are thousands of reasons to hike. And perhaps one of the biggest reasons is for a sense of alone-ness. A sense of being by one’s self, alone, in the woods, to reflect, to meditate, to be lost in one’s own head. This was my aim today. In the morning we said farewell to Bartley Francis Kaminski, at Holy Spirit Catholic Church in Palmyra. You can read his obituary here: Bartley Francis Kaminski (1977 – 2021). And you can read my farewell to Bart here on the blog: Farewell to Bartley Kaminski.

I’m not a big fan of funerals (who is?); but they are a necessary ‘part of the process’. Unfortunately in my life, I’ve been to far too many of them. I’ve been pall bearer more than I’ve been a groomsmen. I’ve been to more funerals than I have weddings. I think back to various family members and friends, Mike Drobenak’s, my Great Grandma’s, my Aunt Janet’s, my Grammy’s; last year in February I had two uncles (a Great Uncle on my dad’s side and my mom’s brother in law) both pass away a week apart – and this was before COVID / coronavirus hit.

I grew up with the Hummelstown Cemetery being my backyard (my parent’s backyard connects to it). I walked through it to get to my elementary school every day for school. To say death has been a portion, or thought, or part of my life, might be an understatement. But I also feel like this could be said for so many. Its one of the main leading thoughts for most people. Its one of the driving forces behind all of our decisions. Todd May’s work ‘Death’ is such an extremely good piece of work about death, that is should be read by everyone. Its both philosophical and laymen. Its technical yet beautiful. You can read my book review here on the blog about it: Book Review: Death (Todd May).

So after the conclusion of the ceremony and listening to the bagpipes playing ‘Amazing Grace’ coming to an end, I made my way to my car, and sat for a bit. Needing tranquility, needing to lose myself, I called up my AllTrails app and looked for something close by. I had brought clothes to change into knowing I would need to hike, my hike boots were already in the car, and my current stack of reading books were in the car (my current stack of reading books always travel wherever I go, no matter what).

Governor Dick

I have been to the Tower at Governor Dick easily a dozen or more times in my life. I’ve gone when I was a small child with my parents, I’ve taken my daughters and my ex-wife, I’ve taken my dog Leela, and I’ve gone with Ming. There’s a ton of different routes and paths and trails all leading up to The Tower.

The Tower has gone through some changes over the years, they’ve fully enclosed the top to stop people from rappelling and climbing the walls of the Tower itself as if they were Batman or someone trying to break in or out of a prison. But the climb inside is and has always been the same (to my memory anyway). Claustrophobic, metallic, dusty, dirty, and most likely urine soaked on a platform or too. (Pretty sure that was the case today.)

The view at the top isn’t the most exceptional, but in the Manheim, Mt. Gretna area, its a nice and beautiful view. But its just what I needed for self reflection, meditation, and tranquility. A nice little breeze in the air, a beautiful view, direct sun, and I sat there with my back against the wall, reading, meditating, enjoying the breeze, enjoying the freedom, the sun, the peace, the tranquility, and the aloofness, the alone spirit of it all, letting my thoughts of life, Bart, death, and everything else just wash the stress out of me.

Hiking to The Tower

There is many paths and routes to get to the Tower, and you can start at various spots. Most people now usually start at the Conservancy Building (not 100% of the name of it), but its a lovely little spot where you can go inside (I believe it has re-opened ‘after’ COVID) where kids can go inside and do all manners of activities, as well as get to touch different animal pelts, see pictures, videos, brochures, animal bones, etc, etc, etc.

I took a different route this time. The map from AllTrails shows you the route I was hiking: Governor Dick Tower Trail (map). (Sorry, the screen shot isn’t working due to the way they have the map setup as a changeable feature, it turns it full grey in the screenshot. You can see the route I take when I post my route picture in just a bit.) Usually I can screenshot the AllTrails map, but for some reason, they have it on their website as a changeable piece, and so when you screenshot it, it just turns into a grey block. So, unfortunately, that won’t work for me to screenshot and post here. But from MapMyRun, I do have a copy of my hike, and thats practically the same as the AllTrails one.

Governor Dick Tower Trail

Hike: Governor Dick Tower Trail (Manheim, Pennsylvania)
Location: Governor Dick Park (Route 117 Start Point)
Near: Manheim, Pennsylvania
Length: 2.1 Miles (as per AllTrails)
Elevation Gain: 364 Feet (as per AllTrails) (not counting climbing the Tower)
Route Type: Out and Back
AllTrails Map: Governor Dick Tower Trail (Clarence Schock Park at Governor Dick)
AllTrails Description: Governor Dick Tower Trail is a 2.1 mile out and back trail located near Manheim, Pennsylvania that features a great forest setting. The trail is rated as moderate and is primarily used for hiking, walking, running, and nature trips.

Hiking Governor Dick Tower Trail

For this trail to the Tower, you start at a little pull – off along Route 117. Only one other car in the lot which is always nice, lets you know its going to be at least seemingly a relatively empty trail. (My preference anyway.) I arrived around 12:35 – 12:40PM after Bart’s services. Changed and put on my hiking boots and got my backpack loaded up with my books and some waters and Mountain Dews and started on the trail.

And, immediately regretted not having any bugs pray with. The gnats were absolutely… H – O – R – R – I – B – L – E ! Just the absolute worst. Like thick clouds of them the whole way to the Tower. I could swing my hand in front of me, open palm, and I was guaranteed to catch at least three or four of them, and smack another ten to fifteen out of the way. The trail started off as a stone slope upwards towards The Tower. The slope isn’t at too bad of an incline, so its a nice, moderate, relatively easy trail and path up.

Despite the gnats, it didn’t take me very long, maybe 35 minutes at most to reach The Observation Tower. Once there, I climbed up the old metal rungs of the ladder on the upward bound side and made my way to the top. At the top was a couple, sitting, enjoying the view, just holding hands, and I made my way around to the opposite side and sat with my back to the wall of the Tower ladder entrance / exit. I doffed my backpack and pulled out my books. For the next hour or so, I sat here, reading, meditating, thinking of Bart, of life, and of so much more that has been going on with myself, and my family, and just life really in general. In what might possibly have been the craziest years of my entire life – and this is saying something – I just stopped, sat there, read, meditated, and enjoyed the cool breeze at the top of the Tower. The gnats were gone, having left me alone, the sun was hot and shining directly on me, and I felt a very deep, inner sense, full resonating sense, of peace. For once.

Just before leaving and climbing back down, I saw a hummingbird buzz the cage that domes and surrounds the top of the tower. I tried to get a picture, but he flew away too quickly for me. But I did get to see him, buzzing up against the metal, and saw the beauty in his flapping wings. His energy and speed and quickness so evident. His energy reminded me of Bart. I don’t tend to look for portents and omens and all that, or to see signs and stuff, but getting to see the hummingbird did remind me of Bart, interestingly, after yesterday’s viewing and visit, Cliff Plank (current head brewer for Appalachian Brewing Company in Harrisburg) posted on Facebook how he saw an albino squirrel and it reminded him of Bart.

Another couple came up to the top and took pictures and went back down while I was reading. I think it was a daughter in her 20s or early 30s and her father in his 40s or 50s. They both said ‘hi’ and talked about the beauty of the area around them. They have been doing a different hike in a different Pennsylvania county every week, and this was their hike for the week.

While at the top of the tower, the books I was reading were: ‘Death’ by Todd May (I had finished it weeks ago, and you can read the book review here: Book Review: Death [Todd May], but felt like re-reading some passages in the wake of Bart’s passing), ‘State and Revolution’ by Vladimir Lenin, ‘Six Walks in the Fictional Woods’ by Umberto Eco, and ‘The Bomber Mafia’ by Malcolm Gladwell. (I’ll be posting book reviews for each of these in the future.)

Return Trip to the Car

After climbing back down, I hiked back down the slope, taking a slightly different route (the one actually listed on the AllTrails map, which has you take a slightly more scenic route, rather than fully up the rock slope) on my way back to the car. The gnats were present as soon as I got to the bottom of the Tower, and perhaps in even larger numbers. Made it to my car without incident and took off my hiking boots and then drove home, stopping at my parents, getting to see my little nephew and hanging out with him for a bit before he was picked up by my sister and brother in law.

Reflections, Thoughts, and the End

This was a needed hike. My 2021 has gone horribly awry from where I wanted it to go starting in March. And has not been the year I wanted it to be – at all; to say the least. I haven’t gotten to go to breweries like I wanted, and I haven’t really hiked as much as I wanted, or as I had planned. I’ve felt more isolated this year than in past years – including COVID central 2020. This hike was much needed. It was short, it was one I’ve been to many times, and it was on a day where I needed to reflect, to meditate, and to think. It was a recharging of batteries so to speak. A realignment with all things; instead of the Buddha under the Bodhi tree, I was Ben under the Tower’s cage. Maybe not similar, or an apt analogy, but it is how I spent some of my afternoon; reflecting and thinking, about life, about Bart, about death, about the meaning to things (and the lack thereof). Thought about cancer, about my mom’s cancer battles and the fear of it coming back, of losing my Aunt Janet to cancer, of my Great Grandma’s fight against Alzheimer’s and her loss to it, and so many others that I’ve known throughout my life who passed away to some form of cancer or another.

I think of Albert Camus and his absurdism, of Sartre and his existentialism, Kierkegaard and his thoughts about life and everything. These are the moments people need to make time for more. For reflection, meditation, self thought, to examine one’s own inner thoughts and life, to be a bit more Socratic. And thinking of Bart’s service, and of his life, it made me think about how we all need and should be more like him. Outgoing, cherishing the moments with friends, loved ones, living for the moment, helping others, extolling the virtues of those we are proud of, having fun, doing things out of our comfort zones, living life to its utmost potential. Bart did this, and more.

Links

Here’s some links, both on the blog and outside of the blog to various things related to the hike.

Bart:

• Farewell to Barley Kaminski
• Bartley Francis Kaminski Obituary
• Brews and Bands for Bart

Governor Dick:

• Explore Governor Dick Trail (AllTrails)
• Governor Dick Tower Trail via Route 117 (AllTrails)

The Beer Thriller Hikes and Travelogues:

• Hike: Hawk Rock
• Hike: Rattling Run
• Rickett’s Glenn
• 1000 Steps Trail

Measure of a Well Lived Life

• Measure of a Well Lived Life by Arthur Miller (Pocket)

Be safe out there everyone, get vaccinated, love each other, live life to its fullest. Grow each day. Peace, hugs, and chugs.

-B. Kline

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