Sociological Mindfulness in Walter Pater's "The Renaissance"

For AP English, we had to read Walter Pater's conclusion to "The Renaissance" and see how his philosophy is reflected in The Picture of Dorian Gray. When I was reading, I noticed how Pater talked about embracing new ideas by "curiously testing new opinions and courting new impressions." He also says that "Philosophy is the microscope of thought" because it lets you see and appreciate theories that would otherwise pass unregarded. I believe this quote sums of sociological mindfulness because if you are sociologically mindful, you can learn and respect new ideas that you find in philosophies. Pater also talks about how experiences help us "see and touch" these theories. By being sociologically mindful, you spread what you learn and experience to others. Pater is being sociologically mindful by telling his readers to take time and experience the philosophies because "to burn always with this hard, gemlike flame, to maintain this ecstasy [of pleasures from learning and observing new things in life], is the success in life." Although I am not sure how well this relates to The Picture of Dorian Gray (besides going into hedonism and Lord Henry's myriad of philosophies), I do know that this article is all about sociological mindfulness!

Who Am I?

I'm a Junior at a very large high school. I've been doing gymnastics since I was 3. I'm on varsity gymnastics at my school. My freshman year, we got second place at state. Last year, we had an undefeated season and were the state champions! I love all things pop culture and entertainment. I go on perezhilton.com to learn about all the celebrity gossip. I love television. I watch so many shows including: Gossip Girl, 90210, Brothers & Sisters, Grey's Anatomy, Desperate Housewives, Lost, and more! This year I'm planning on adding three more shows to my long list: Melrose Place, Flash Forward, and Vampire Diaries. I love the Harry Potter books and the movies as well. I also love to listen to alternative/pop rock music. My favorite bands are The Maine, Cobra Starship, All Time Low, A Rocket to the Moon, The Summer Set, and Eye Alaska. My family is very important to me. I have a brother and a sister both in college. I also have a chocolate lab puppy named Sadie. Because I do gymnastics and watch a lot of TV, I've learned to manage my time very well. My friends and family make me the person I am today: funny, caring, and responsible. I hope this year is fun and successful. I can't wait to learn more in Sociology :)