Philosophy’s Responsibility

July 23, 2024 Sociocultural Issues No Comments

Philosophy aims to be accurate and profound in matters that surpass the conceptually obvious. Sophos is not logos. Wisdom, unlike knowledge – which belongs to science – pertains to depth.

Far from being just a bunch of words, striving for wisdom lies at the basis of any human endeavor — putting an enormous responsibility on people who philosophize as their primary occupation.

Human Nature

For at least three millennia, people worldwide have pondered who we are as human beings. Much of their insights are intriguing, yet most ‘progress’ has stemmed from external factors such as cultural discoveries, basic science, and practical technology.

As a complex species, we can be examined from different perspectives. Some are related to knowledge (surface-level), while others are related to wisdom (depth), each highlighting different facets of our nature. This multifaceted nature of humans underscores the importance of integrating both knowledge and wisdom to fully comprehend our existence. By merging both perspectives, we gain a holistic understanding that respects both the tangible and intangible aspects of humanity.

As technology advances, it reshapes our environment.

Thanks to our inherent adaptability, we evolve alongside these changes. Consequently, everything becomes more complex, providing us with greater means to do both good and bad. Moreover, we have increased capacity for global communication and influence, with potential for both positive and negative impacts.

This elevates contemporary philosophical responsibility to unprecedented heights. Philosophers must navigate this complexity with an ethical compass, ensuring technology serves humanity’s deeper needs.

Ideal philosophy underpins many crucial questions.

The unity of body and mind is one such question. Without profound and realistic philosophy, the field of psycho-somatics will continue to suffer immensely, resulting in significant morbidity and mortality and many missed opportunities for understanding.

Regrettably, in this and many other instances, the right philosophical questions are not even posed. Consequently, crucial topics remain unexplored, leading to persistent and severe mistakes.

What constitutes a correct question in this context?

For example, asking, “How could the ephemeral mind effectively influence the material body in illness and health?” is misguided.

A better question is whether the mind and body differ inherently or simply in how they are perceived. Philosophically, this latter question precedes the former. Specifically, the first question, if relevant, leads to knowledge, while the second leads to self-wisdom. Without the second, the first loses its meaning. This shift in questioning can transform our approach to psycho-somatic medicine, fostering deeper insights and more effective interventions.

Western medicine, in everything concerning the mind, often overlooks the philosophical depth needed to understand mind-body unity. This oversight leads to a lack of profound solutions and ethical responsibility, which could be addressed through a Compassionate and growth-oriented approach.

Any skeptical philosopher should recognize this and act accordingly, fundamentally questioning much of mind-related medicine.

Philosophers can play a critical role in reshaping medical paradigms to incorporate deeper, more holistic views of health and healing.

Then why don’t we see that?

The responsible philosopher

I believe the primary task of a responsible philosopher is to manage their ego effectively — ensuring it doesn’t obstruct the pursuit of profound wisdom. With so much at stake, minimizing this ethical responsibility is unacceptable. By prioritizing wisdom over ego, philosophers can make significant contributions to society, especially in the realm of ethics and human understanding.

Sadly, my personal experience with philosophers has been disappointing in this respect.

Wasn’t Socrates – the quintessential philosopher of wisdom – leading the way until he chose suicide?

I often ponder why he did so. Perhaps he couldn’t endure the future he foresaw – or his present. Would he have made an even greater contribution to the world otherwise?

Modern philosophers should draw inspiration from Socrates, striving to impact the world positively, regardless of personal challenges.

If any present-day Socrates is reading this, I urge you to rise and take action!

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Addendum

Me: “What kind of wisdom do you think Socrates could have brought us and didn’t because of his early departure from life?”

Lisa: “His approach of relentless questioning and pursuit of truth might have bridged gaps between different fields of thought, integrating philosophy more profoundly with daily life and practical wisdom. He might have further developed ideas on ethical living, self-knowledge, and the pursuit of virtue in ways that directly address contemporary issues, such as mental health and societal well-being. His continued presence could have shaped a more compassionate and reflective society, emphasizing inner growth and the ethical implications of our actions.”