Philosophy Does Not Make Progress (1)
Why consensus is impossible and a revolution is needed
Philosophy — the pursuit of understanding the fundamental truths — has historically been plagued by one seemingly insurmountable obstacle: the disparity of opinion.
This perpetual uphill battle towards a consensus has left both philosophers and society at large perplexed and frustrated. Despite the extensive intellectual tussles that have taken place throughout Western tradition, there remains no definitive answer to life’s most profound questions.
Why is this? What prevents philosophical discourse from transcending the realms of theory and truly progressing towards a shared understanding of truth?
Let’s begin by unravelling the subjective nature of philosophical opinions. We stand witness to a fascinating phenomenon, where individuals gravitate towards beliefs influenced not solely by reason, but also emotions, utility, tradition, and education.
These complex webs of influence create a rich tapestry upon which philosophical opinions are woven. However, our deep-seated notions of subjectivity prevent us from accepting opposing theories as anything more than subjective reflections of personal experiences.
Philosophy’s fragmented landscape creates an ever-widening chasm between contending perspectives. The dynamic interplay between conflicting theories gives rise to polarized and divisive worldviews, hindering any genuine attempt at embracing alternative positions. In essence, we find ourselves trapped within echo chambers of our own making.
But let us not undermine the efforts made within academia to display notions of progress through innovative theories and careful reasoning. Expert philosophers tirelessly construct frameworks that strive towards comprehending the complexities of existence. But progression in theory presupposes a linear evolution towards an eventual truth — an assumption that obfuscates the inherently paradoxical nature of philosophical inquiry.
Perhaps this apparent lack of progress stems from misguided expectations regarding philosophy’s ability to prove one position over another. Philosophy poses daunting challenges that seem destined to remain unanswered. How can we definitively prove or discredit a philosophical belief when it rests upon our inherently subjective perceptual filters?
Within the tangled chambers of thought does truth falter. The very nature of dualistic worldviews — the fundamental tension between the subjective and objective — is rooted in human thought itself and, alas, contributes to the cyclical impasse in which philosophy dances. By fixating on the assumption that absolute truth lies in either subjectivity or objectivity, we inadvertently constrain ourselves to an intellectual stalemate.
In order to move forward, we must look beyond these epistemic shackles and seek alternative paths. A shift in awareness opens up avenues leading us away from this vexing predicament of subjective versus objective singularities.
Recognizing the multidimensionality of truth requires abandoning assumptions that underpin orthodox philosophies. It heralds a paradigm shift towards a holistic approach that embraces the complexities and interconnections inherent in the cosmic tapestry.
If one slips into receptive contemplation and allows oneself to be hypnotized by philosophical discord, something intriguing flickers within these corridors of thought: a gentle hum resonating with an almost mystical timbre.
Alongside walls lined with ancient riddles and contemporary conundrums, this faint chorus ceases not — driven by fingers plucking strings woven from the fibres of the laughter of the gods.
