In Martin Luther King's Letter from Birmingham jail, we see several factors that influence the state of philosophical discussion in that City. Some of these same factors were at work at the time of the birth of philosophy. Most of them are still playing an important role today. I will discuss one factor, though there are many more to be observed. Positive tension is the contributor I want to point out today. In his letter, King is talking about the tension that is created by direct integrationist action. Since both sides agreed that negotiation was the wisest course of action, the only question then is whether the right conditions exist for such negotiation. But the negotiation cannot be initiated when either side is unwilling to participate actively. Therefore, King describes the way that direct action creates, "such a crisis and fosters such a tension that a community which has constantly refused to negotiate is forced to confront the issue." In much the same way, Greek society was at the beginning of philosophy, a very tense environment. War, myth and poetry were the substance of everyday life. Socrates "felt that it was necessary to create a tension in the mind so that individuals could rise from the bondage of myths and half truths. The Greek myths and traditions that were present in this time were not essentially replaced by philosophy, but to use King's own words, philosophy was a step towards "the majestic heights of understanding." It could not have been achieved without the tensions that spurred new thinking and conversation within society. A refreshing way to look at the world and everything in it emerges. Philosophy is born.
Steve,
ReplyDeleteThis is a very thoughtful post. I think you are right to isolate the importance of tension. There are ways in which certain kinds of activities make people immediately uncomfortable, and both Socrates and Dr. King were very much engaged in that task. If you get a chance, you should take a look at Plato's "Apology" dialogue, in which you find Socrates speaking of his role as a "Gadfly" of Athens: drawing people out on their incoherent commitments and pressing them toward wisdom, self-knowledge, and care of their souls. And like Dr. King, Socrates was rewarded with death for his efforts.
I wonder what are some ways in which, in our current philosophical activity, we can bring about discomfort to ourselves and others, such that the truth is pursued in a more urgent way?
Nathan,
ReplyDeleteI will read the apology as soon as possible. It's interesting that you bring up the point about both Dr. King and Socrates being killed for their efforts. Like Dr. Bowery said, "The political domain tends to kill philosophers." Sad, but true. Heraclitus thinks that "It is better to conceal ignorance." It would seem that Politicians agree, for when these two thinkers revealed the ignorance around them, they were rewarded with death. Heraclitus was on to something...smart man!
I think that right now, it's very important to ask the difficult questions. I feel like politically and even in our everyday lives, we have found comfort in not asking uncomfortable questions. So, that's one way to make sure the truth is pursued. Also, in return offer disagreement the old fashioned philosopher way. We've certainly lost our boldness over these past few years.
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