Why the Philosopher is Needed Now More Than Ever
When humanity comes to a crossroads over religion, the structure of the universe, economy or law, philosophy is there to push us in the right direction and to warn us of the wrong direction
As we rapidly approach 2020, we find ourselves in a unique and, perhaps, uniquely pivotal moment in human history. On the cusp of numerous technological breakthroughs, in the midst of wanton consumerism and betwixt political engagement, what better time than now to turn towards the steadfast subject of truth, virtue, and ethical cultivation: philosophy.
Don’t get me wrong — philosophers have always evolved alongside us and bestowed their timeless knowledge and perspective in the direst times of uncertainty. Plato and Aristotle laid the foundation for science and mathematics in the BC’s; Thomas Aquinas and Francis of Assisi shone the bright lights of theology through the dark ages; Galileo and Descartes uncovered to us the workings of universe during the Renaissance; David Hume and John Locke later structured our legal and economic systems during the pre-industrialist age; and more recently, Noam Chomskey and John Searle have helped (and continue to help) us toe the line with novel issues like programming (and A.I.) through…
