Systems of Thought vs. Ways of Mankind

Philosophy Forums Philosophy
1

Which chair do you subscribe to?

  • The history of systems of thought
  • The history of ways of mankind
0 voters

Do we see a fresh rift between established scholars investigating the history of systems of thought and those archaeologists of knowledge more purely focused on the history of ways of mankind? Has a new chair opened up in the world of European philosophy? Undoubtedly, the prophet himself will forever evoke in our minds the romantic imagery of holy scripture in his denial of the synthetic distinctions of grand politics. Meanwhile, men like the late Michel Foucault of the College de France will always be remembered for pushing the establishment to breaking point before the radically enlightened postwar generation. What are you yourself in the end, a systems of thought man or a ways of mankind aficionado? Even my girlfriend and I are split (makes for good conversation!!?)

2

Systems of Thought -rationalism in one extreme.
Ways of Mankind - empiricism in the other extreme.
We need to hold and reconcile the two extremes [the Middle-Path] to enable optimal living.

3

Cheers for such a meaningful response, I like your synopsis. I for one find such concerted rationalism to make for tedious and wretched business.

4

Rationalism is for working out a coherent and reliable understanding.
Empiricism is for verifying that you accomplished that intent.

For most people, neither is relevant. Such efforts are only for designers; architects, engineers, and planners.

5

I, and many I know, fall under one of those industries, and both efforts are relevant in achieving our end goals.

Funny how we take such processes for granted.