PHIL 1402 - Philosophy - Journal

During this week’s reading, I found that for someone engaging with the text, the most interesting part could vary depending on their interests and prior knowledge. They might find Plato's vision of philosopher-kings intriguing, Aristotle's emphasis on virtue ethics compelling, or St. Thomas Aquinas' synthesis of philosophy and theology thought-provoking. For instance, if someone previously held a belief in purely democratic governance without much consideration for the merits of meritocracy, Plato's ideas could prompt them to reconsider the balance between expertise and popular rule. On the other hand, if someone leaned heavily on individual autonomy and secular governance, Aquinas' emphasis on natural law and the common good might challenge them to think more deeply about the moral foundations of society.

Reflecting on the passage could lead to a broader understanding of the complexities of governance, ethics, and societal organization, prompting a shift in perspective towards a more nuanced appreciation of the philosophical underpinnings of these concepts. Overall, encountering diverse philosophical perspectives can enrich one's worldview by encouraging critical thinking and fostering a deeper understanding of the complexities of human society.

Philosophy offers a rich tapestry of ideas and perspectives, each with its own insights and challenges. What might resonate deeply with one person could provoke intense scrutiny or disagreement from another, depending on their predispositions, experiences, and philosophical leanings. Plato's concept of philosopher-kings, for example, raises questions about the nature of leadership, the role of expertise, and the tension between democracy and meritocracy. Aristotle's emphasis on virtue ethics invites reflection on the cultivation of character and the pursuit of the good life. Meanwhile, St. Thomas Aquinas' synthesis of philosophy and theology invites exploration into the relationship between reason and faith, and the moral foundations of society.

Engaging with these diverse perspectives not only broadens one's understanding of governance, ethics, and societal organization but also fosters critical thinking skills. It encourages individuals to question assumptions, consider alternative viewpoints, and grapple with complex moral and intellectual dilemmas. Ultimately, such engagement can lead to a more nuanced and informed appreciation of the philosophical underpinnings of human society, contributing to personal growth and a deeper understanding of the world.

Reference

Burnyeat, M.F. (1997).  Culture and Society in Plato's Republic. The Tanner Lectures on Human Values.  Harvard University.  Available at https://tannerlectures.utah.edu/_resources/documents/a-to-z/b/Burnyeat99.pdf 

Internet encyclopedia of philosophy. (n.d.). https://iep.utm.edu/thomasaquinas-moral-philosophy/ 

Levin, M. (2012). Ameritopia: The Unmaking of America. NY: Simon and  Schuster, Inc. 

Zubairi, A. (2022, January 25). The story of philosophy: The lives and opinions of the greatest philosophers, by Will Durant. LinkedIn. https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/story-philosophy-lives-opinions-greatest-philosophers-zubairi