Mary Midgley, a prominent British moral philosopher, known for her work on science, ethics, and human nature, has a distinctive view on the nature of philosophical writing and its purpose. Her statement that "Philosophy ought really to be written only as a poetic composition" can be understood as a reflection of her broader view that philosophy should be accessible, engaging, and deeply connected to the human experience.
Midgley's assertion champions the idea that philosophical ideas should be expressed in a way that resonates with people's lives and emotions. By invoking the term "poetic," she is not necessarily calling for philosophy to be written in verse or with a focus on aesthetics alone. Rather, she is underscoring the importance of a style that captures the richness, nuance, and complexity of thought in a manner that evokes a deeper understanding and reflection.
In the tradition of philosophy, there has often been a sharp distinction between the poetic and the philosophical, with the former being associated with emotion and imagination and the latter with logic and reason. Midgley challenges this division, suggesting that the philosophical endeavor is not merely about the dry analysis of concepts but about the exploration of the human condition, which necessarily involves the passions, hopes, and fears that poetry often speaks to.
Writing philosophy as a "poetic composition" would imply a form of philosophical inquiry that is more narrative, metaphorical, and illustrative—qualities that can make philosophy more alive and relevant to personal and communal life. It is through such a vibrant and imaginative discourse that philosophy can reach beyond academia and speak directly to the existential concerns of individuals.
Midgley’s perspective is a call to philosophers to consider the literary quality and the communicative power of their work. Philosophical texts that harness the evocative and rhetorical power of language can engage readers on multiple levels—not just intellectually but also emotionally and imaginatively, which are crucial aspects of human understanding and moral reasoning.
In emphasizing philosophy as a poetic composition, Midgley aligns with a tradition that includes philosophers like Plato, who used dialogues filled with imagery and myths, and Nietzsche, whose aphoristic style conveyed profound insights through a poetic lens. This approach can break down barriers between different domains of human inquiry, encouraging a synthesis between the analytic and the artistic, and affirming that philosophy is not only a cerebral pursuit but also one deeply intertwined with the fabric of human life.
Ultimately, Midgley's statement reflects her commitment to a philosophy that is not isolated from the world but is an integral part of the cultural and intellectual discourse. It highlights the value of clarity, beauty, and depth in philosophical writing and argues for a way of doing philosophy that is both insightful and inspirational, capable of touching all facets of human experience.
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