The Philosophy Site

Philosophy and Truth

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It is my belief that philosophy, derived from the Greek words for 'love of wisdom' ('philos sophos'), is something which most of us, whether academic philosophers or not, engage in. When we appreciate a beautiful sunset, muddle our way through an ethical dilemma, or choose a lifestyle, we are - whether we realise it or not - motivated by a worldview or philosophy of life. Human beings from time immemorial have experienced the desire to know or understand themselves, other people, and their environment. The authentic vocation or calling of the philosopher (which is shared by every rational person) is to seek out the truth with courage and integrity.

Of course, this concept of 'truth' is something that has been questioned and doubted by many people since the very inception of philosophy. However, just about any human knowledge (including scientific theories) depends on a basic trust both in our own cognitive faculties and in those of our fellow human beings, not to mention the ability of other people to share their knowledge with honesty and integrity. The most basic act of communication depends on an acceptance of certain logical propositions, first and foremost the law of non-contradiction. If the skeptic engages in rational argument, he is already implicitly accepting certain rational, linguistic and logical norms as valid.

This is not the place to settle a debate about the possibility of attaining a truthful proposition which is universally valid (that is, for all human beings and for all time). However, the rejection of this concept of truth, which is almost commonplace in contemporary Western culture - both at a popular level and in certain academic circles - should not go unchallenged, because the very nature and purpose of our existence is at stake. The 20th century should have taught us at least this much: if man is not bound by a truth greater than himself, he is in grave danger of descending into utter contempt and callousness for his fellow neighbours, particularly if they are vulnerable and are seen as obstacles to his 'will to power'.

What I hope to impress upon you (forgive me if you already agree) is that this past century has seen a radical transformation of the concept of truth and knowledge in the popular mind - a transformation which has far-reaching consequences both within the lives of countless individuals, and in the culture and life of society as a whole.

I am aware that there are arguments which can be made against this position. Some will agree with me that this past century has seen a radical transformation in our collective understanding of truth, but they will perhaps perceive this transformation as a step forward and not a regression or setback. Others may neither agree with my concept of truth, nor my view of its evolution during the 20th century. In this short space, I prefer not to mount a rigorous defence of my position - I will leave that for another day. However, I trust that my position is clear, and that, since it goes against mainstream cultural and academic opinion, it cannot but provoke somebody to defend or refine their philosophical beliefs! That in itself, I humbly submit, would be a worthwhile achievement.

 

Site edited by David Thunder, this page last updated January 9th, 2002.

(dthunder@eircom.net)