The Partially Examined Life Philosophy Podcast Ep. 350: Rorty on Justification and Essentialism (Part One)
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Sep 16, 2024 Philosopher Richard Rorty, known for his influential thoughts on pragmatism and anti-authoritarianism, dives into powerful ideas about democracy and truth. He argues that we don't need absolute truths to justify democratic values. Rorty dismisses the distinction between essential and accidental properties, proposing that everything is defined by its relations. The conversation also humorously navigates the divide between continental and analytic philosophies, championing a shift toward pan-relationalism to understand reality.
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Pragmatic Justification For Democracy
- Rorty argues democracy needs no appeal to transcendent Truth or Good to be justified.
- He insists justification can be pragmatic, grounded in what works for our purposes and conversations.
Truth Tied To Practical Difference
- Rorty treats skepticism about a mind-independent reality as irrelevant if it makes no practical difference.
- He privileges descriptions that affect practice over inquiries into a hidden 'thing in itself.'
Democracy Needs Moral Persuasion
- Rorty emphasizes moral agreement and education as the basis for persuading people toward democracy.
- He downplays purely rational foundations and highlights shaping dispositions through upbringing and discourse.