Philosopher's Zone Philosophy and mysticism
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Nov 21, 2024 
Simon Critchley, a Professor of philosophy at the New School for Social Research and author of "On Mysticism, The Experience of Ecstasy," dives into the intriguing intersection of mysticism and modern philosophy. He critiques the skepticism surrounding mysticism in academia and discusses how contemporary philosophy can benefit from mystical experiences. The conversation also touches on the emotional landscapes of music, particularly the transformative impact of the German band Can, and advocates for a deeper, humble engagement with spirituality.
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Mysticism's Troublesome Nature
- Mysticism troubles Christian authorities by emphasizing direct divine experience, bypassing priestly mediation.
- It also involves bizarre visions and voices, bypassing rational thought, making philosophy suspicious.
Mysticism: A Definition
- Mysticism, a tendency within religion, not a religion itself, has existed in all hominid societies.
- It's an intense form of experience, a 19th-century term capturing spirituality and projected onto past figures.
Philosophy's Distrust of Mysticism
- Post-Enlightenment philosophy distrusts mysticism due to Luther's emphasis on scripture and faith alone and Kant's rational critique.
- This limits philosophy's scope, neglecting its historical concern with the divine, like Plato's and Aristotle's.
