David Cayley and Dougald Hine discuss the legacy of Ivan Illich, exploring topics such as science, climate change, pandemics, ruins, friendship, the role of scientists, marginalized communities, Jewishness, thinning care, and prayer. They emphasize the relevance of Illich's ideas to our present situation, reflecting on the need to reevaluate assumptions of industrial society and find meaning in the current ruins. The chapter highlights Illich's influence, connections with world leaders, and the lack of implementation by politicians.
The corruption of the best is the worst - the best qualities, intentions, or ideals can become damaging or harmful when corrupted or perverted.
Genuine care should not be reduced to sentimentality - it involves action, sacrifice, and a genuine concern for others.
Deep dives
The corruption of the best is the worst
The phrase 'the corruption of the best is the worst' refers to the idea that the best qualities, intentions, or ideals can become the most damaging or harmful when they are corrupted or perverted. In the context of the podcast, it highlights the understanding that the best intentions of Christianity can be corrupted or distorted in modernity, leading to negative consequences. It emphasizes the importance of being aware of the potential negative outcomes when ideals or values are misused or manipulated.
The significance of prayer and caring
In the podcast, Illich discusses the importance of understanding the difference between genuine care and sentimentality. He emphasizes that care should not be reduced to a mere feeling, and that true care involves taking action and making sacrifices. Prayer, in Illich's view, should not be a way of thinning care into a sentiment, but rather a means of deepening our understanding and connection to the world around us. He suggests that prayer should be approached with a mindset of genuine concern and a willingness to recognize our own limitations and helplessness, rather than using it as a way to alleviate guilt or satisfy a desire for virtue.
The corruption of the best is the worst as an insight into history
In the podcast, the phrase 'the corruption of the best is the worst' is presented as a powerful historical insight. It suggests that when the best qualities, ideas, or institutions are corrupted or perverted, they can have the most detrimental impact. Illich argues that this corruption can be seen throughout the history of the West, as even the most well-intentioned and positive advancements often end up causing harm. This perspective challenges the notion that progress is always positive and warns against the dangers of unchecked ambition or the misuse of power.
Two Illichian thinkers dialogue on the legacy of Illich, in the light of our present times and predicaments. This is the first of four fortnightly conversations.
To join in the upcoming Zoom meetings, reach out to either Dougald Hine or David Benjamin Blower on Substack to become a paid subscriber for this and other excellent offerings by these two.
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