Miki Kiyoshi's 'The Logic of Imagination' emphasizes the active role of imagination in shaping cultural narratives and societal structures.
The podcast critiques technological determinism, advocating for a reflective engagement with technology's influence on human imagination and societal frameworks.
Deep dives
Exploration of Miki Kyoshi's Philosophy
Miki Kyoshi's work, 'The Logic of Imagination', delves into the interplay between imagination and various elements of culture, such as myth, institution, and technology. These interconnected sections highlight how myths influence collective perception while institutions structure societal norms and technology shapes human interactions with the world. Kyoshi asserts that the imagination's role extends beyond mere abstraction; it actively constructs reality and influences the social fabric through these mediating elements. His ideas reflect a nuanced understanding of how imagination operates both individually and communally, forming a comprehensive worldview.
The Role of Imagination in History
In discussing the nature of imagination, Kyoshi proposes that it serves as a foundational framework for structuring human experience and history. He contrasts the productive and reproductive aspects of imagination, emphasizing its capability to innovate and construct reality rather than merely reflect it. This broader conception extends to the social realm, where shared imagination contributes to the development of cultural narratives and collective memory. By integrating these historical elements, Kyoshi argues that imagination is inherently linked to the progression and transformation of human society.
Kyoshi's Interdisciplinary Influences
Kyoshi's philosophy draws upon a range of thinkers, including Kant, Hegel, and Marx, situating his ideas within a broader intellectual context. While Kant and Hegel provide foundational concepts, Kyoshi also resonates with the Kyoto School's focus on integrating Eastern and Western philosophies. His references to myth and collective consciousness showcase a synthesis of various philosophical traditions, emphasizing the importance of diverse perspectives in understanding the imagination. This intertextuality illustrates Kyoshi's intention to create a robust framework that reflects the complexity of human thought and experience.
Technology and Its Impact on Imagination
Kyoshi critically examines the implications of technology on human imagination and societal structures, proposing that technology both shapes and is shaped by collective thought. He warns against the dangers of a technological determinism that assumes progress without questioning its implications, suggesting that this can lead to rigid ideologies. By acknowledging technology as a significant force in shaping our worldview, Kyoshi encourages a more reflective engagement with its role in contemporary society. Ultimately, he advocates for a balance between technological advancement and the fluidity of imagination, emphasizing the need for adaptability in an ever-changing world.
John W.M. Krummel is Associate Professsor and Chair of Religious Studies at Hobart & William Smith Colleges, USA. In this episode we discuss Miki Kiyoshi's text 'The Logic of Imagination'.Book link: https://www.bloomsbury.com/uk/miki-kiyoshis-the-logic-of-imagination-9781350449909/---Become part of the Hermitix community:Hermitix Twitter - /hermitixpodcast Support Hermitix:Patreon - www.patreon.com/hermitixDonations: - https://www.paypal.me/hermitixpodHermitix Merchandise - http://teespring.com/stores/hermitix-2Bitcoin Donation Address: 3LAGEKBXEuE2pgc4oubExGTWtrKPuXDDLKEthereum Donation Address: 0x31e2a4a31B8563B8d238eC086daE9B75a00D9E74
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