Ecstasy and philosophy: PHILOSOPHY AND MYSTICISM |Philosopher Simon Critchley
Dec 31, 2024
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Simon Critchley, a Professor of Philosophy at the New School for Social Research and author of 'On Mysticism,' challenges the dominance of rationality in contemporary thought. He dives into how mysticism can address modern anxieties, using Hamlet as a backdrop. Critchley reflects on Julian of Norwich’s legacy, promoting love and authentic experiences. He emphasizes the transformative potential of mysticism in daily life, urging philosophers to engage publicly and incorporate compassion and curiosity into cultural conversations.
Critchley argues that contemporary philosophy's focus on rationality neglects emotional experiences, advocating for a blend with mystical traditions to enrich understanding.
Examining historical mystics reveals that engaging with art and music can help individuals transcend modern anxieties and connect with deeper emotional truths.
Deep dives
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Simon Critchley's Exploration of Mysticism
Simon Critchley’s latest work delves into the often-overlooked English tradition of mysticism, proposing that it offers valuable insights for contemporary philosophy. He begins by contrasting the melancholy disposition found in Shakespeare's Hamlet with the more expansive and loving perspectives that mysticism advocates. Critchley argues that traditional philosophy, with its critical and rational focus, often neglects the authentic emotional experiences that mysticism can facilitate, such as love and joy. Through this lens, he encourages a reconsideration of how philosophy can better engage with the human experience by incorporating aspects of mysticism.
Defining Mysticism and Its Relevance
Critchley emphasizes that mysticism is defined as experiencing life in its most intense form, which can provide relief from modern anxieties and a deeper sense of being. He references historical mystics, particularly from the medieval Christian tradition, who sought to annihilate the self to connect with profound levels of love and ecstasy. By pushing aside personal ego and engaging with art and music, individuals can attain these mystical experiences in everyday life. This concept underlines the importance of spirituality as an antidote to the existential challenges of the modern world.
The Intersection of Philosophy and Modern Need
Critchley posits that contemporary philosophy needs to reconnect with broader cultural conversations and engage with the metaphysical and spiritual needs of society. He critiques the current academic landscape for presenting philosophy as overly skeptical and disconnected from personal and social issues. By drawing on mystical practices, such as engaging with music and the aesthetic, he advocates for a philosophy that provokes genuine curiosity and emotional resonance. This approach not only opens the door for a richer understanding of human experiences but also revitalizes interest in philosophy among wider audiences.
Has contemporary philosophy colonised all philosophy with its preference for rationality over feeling, intensity, experience, and love? What can an open conversation about mysticism help us uncover about our philosophical tradition and ourselves?
Join maverick Professor of Philosophy Simon Critchley as he talks about his new book On Mysticism and explores some of the mystical characters in the Medieval times, as well as ways in which we can access mysticism in our daily lives.