The Partially Examined Life Philosophy Podcast Ep. 296: Heidegger's Questions Being (Part One)
Jun 27, 2022
Dive into the intriguing world of Heidegger's philosophy as the hosts unravel the complexities of 'Being and Time.' They examine the nature of inquiry and existence, contrasting Heidegger's ideas with Aristotle's views on ontology. The discussion reveals distinctions between ontic and ontological perspectives, particularly through the lens of Dasein. Explore how effective questioning deepens understanding and the unique significance of human existence in the philosophical landscape. The intricacies of defining 'being' provide a thought-provoking backdrop for this exploration.
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Being Is Not a Genus
- Heidegger distinguishes being from a genus or species, rejecting Aristotle's view that being is a universal genus.
- Being is not definable by higher categories or differents, showing it's a unique concept beyond traditional taxonomy.
Inquiry Needs Prior Understanding
- Inquiry requires a prior vague understanding of what is being sought, as exemplified by the Meno problem.
- This pre-knowledge is essential for meaningful questioning and guides the process toward clarification.
Questioning Reflects Our Being
- The act of questioning reveals the nature of the questioner, showing that inquisitiveness is a fundamental mode of human being.
- Questioning is a constitutive feature of Dasein's ontology, not just an abstract mental act.
