Demarcation and Demystification by J. Moufawad-Paul
Jan 26, 2020
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Alyson and Breht interview J. Moufawad-Paul about his book Demarcation and Demystification, discussing the role of philosophy in clarifying thought and intervention. They explore the importance of critical thinking and philosophy in revolutionary movements, the efficacy of philosophy in fighting capitalism, imperialism, and fascism, the distinction between theory and philosophy, and the implications of the book for organizing as Marxists in the real world.
Philosophy is influenced by concrete material conditions and politics of its time.
Philosophy serves as a second-order practice that clarifies and demystifies the theoretical terrain.
The canonization of philosophers reflects historical materialist analysis of philosophy.
Understanding the link between philosophy and its historical contexts helps demystify philosophical claims and reveals underlying class struggle.
Deep dives
The Influence of Concrete Historical Conditions on Philosophy
The history of philosophy is shaped by the concrete material conditions and politics of its time. For example, Plato's philosophy reflects the contradictions of ancient Athens, with its democratic facade upheld by slavery and patriarchy. Similarly, philosophers like Aristotle and Aquinas were canonized based on the political needs of imperial Rome and feudal Europe, respectively. Liberal philosophers, such as Hobbes and Locke, emerged as ideologues of European hegemony. The canonization of philosophers is driven by their resonance with and justification of prevailing power structures.
Philosophy as Second Order Thought
Philosophy serves as a second order practice that intervenes in the dialectical relationship between theory and praxis. While theory theorizes what exists and how it functions, philosophy thinks about the meaning of what exists. It clarifies debates, maps the root between conflicting theoretical explanations, and evaluates the terms of the debate. Philosophers play a crucial role in clarifying and demystifying the theoretical terrain, uncovering the underlying political commitments and class struggle within theoretical claims.
Canonization of Philosophers
The canonization of philosophers reflects the historical materialist analysis of philosophy itself. For example, the canonization of Plato and Aristotle has been influenced by the political struggles and contradictions of their time. Later canonizations, such as those of Aquinas and liberal philosophers, were driven by concrete historical conditions, including the rise of imperial Rome and European colonialism. The canonization of philosophers often serves to legitimize prevailing power structures and justify the ideals and values of certain societies.
Linking Philosophy and Concrete Historical Contexts
The historical materialist analysis of philosophy highlights the dialectical relationship between concrete historical conditions and the development of philosophical thought. Philosophy reflects and is shaped by the material struggles, political needs, and ideological justifications of its time. Understanding the link between philosophy and its concrete historical contexts helps to demystify philosophical claims and reveals the underlying class struggle and political commitments within theoretical discourse.
Philosophy's Connection to Class Struggle
Philosophy is not separate from class struggle, and it is important to recognize that oppressive ruling class ideologies have played a role in shaping academic philosophy. However, it is crucial to understand that philosophy extends beyond academia and can be practiced by politically conscious individuals as well. The importance of critical thinking and the need to think critically about political issues is emphasized.
Struggling Against Anti-Marxism in Academia
While academic philosophy should be held accountable for its complicity with anti-Marxist ideologies, it is still a space of struggle. It is necessary to resist the neoliberalization of the university and to challenge anti-Marxist tendencies within philosophy departments. Efforts should be made to establish spaces outside academia that offer rigorous and politically committed philosophical education. Thinking philosophy beyond the confines of academia is crucial for building a revolutionary political project.
Philosophy, Practice, and Revolutionary Commitment
The book emphasizes that philosophy is not an abstract or grand ontological project, but rather a practice that should be connected to political struggles. It advocates for the transformative power of philosophical practice, encouraging individuals to engage critically and rigorously with revolutionary theory. Emphasizing the importance of continuity and rupture, the book invites readers to actively participate in a revolutionary political project.
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