THE GRAPH OF DESIRE + What Is Philosophy? Lacan and Deleuze with Terence Blake of Agent Swarm
Nov 8, 2024
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Terence Blake, a scholar with 40 years of expertise in French theory and a key contributor to Agent Swarm, dives into the philosophical complexities of desire through Lacan and Deleuze. He discusses the 'graph of desire' and its implications for identity in our social media age. Blake highlights how rigid beliefs can impede growth and emphasizes the need for self-reflection. The conversation also touches on the interplay between personal identity and communal roles, illustrating how engaging with diverse perspectives enriches philosophical understanding.
The graph of desire serves as an analytical framework, illustrating the interconnectedness of demand, desire, and drive in philosophical inquiry.
Philosophy is portrayed as a cyclic journey, emphasizing the dialectical interplay between knowledge, desire, and the continual questioning of concepts.
Deep dives
Understanding the Graph of Desire
The graph of desire is redefined not only as a diagram illustrating desire but also as an analytical framework connecting philosophy with the psychological theories of Lacan. It breaks down into three components: demand, desire, and drive, which represent different levels of human experience and thought. The discussion highlights the transition from understanding desire as a mere concept to recognizing it as a journey through these three phases. The essence lies in the application of this graph to philosophical inquiry, illustrating how these concepts interconnect with deeper reflections on what constitutes philosophy itself.
The Relation between Deleuze, Guattari, and Lacan
The dialogue expounds on the relationships among the works of Deleuze, Guattari, and Lacan, suggesting that Deleuze and Guattari’s formulations are closely aligned with Lacanian principles, particularly in how they interrogate the purpose and essence of philosophy. The phrase 'What is philosophy?' initially appears as a straightforward query, but is gradually revealed to challenge the foundations of philosophical inquiry itself. Insights gained from Lacan's 'barred subject' resonate with the questions posed by Deleuze and Guattari, indicating that they were aware of the complexities surrounding their own definitions of philosophy. By the conclusion, it becomes evident that their exploration raises critical questions about the limits of inquiry and essentialism in philosophical practice.
The Role of the Ideal Ego in Philosophy
The discussions emphasize the significance of the 'ideal ego' in shaping one’s identity as a philosopher, influencing how individuals perceive themselves and their relationship with the philosophical community. By identifying with role models and investing in certain philosophical ideas, individuals often shape their self-concept and social identity around these figures. This relationship can lead to a connection that transcends mere intellectual engagement, uncovering deeper psychological attachments to ideologies and beliefs. It illustrates the interaction between personal development and social recognition, showing how individuals navigate the philosophical landscape in a manner that reflects both personal aspirations and cultural perceptions.
The Dialectical Nature of Philosophical Inquiry
The interplay between knowledge, desire, and the philosophical drive reveals a dynamic dialectic inherent in the process of philosophical inquiry. Philosophical thought is portrayed not as a linear progression but rather as a cyclic journey, where individuals oscillate between fixed ideas and open-ended exploration. This dialectical process is driven by an inherent sense of incompleteness, suggesting that true philosophical engagement allows for continual questioning and reinterpretation of concepts. Ultimately, the discussion posits that philosophy thrives on this tension, challenging conventional understandings while fostering a deeper engagement with the complexities of both thought and existence.
Sub to Blake's blog here: https://terenceblake.wordpress.com/
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