Tag: philosophy

Carrying a doubt for years is a virtue that few possess, and that very few learn to cultivate. And it seems that without it, a true intellectual is not formed. Doubt is an oscillation and also an opening, which is why it differs from certainty, which usually leads to the question being closed. If sustained by a sincere interest, doubt stimulates, and the resulting activity is sometimes more beneficial than finding a possible solution. Dialectical confrontation is the basis of any valuable knowledge; and it seems that, strangely enough, the extension of the former places great value on what can be known.

It is surprising to note that the question of immortality is almost never addressed in the bulk of what is called speculative philosophy. To learn about it, one has to turn to specific works, even though the problem is fundamental to any understanding of existence. In other words: its mere possibility transforms the nature of reality, which speculative philosophy aims to investigate. Without addressing it, without even considering it, a philosophy is mutilated, if not lacking a real foundation. Turning one’s back on the unknown out of alleged prudence is certainly one of the greatest imprudences a philosopher can commit.

For the spirit, there is no stagnation: it either evolves or deteriorates, without even realizing it. And nothing seems to harm it more effectively than the past, when one does not learn to overcome it. There are endless examples of those who, if they have not stopped in time, will not let go of something that has already passed. This is why the spirit becomes detached from reality and the result is degeneration. There are experiences whose intensity, never relived, seems to determine the being. However, since life is movement, “determination” always has repercussions, whether for good or ill.

The sense of duty is, as long as it is put into practice, the most efficient fuel for a satisfying life. Beyond this, however, it is worth highlighting the splendid effects experienced by those who keep the desire to learn burning throughout their lives. It does not matter at what age, it is enough to feel it and the days dawn differently, one wakes up with a different motivation. And the whole process of learning, with its small progress, overcoming difficulties, broadening the horizon of study, makes the days more stimulating and generates the expectation of tomorrow. Similar satisfaction, so long-lasting and so healthy, may not be found in any other way.