@Patty phil,
Patty wrote:These problems, conduct, governance, knowledge, are undeniably what problems man in reality... But is it really possible to find consonance among these three without finding a connection or external reason...
The ultimate question is who or what is the bigger umbrella that harmonizes and finds connection with regard to these three problems?
I don't know that there is one that harmonizes thoroughly. You mentioned "reason" as a potential 'harmonizer'; the only other I could think of would be
Utility; but that, too, is a stretch. My gut says there probably isn't a single binding factor to your three areas. Conduct - to my mind - has to be based in respect for the individual to do any good at all. Knowledge, also, is worthless if based upon only one premise (e.g., evidential or rational). Governance is a whole other ball of wax.
So I'd say that given the framework of your question; Reason (which could involve as many other 'aspects' as is necessary)
is the closest you'll come to finding one common denominator that could serve as a basis for your "top three". Interesting question though; very unique.
Fido wrote:Complete beings do not do philosophy...Look at how many happy relationships philosophy has spawned... Socrates lived in a culvert... The closest Nietzsche ever got to a romance was a prostitute... Most people live in their emotions... Philosophers live in their thoughts, and it makes them rare and stupid, because they cannot see what everyone feels...
Awww... Fido: So I take it you don't see much use for philosophy in achieving a happier, more peaceful or 'fulfilled' life? :saddened:
That last sentence is a bit over the edge. You might be well justified in claiming philosophy makes
some "rare and stupid" or
some"Philosophers live in their thoughts"; but as is, both remain unjustified, unsubstantiated generalizations. Unless; of course, you happen to have personally & intimately known all philosophers who've ever lived (in which case I'll both beg your pardon and ask for your autograph).
In any case, these sentiments are well inline with the topic. Still, I have to wonder: How is it that you've come to such a negative view of philosophers, philosophy (in general) and their place in the world? How is it that one isn't "complete" if they "do philosophy"? In my experience - unless someone goes too far over the edge in philosophical pondering - philosophy is just about
the best way to enable becoming complete, in touch (or at least appreciative) with their emotions and intelligence (i.e., not stupid). Help!
Thanks