Gilles Deleuze: 'What we should in fact do, is stop allowing philosophers to reflect 'on' things. The philosopher creates, he doesn't reflect.'
What we should in fact do, is stop allowing philosophers to reflect 'on' things. The philosopher creates, he doesn't reflect.
The quote by Gilles Deleuze, "What we should in fact do is stop allowing philosophers to reflect 'on' things. The philosopher creates, he doesn't reflect," is a powerful statement that challenges the traditional role of philosophers in society. In a straightforward sense, Deleuze emphasizes the need for philosophers to go beyond mere reflection and engage in the act of creation. This perspective introduces the idea that philosophers should not settle for simply pondering over existing ideas; instead, they should actively contribute to the development of new ideas and concepts.To truly grasp the importance of Deleuze's quote, we must explore its underlying implications. Traditionally, philosophers have been seen as thoughtful observers, tasked with contemplating and analyzing the world around them. However, Deleuze challenges this passive role and argues that philosophers have the capacity to be more than observers – they can be active agents of change and creation.This perspective finds resonance in an unexpected concept: the symbiosis between chaos and order. While chaos and order are seemingly opposing forces, they are interconnected and reliant on each other. This philosophical concept suggests that true creation and innovation arise from the delicate balance between chaos, which represents the unpredictable and uncharted, and order, which brings structure and coherence.In light of this concept, when Deleuze argues that philosophers should create rather than reflect, he is urging them to embrace chaos. By venturing into unexplored territories and challenging established norms, philosophers can tap into the creative potential within themselves. Rather than passively observing and reflecting on existing ideas, they can contribute to the production of new knowledge and perspectives.This perspective opens up exciting possibilities for philosophers to have a tangible impact on society. It moves them away from the realm of detached theorizing and brings them closer to the realm of practical application. By actively engaging in the act of creation, philosophers can contribute to the development of innovative solutions for the challenges we face as individuals and as a society.Moreover, by embracing the role of creators, philosophers can foster a culture of curiosity, imagination, and critical thinking. They can inspire others to question the status quo, explore new possibilities, and create for themselves. This transformative power of philosophy highlights the importance of viewing philosophers not merely as thinkers but as active creators who shape the world around them.In contrast to the traditional perception of philosophers as detached and removed from the practical concerns of society, Deleuze's quote challenges them to transcend the confines of reflection and enter the realm of creation. By embracing chaos and actively engaging with the world, philosophers can contribute to the generation of new ideas, concepts, and perspectives that help us navigate and understand the complexities of our existence.In conclusion, Gilles Deleuze's quote provokes a shift in our understanding of the role of philosophers. It urges philosophers to transcend reflection and cultivate their innate ability to create. By embracing chaos and engaging in the act of creation, philosophers can become pioneers of new ideas and agents of change in society. This perspective encourages us to view philosophers not as passive observers but as active creators who have the potential to shape the world around them. It emphasizes the transformative power of philosophy and highlights the importance of fostering a culture that celebrates curiosity, imagination, and critical thinking.