Helen Keller: 'The heresy of one age becomes the orthodoxy of the next.'

The heresy of one age becomes the orthodoxy of the next.

"The heresy of one age becomes the orthodoxy of the next." This insightful quote by Helen Keller encapsulates the ever-evolving nature of society's beliefs and values. At first glance, it suggests that unconventional or even controversial ideas that are denounced as heresy in one era often go on to be widely accepted as the truth or mainstream thinking in the future. However, to delve further into this concept, we can introduce the intriguing philosophical concept of the Hegelian dialectic.The Hegelian dialectic, formulated by the German philosopher Georg Wilhelm Friedrich Hegel, posits that societal progress occurs through a process of thesis, antithesis, and synthesis. According to this theory, a prevailing belief or idea (the thesis) is inevitably challenged by opposing viewpoints (the antithesis). This clash of ideas gives rise to a synthesis, which incorporates elements from both sides, resulting in a new thesis. In this way, the Hegelian dialectic mirrors Keller's quote, as it explains how what was once considered heresy can become orthodoxy in the evolution of societal thought.This concept of the Hegelian dialectic helps us understand the intricate dynamics of intellectual progress. It highlights the importance of questioning established norms and challenging the status quo. Society is a constantly evolving entity, and its progress hinges on the willingness of its members to engage in critical thinking and explore alternative perspectives.Throughout history, countless examples illustrate how heretical ideas eventually morph into accepted truths. The notion that the Earth revolves around the Sun, for instance, was initially met with fierce opposition and branded as heresy. Scientists like Galileo Galilei were condemned, yet, over time, the evidence for a heliocentric model became too compelling to ignore, leading to a widespread acceptance of this idea.Similarly, the concept of equality among races and genders was once considered heretical. Slavery, segregation, and discrimination were widely accepted practices that only a few dissenters dared to challenge. However, through the relentless efforts of abolitionists and activists, these heretical notions slowly gained traction and became the bedrock of modern human rights movements.The transformation of heresy into orthodoxy can also be seen in the realm of art and culture. Many artistic movements that were initially scorned, such as Impressionism or Cubism, ultimately became central to the artistic canon. These groundbreaking styles shook the foundations of traditional art, challenging established norms and pushing the boundaries of creativity.In essence, Keller's quote captures the essence of societal progress. It reminds us that remarkable breakthroughs and paradigm shifts often emerge from unconventional, even heretical, ideas. It calls for open-mindedness, a willingness to question the status quo, and an embrace of new perspectives.However, we must also acknowledge the potential dangers of blindly accepting heresy as the next orthodoxy. While society benefits from challenging established beliefs, it is crucial to approach new ideas with critical analysis and discernment. Not all heretical ideas necessarily lead to progress; some may be detrimental or regressive.Therefore, as we navigate the ever-changing landscape of intellectual thought, it is essential to strike a harmonious balance between embracing novelty and preserving the lessons learned from the past. This delicate balancing act enables us to continue evolving while drawing upon the wisdom gained from previous generations.In conclusion, Helen Keller's quote, "The heresy of one age becomes the orthodoxy of the next," encapsulates the dynamic nature of societal beliefs and values. Expanding upon this notion, the introduction of the Hegelian dialectic enriches our understanding of how heretical ideas eventually shape the orthodoxy of the future. Throughout history, we have witnessed countless examples of once-unpopular ideas transcending conventional boundaries to become widely accepted truths. However, we must approach these shifts with critical analysis, ensuring that progress is accompanied by discernment. By embracing novelty while drawing upon the wisdom of the past, we can navigate the ever-changing landscape of human thought and propel society forward.