Timothy Leary: 'In the information age, you don't teach philosophy as they did after feudalism. You perform it. If Aristotle were alive today he'd have a talk show.'

In the information age, you don't teach philosophy as they did after feudalism. You perform it. If Aristotle were alive today he'd have a talk show.

The quote by Timothy Leary, "In the information age, you don't teach philosophy as they did after feudalism. You perform it. If Aristotle were alive today he'd have a talk show," captures the essence of how the approach to teaching philosophy has evolved in the modern era. Leary suggests that in the information age, traditional methods of teaching philosophy through lecture and discourse have become outdated. Instead, philosophy needs to be lived and experienced, bringing it to life in an engaging and accessible manner. Leary goes as far as suggesting that if Aristotle, the renowned ancient philosopher, were alive today, he would embrace the medium of television and host his own talk show to disseminate philosophical ideas to a wider audience. This quote highlights the need for philosophy to adapt to the times and utilize the tools and platforms available to reach a broader audience.This notion put forth by Leary resonates in the context of the modern era, where information is abundant, easily accessible, and consumed through various channels. Philosophy, being a subject traditionally associated with deep contemplation and intellectual pursuits, can sometimes be perceived as esoteric or even intimidating. However, Leary's suggestion to "perform" philosophy gives it a relatable and interactive quality, potentially bridging the gap between philosophy and everyday life.To further explore the concept of performing philosophy, let's consider the philosophic concept of "existentialism." Unlike the ancient Greek philosophy that Aristotle is associated with, existentialism emerged in the 19th and 20th centuries. It focuses on individual experience, freedom, and the search for meaning in a seemingly absurd world. Existentialism encourages individuals to actively engage with life, taking ownership of their choices and creating their own meaning through personal experiences.By introducing existentialism into the discussion of performing philosophy, we can draw interesting parallels and contrasts. While Aristotelian philosophy explores concepts of logic, ethics, and metaphysics, existentialism takes a more individualistic and experiential approach to understanding the world. Both philosophies, however, share a common goal of seeking knowledge and understanding, albeit through different lenses.In the context of the quote, Aristotle hosting a talk show in the information age aligns with the essence of existentialism, as it emphasizes the importance of active engagement and personal experiences in philosophy. In a talk show format, Aristotle would have the opportunity to interact with guests and discuss philosophical concepts within the context of their real-life experiences, bridging the gap between theory and practice.This envisioned talk show would transcend the boundaries of academia, inviting a wide range of guests from various backgrounds to engage in philosophical conversations. Aristotle's expertise in dissecting complex ideas and his ability to relate them to everyday life would prove valuable in bringing philosophy to a broader audience. Through lively discussions and relatable examples, this talk show could inspire viewers to ponder philosophical questions and explore their own beliefs and values, all while being entertained and engaged.The concept of performing philosophy not only allows for a more accessible approach to disseminating philosophical ideas but also encourages individuals to actively explore and apply these ideas in their own lives. It signifies a departure from the traditional, sometimes passive, methods of teaching philosophy and promotes a more interactive and personal experience with the subject.In conclusion, Leary's quote about performing philosophy in the information age highlights the need to adapt the teaching and dissemination of philosophical ideas. By envisioning Aristotle hosting a talk show, Leary emphasizes the importance of engaging with philosophy in a relatable and accessible manner. Through performing philosophy, we can bridge the gap between theory and practice, encouraging active participation and application of philosophical concepts in our everyday lives. Whether it's Aristotle with a talk show or any other innovative approach, the essence remains the same – philosophy should be lived, experienced, and shared for the benefit of all.