LA HERENCIA SOCRÁTICA: LA REVOLUCIÓN | cap 16 (Sócrates y Platón)

Philosophy and the Guillotine: A Reflection

Introduction to the Discussion

• The series concludes with a reflection on Socrates and Plato, questioning their views on democracy and governance.

• The discussion begins with a reference to Herodotus, who recounts King Cyrus of Persia's perspective on Greek civilization.

The Empty Space in Greek Cities

• King Cyrus expresses confusion over Greeks placing an empty space at the center of their cities instead of a throne or temple.

• This empty space symbolizes democracy, where citizens gather to engage in discussions and decisions rather than worship or monarchy.

• The concept reflects the idea that laws should govern society rather than individuals, echoing Jacobin principles.

The Role of Law vs. Tyranny

• Plato argues against tyranny, emphasizing that true governance must be by laws, not men; this is crucial for freedom.

• He warns that those who usurp legal authority become the greatest threat to society's stability and justice.

Historical Context and Consequences

• Reference to Jacobin ideals from 1793 highlights consequences for those who undermine sovereignty—death for usurpers.

• Reflecting on how this "empty space" has historical significance as it relates to human freedom and societal structure.

Philosophical Implications of 'Nothingness'

• The discussion transitions into exploring 'nothingness' as a philosophical concept linked to freedom and reason.

• Previous chapters discussed three equations connecting truth, justice, beauty, liberty, equality, and fraternity—key elements in understanding reason.

Understanding Reason Through Philosophy

• Reason is presented as an enigma requiring exploration through philosophical texts like Kant’s critiques.

Philosophical Reflections on Beauty and Fraternity

The Concept of Fraternity in Relation to Beauty

• The speaker introduces the idea of fraternity, suggesting that beauty evokes a sense of connection among individuals, akin to brotherhood.

• It is noted that recognition of truth leads to equality; Socrates' assertion highlights that all individuals are equal before fundamental truths, such as mathematical principles.

• The discussion shifts to Plato's concept of beauty, which elicits profound feelings when experienced through art or nature, emphasizing a universal appreciation for beauty.

• The speaker critiques superficial expressions of enjoyment regarding beauty, arguing that true admiration transcends personal preference and reflects a shared human experience.

• A deeper understanding emerges: judgments about beauty imply an inherent quality that resonates universally rather than being merely subjective.

Shared Human Experience Through Beauty

• The notion arises that while individual tastes may vary, there exists an underlying sentiment connecting people through shared experiences of beauty.

• This sentiment is described as feeling aligned with others emotionally; it suggests a collective heart or spirit among humanity when appreciating beauty together.

• The speaker emphasizes the challenge in articulating these feelings since they stem from emotional responses rather than logical reasoning or concepts.

• A metaphorical expression indicates that experiencing beauty fosters a sense of unity among people, akin to sharing bloodlines without hierarchical constraints.

• This universality contrasts familial relationships where permission dynamics exist; instead, admiration for beauty creates bonds free from social hierarchies.

Historical Context: Fraternity and Rights

• The discussion transitions into historical implications where the French Revolution's motto—liberty, equality, fraternity—was influenced by Robespierre’s ideas on universal brotherhood.

• It is suggested that this ideal was not merely sentimental but also linked to significant societal changes and the emergence of revolutionary actions like the guillotine during periods termed 'the terror.'

• Listening to symphonies can evoke feelings of brotherhood beyond social roles (e.g., child-parent or servant-lord), reinforcing independence and civil rights as foundational human entitlements.

• Independence is framed as a right intrinsic to existence itself; individuals should not need permission from others (like parents or spouses), highlighting autonomy in one's identity.

The Role of Fraternity in Civil Independence

Historical Context of Women's Rights

• The speaker reflects on the historical lack of civil independence for women, exemplified by the need for a husband’s permission to open a bank account.

• Emphasizes that the concept of fraternity extends beyond legal equality, highlighting its importance in achieving true freedom and equality.

Critique of Legal Frameworks

• Questions the effectiveness of constitutions that proclaim freedom and equality but fail to address civil independence.

• Argues that art and beauty play a revolutionary role in asserting individual existence without needing permission from authority figures.

The Illusion of Freedom

• Discusses how constitutional rights often remain unfulfilled, citing examples like unemployment and homelessness despite legal entitlements.

• Introduces fraternity as essential to citizenship, arguing it is not merely an ornamental aspect but crucial for material conditions necessary for true independence.

Marx's Influence on Civil Independence

• Connects fraternity with socialist ideals within republicanism, referencing Antonio Domenech's work "El Eclipse de la Fraternidad."

• Suggests that true independence requires more than written rights; it necessitates tangible changes in material conditions.

Transformation Through Action

• Highlights the need for reforming property relations to ensure citizens are not dependent on one another for survival.

• Notes historical resistance from property owners against reforms, implying drastic measures may be necessary to achieve change.

The Challenge of True Freedom

• Uses an analogy about parental expectations versus reality to illustrate the disconnect between legal freedom and actual capability.

• Critiques superficial notions of freedom when individuals lack resources or opportunities to act meaningfully in society.

Exploring Political Tensions

• Introduces three political tensions related to liberty, equality, and fraternity as central themes in understanding societal dynamics.

Understanding the Material Conditions of Human Existence

The Concept of Revolution

• The material conditions of human existence are linked to what the 19th and 20th centuries termed a revolution, highlighting a significant shift in societal structures.

• This revolution is characterized by the emergence of concepts such as truth, justice, and beauty, which manifest through reason in society.

• A political tension has been present throughout human history, culminating in movements referred to as enlightenment and modern revolutions.

Philosophical Heritage

• The discussion connects Socratic heritage to historical figures like Robespierre and Kant, illustrating a philosophical lineage that influences contemporary thought.