Philosophy vs. Political Opinion: A Personal Journey
My journey into the world of philosophy and politics began with a simultaneous study of political science and philosophy. I delved deep into the intricacies of both subjects. The overlap between the two became glaringly apparent when I enrolled in a “Political Philosophy” class in the Political Science department and a “Philosophy of Politics” class in the Philosophy department in the same semester.
This unique experience prompted me to contemplate the true distinction between philosophy and political opinion. How were they related, and how were they different?
A Singular Viewpoint vs. Interpersonal Communication
After much reflection and analysis through different lenses, I arrived at a conclusion: Philosophy is an individual thing; it is a viewpoint that one holds about the best way of life for oneself and the people around them.
Politics, on the other hand, comes into play as soon as you start to communicate with someone else. This distinction is rooted in the etymology of the word ‘platicar,’ meaning ‘to speak, which is tied back to the word ‘politics’.
Holding Court For You
Another term that illustrates the connection between communication, philosophy, and politics is ‘holding court.’ It is used to describe the act of engaging in conversation and sharing one’s opinions or beliefs with a group of people.
This term underscores the idea that sharing one’s philosophy, whether it be in a formal or informal setting, is inherently a political act. It involves the exercise of influence and the negotiation of shared understandings and agreements.
Everyone has their own personal philosophy about life. Personal philosophies are influenced by various factors. They are then expressed in ways that can be either similar or wildly different from others. Once someone interacts with another person, that interaction becomes politics.
Communication and Politics
The act of communication is inherently political because it involves the exchange of ideas, the negotiation of values, and the shaping of collective decisions.
When we communicate our personal philosophy to others, we are not merely sharing our beliefs. We are engaging in a process of influence and persuasion. This process involves navigating differences, finding common ground, and building consensus. It is through this interaction that our individual philosophies become part of the broader political discourse.
Moreover, the way we communicate our philosophy, the language we use, and the manner in which we engage with others are all influenced by the political context in which we operate.
Therefore, while philosophy is a personal belief system that guides our individual actions and decisions, politics is the arena in which these philosophies are expressed, debated, and ultimately translated into collective action.
Ways Philosophies are Expressed
Communication is not limited to verbal expression; it encompasses all forms of communication, including non-verbal cues. I firmly believe that one’s personal philosophy is apparent in the way one carries oneself as we navigate the world. Often, it’s reflected in how we express ourselves when interacting with others.
In essence, philosophy is a thought or belief about what one believes to be the best way to live life, while politics begins as soon as one starts communicating with someone else.
The intersection of Philosophy and Politics
Michel Foucault’s works, such as “Discipline and Punish” and “The Birth of Biopolitics,” illustrate the interconnectedness of philosophy and political science by demonstrating how philosophical concepts are deeply embedded in political structures and practices.
1. Power and Knowledge:
Foucault is perhaps best known for his analysis of power and knowledge, and how they are interrelated. He argued that power is not just a top-down force exerted by the state or institutions, but is diffused throughout society and is often self-imposed by individuals. This concept has had a significant impact on both political science and philosophy.
2. Discourse:
Foucault’s analysis of discourse, or the way language and knowledge are used to construct reality, has influenced both philosophy and political science. He argued that discourse shapes our understanding of the world and, in turn, influences power structures and social norms.
3. Biopolitics:
Foucault also developed the concept of biopolitics, which examines the way states regulate individuals not only through law and politics but also through the management of life itself, such as public health, medicine, and various forms of surveillance.
Conclusion
Understanding the distinction between philosophy and political opinion is essential for navigating the complexities of human interaction and society. While our personal philosophy shapes our beliefs about the best way to live, politics comes into play as soon as we start communicating and interacting with others.
This realization underscores the importance of fostering healthy communication and being mindful of the impact of our interactions on the world around us.
As we move forward, let us strive to cultivate a personal philosophy that guides us toward a fulfilling life while engaging in politics with empathy, respect, and a desire to create a better world for all.
Keep reading about my philosophy around the interconnection of philosophy and politics in this blog: How You Do Anything is How You Do Everything
Read more about other philosopher’s opinions on this subject in these books:
The Ecology of Freedom – Murray Bookchin
