David Solomon on Political Engagement
TL;DR
David Solomon views political engagement through the lens of ethics and spirituality, often referencing historical thinkers during times of societal stress.
Key Points
David Salomon discussed finding a 'reset button' for self-reflection during the pandemic through the lens of major Western religious traditions.
He explored how thinkers like D.H. Lawrence wrote about humanity losing its center during periods of upheaval, like World War I and the Spanish flu.
His reflection on philosophy and art during crisis often centers on reexamining what makes us human and how to relate better to each other.
Summary
David Solomon, a philosophy professor, connects societal reflection, which can be prompted by crises like a pandemic, to a necessary 'reset button' found in major Western religions and philosophical thought. He finds value in the reflective practices of Judaism (Shemittah), Christianity (Lent), and Islam (Ramadan), suggesting that secular society has moved too far from these mandated periods of pause and contemplation. His approach to political or societal concern is often framed by deep reflection on what it means to be human and how to better relate to one another, sometimes drawing parallels to historical periods of upheaval.
He has discussed how periods of extreme stress or societal change encourage a deep re-examination of personal and collective values, citing historical figures who wrote during times of world war and pandemic to illustrate the human need to remain hopeful amid disconcerting world events. While his work touches upon the outcomes of political and cultural battles, his primary focus regarding engagement seems to be on the ethical and philosophical underpinnings of individual and community behavior rather than specific partisan politics.
Key Quotes
They're not neutral on peace, and we're not neutral on life.
The idea of anything other than freedom of information is both alien and absurd to this rising generation.
Frequently Asked Questions
David Solomon generally approaches political engagement through an ethical and philosophical lens, rather than focusing on specific partisan actions. He emphasizes the need for societal reflection, often inspired by religious practices or historical thinkers during times of stress.
David Solomon has reflected on the writings of various philosophers and artists who wrote during times of significant societal stress. This includes referencing poets and novelists who explored the human condition amid conflict and upheaval.
He saw the pandemic as an opportunity for society to hit a 'reset button,' prompting deep self-reflection on human nature and our relationship to one another. This reflection, he notes, has historical parallels in spiritual practices.