The tweet by blu3mo contains an image. The text in the image is in Japanese and discusses the appropriate application of philosophical concepts. It questions what it means to apply philosophical concepts effectively and emphasizes that simply establishing relevance is not enough for constructive discussions.
The text acknowledges the importance of this point. It suggests that merely referencing philosophical concepts does not lead to constructive arguments. Instead, it argues that critically examining existing concepts and reinterpreting them to fit one’s unique problem formulation is crucial for constructive discourse. The key is to reinterpret philosophical concepts in a way that aligns with one’s specific problem context.
For instance, taking the concept of “subjectivity,” its meaning varies greatly among philosophers. Some base it on Descartes’ “Cogito, ergo sum,” while others derive it from Husserl’s “Intentionality.” Wittgenstein might challenge subjectivity from the perspective of the “Private Language,” while Sartre may discuss subjectivity as the freedom of “Being-for-itself.”
The important aspect here is to consider these diverse views on subjectivity while reinterpreting them to align with one’s own problem awareness. It involves positioning the concept of subjectivity within the context of “asymmetry of reality,” giving it a unique significance while drawing from traditional philosophical theories.
Similarly, concepts like “reality” and “asymmetry” also require philosophical reconsideration. Defining “reality” is a fundamental metaphysical issue, and the notion of “asymmetry” has gained attention in recent philosophy of science. By digesting these philosophical discussions and redefining concepts in the context of VR and AI, a specific task of philosophical inquiry emerges.
It is clear that merely relying on classical concepts is insufficient. It is crucial to develop new concepts that address the unique challenges posed by information technology. By creating new concepts that penetrate contemporary problem domains while being informed by traditional philosophical terms, the true creativity in philosophical research is revealed.
In essence, the application of philosophical concepts involves a dual process of critical inheritance and creative transformation. It entails reexamining the meaning of concepts, reinterpreting them within one’s context, and establishing new concepts as needed. Through such diligent exploration, philosophical reflection on the asymmetry of reality is expected to deepen.
Rather than just borrowing concepts, engaging in critical reinterpretation and creative concept construction is the true essence of philosophical research. I believe that exploring how to materialize this process within one’s research context and continuing to brainstorm towards constructive discussions are essential steps in philosophical inquiry.