The Evolving Landscape of Philosophy: Challenges and New Approaches

Why is the world not producing any great philosophers now? The short answer is the large number of obstacles that limited the extent of the use of the question 'Why'.

Distorted by the logical positivist philosophy in conjunction with the great scientific revolution in the twentieth century, the philosophy as a whole was met with significant restrictions. Philosophers were asked to purify their cognitive production from metaphysics and illusion, ostensibly to improve the quality and clarity of their work. Consequently, much of the philosophical production in the twentieth century can be described as methodologies for thinking and research rather than genuine philosophizing and engagement with big ideas.

The Impact of Logical Positivism on Philosophical Production

With a radical stance towards metaphysics, philosophical production has been affected not only quantitatively but qualitatively as well. This attempt to cleanse philosophy has led to a narrow focus on epistemology and science-specific logic at the expense of broader, more profound questions. This has resulted in a dry, procedural mode of thinking that lacks the imagination and depth necessary for great philosophical works.

Re-envisioning the Role of Metaphysics in Philosophy

Given the significant divide and conflict between philosophy and the natural sciences over centuries, metaphysics has been largely excluded from scientific discourse and confined to narrow tasks such as epistemology and specific logical methodologies.

However, by re-evaluating the role of metaphysics, we can open up new avenues for philosophical exploration. Metaphysics is not a foreign concept in scientific theories; on the contrary, it often underpins the premises and foundations of these theories, and occasionally finds expression in their results. Some philosophers have delved deeply into metaphysics, even giving it precedence over human reality.

Thus, the traditional view that limits metaphysics to a mere supporting role is not without its flaws. It is time to challenge this perspective and propose an alternative: the concept of economical, pragmatic, and frugal metaphysics.

Economical, Pragmatic, and Frugal Metaphysics

The concept of economical, pragmatic, and frugal metaphysics is straightforward yet powerful. It suggests that when a philosopher or scientist is studying or formulating a concept or theory, they must apply two fundamental criteria to the use of metaphysics:

Economy of Use: Metaphysical concepts should be used sparingly and effectively, prioritizing scientific and logical principles. When a notion from metaphysics is required to maintain the coherence of a theory or explanation, its use must be strictly limited to what is necessary. Pragmatism: This limited and appropriate use of metaphysics must serve an ultimate benefit. Whether it is in advancing scientific progress or benefiting human society, the application of metaphysics in a philosophy should have tangible, real-world consequences.

This approach allows for a more flexible and fruitful integration of metaphysical concepts into the realm of natural, human, and social sciences, providing a bridge between the abstract and the practical.

Conclusion

By embracing an economically, pragmatic, and frugal view of metaphysics, we can foster a more dynamic, inclusive, and impactful philosophy. This re-envisioned role of metaphysics opens the door to rethinking the scope and relevance of philosophy in the contemporary world, and in doing so, we may well discover great philosophers in our time.