Contribution To Philosophy Research Articles

An Inquiry on Ancient Natural Theology: The Milesians

Natural theology is a branch of philosophy that employs empirical and logical methods to gain insight into the nature of God and His attributes. The fundamental structure of natural theology is derived from the tenets of religion and the essential concerns of metaphysics, a branch of philosophy. The arguments for the existence of God represent a central aspect of religious discourse. Consequently, natural theology is situated at the nexus of religion and philosophy. The investigation of the nature of God is a pursuit that has been undertaken since the earliest periods of human history. Nevertheless, within the context of Western philosophy, its roots can be traced back to the ancient Greek tradition. In the last century, there has been a tendency to approach the Pre-Socratics with a certain degree of bias. These philosophers have been viewed in two distinct ways: either as evangelists of the prophetic path or as scientists whose focus was solely on nature itself and who made no theological claims. This paper aims to examine the possibility of offering an alternative interpretation of their philosophical contributions from the perspective of natural theology. It is proposed that exploring the historical context could provide new insights into the study of philosophy and religion. Scholars engaged in the field of the philosophy of religion and those specializing in the history of philosophy may gain new perspectives by tracing the footprints of natural theology within the surviving fragments of the Milesian school.

A Study on Baul Lalon Shah's Songs of Humanity in Communication Theory Perspective

This article explores the songs of Baul Lalon Shah, a prominent figure in the classical folklore of 19th-century Bengal under British rule. Lalon's music, deeply rooted in humanism, transcends caste, religion, and social divisions, emphasizing unity, equality, and peace. As a member of the Baul community, Lalon integrated diverse religious philosophies, including Hinduism, Tantric Buddhism, and Sufi Islam, into a unique spiritual discourse centred on humanity. His songs advocate for the primacy of humanism over religious and societal binaries. Despite their profound philosophical contributions, Lalon's songs have not been analyzed using rhetorical methods thoroughly. This study seeks to fill that gap by applying rhetorical analysis to examine the humanistic philosophy embedded in Lalon Shah's works. By doing so, it aims to reveal the enduring significance of his message in Bengali society and contribute to the broader discourse on global humanism. Disseminating these insights can play a transformative role in cultural and philosophical spheres.

Regrounding the Unworldly: Carnap’s Politically Engaged Logical Pluralism

Recent discussions of logical pluralism trace its origins to Rudolf Carnap’s principle of tolerance; indeed, the principle is seen as one of Carnap’s lasting philosophical contributions. In this paper, I will argue that Carnap’s reasons for adopting this principle are not purely logical, but are rather founded in the Vienna Circle’s manifesto—a programmatic document that brings the Circle’s philosophical work together with a program of social change. Building on work by Uebel, Romizi, and others, I argue that we must understand the principle in light of Carnap’s role in writing the manifesto, and thus as integrated into the larger philosophical and political goals of the Circle. This history illuminates the often-ignored relationship between Carnap’s logical pluralism and his political views. Finally, I turn to the political situation of the post-World War 2 period in the United States. During this time, the Circle’s emigres in the USA transitioned their work from active efforts to reform society to the technical work that we recognize as the foundation of American analytic philosophy today. In this final section, I argue that the reasons that Carnap distanced himself from the political foundations of his view were due in large part to McCarthy-era persecution of left-wing academics.

Al-Suhrawardi's Knowledge Construction: A Philosophical Analysis of Illumination, Light, and Isyraqiyah Wisdom

Suhrawardi's Isyraqiyah philosophy emerged as a critique of the perceived limitations within Aristotelian peripatetic philosophy. This study investigates the enduring significance of Suhrawardi’s teachings and their relevance in contemporary philosophical discourse. Employing a qualitative research methodology and an extensive literature review, we analyze Suhrawardi's philosophical contributions towards understanding the complexities of existence. Our findings highlight how Isyraqiyah philosophy promotes tranquility and contemplation, offering a blend of philosophical and spiritual reasoning. This philosophy provides profound insights into the multifaceted nature of existence, guiding individuals in navigating contemporary challenges. Thus, Suhrawardi's Isyraqiyah philosophy remains a vital source of enlightenment and guidance, offering a robust framework for philosophical and spiritual contemplation in modern contexts.

CATÁSTROFE E RESISTÊNCIA NA AMAZÔNIA CONTEMPORÂNEA: uma análise discursiva do conto Mamí tinha razão, de João Meirelles Filho

This communication proposes to analyse, from the perspective of comparative studies and landscape theory, the poem Canción de jinete, by Federico García Lorca, and the Brazilian resistance poetry produced after the military coup of 1964 (Ferreira Gullar, Thiago de Mello, mimeograph generation, etc.). To this end, theoretical and philosophical contributions on landscape and complexity (Claudio Guillén, Michel Collot, Anne Cauquelin, Agustín Berque, Alain Roger, Gilles Deleuze, Manuel Ángel Vázquez-Medel, Èdouard Glissant) will be taken as support to seek parallels and similarities, in the construction of the forbidden landscape, between the Spanish poet and Brazilian poetry. Military dictatorships have disastrous consequences on any community and one of the most persecuted segments, due to its power of persuasion, is the artistic/intellectual. Murders, torture and exile are the main resources used by usurpers to silence the voices of those who resist living under the shadow of totalitarianism. As a cultural construct, the literary landscape is influenced by the space-time circumstances in which the poet finds himself. The landscape apprehended in experiences of oppression and exile records the violence that human beings can exercise in situations of power, remaining as a historical testimony of a tragedy that should not be repeated, nor forgotten.

The Concept of the Absurd: Camus' Literary Exploration of Existential Philosophy

This article explores Albert Camus' literary embodiment of the concept of the absurd within the framework of existential philosophy. By analyzing major works such as "The Stranger," "The Plague," and "The Fall," the article illustrates how Camus articulates the conflict between the human quest for meaning and an indifferent universe. The discussion includes an introduction to existentialism, the definition of the absurd, and the thematic and symbolic elements in Camus' novels. The article also addresses Camus' influence on literature and philosophy, his philosophical contributions, and critiques and interpretations of his work. Ultimately, it highlights the enduring relevance of Camus' exploration of the absurd in contemporary discourse, encouraging readers to engage with his works and the profound questions they pose about meaning, existence, and the human condition.

Sufism Revisited: A Comprehensive Analysis of Emha Ainun Najib’s Philosophical Contributions to Modern Society

This research explores the significant impact of modern Sufi teachings spearheaded by Emha Ainun Najib, or Cak Nun, on the members of Jamaah Maiyah in Indonesia. As a charismatic Muslim intellectual, Cak Nun introduces the concept of Tasawuf into the reality of modern life, emphasizing human values, tolerance, and local cultural heritage. The research employs a qualitative approach with a descriptive method, involving in-depth interviews with members and key figures of Jamaah Maiyah, as well as participatory observation of religious practices in various community activities, such as Pandang Bulan, Bang-bang Wetan, Kedirian, and Kenduri Cinta, held in 2023 in East Java, Indonesia. The findings highlight the positive reception of modern Sufi concepts by Jamaah Maiyah, connected to positive changes in religious practices and daily outlooks. The social and cultural impact manifests in attitudes of tolerance, social concern, and awareness of human values. Cak Nun’s teachings encourage members to engage in personal introspection and achieve a balance between the worldly pursuits and the spiritual endeavors. This research not only demonstrates the relevance of Tasawuf in the modern era but also identifies its contribution in shaping the character and perspectives of religious communities. These findings provide a profound understanding and insights into how modern Sufi teachings can act as a positive force in fostering positive attitudes and values in the contemporary society.

Spinozas Role in Reshaping the Concepts of Power and Rights of Freedom

This paper examines Spinoza's philosophical contributions to the discussion on democratic governance, emphasising his endorsement of individual autonomy, reason, and natural law, while also criticising authoritarianism. Spinoza's views provide valuable insights into the intricate relationship between human nature, societal structures, and political authority, within the context of historical discussions on freedom and governance. The research seeks to clarify the potential consequences of Spinoza's philosophical framework for modern political thought and practice through analysis. Spinoza argues that persons, being a part of nature, are subject to its laws and have intrinsic entitlements to self-preservation and liberty. He promotes the use of reason in guiding individual behaviour and society organisation, emphasising the significance of rational government. Nevertheless, Spinoza's theory exposes its shortcomings in addressing social disparities and systematic injustices, hence reproducing the biases prevalent throughout his day. Notwithstanding these limitations, his focus on rationality and freedom continues to have a significant impact on current debates over democracy, rights, and social justice. This study enhances our comprehension of the intricacies related to freedom, governance, and societal progress by conducting a thorough examination of Spinoza's works and relevant secondary sources.

Spinozas Role in Reshaping the Concepts of Power and Rights of Freedom

This paper examines Spinoza's philosophical contributions to the discussion on democratic governance, emphasising his endorsement of individual autonomy, reason, and natural law, while also criticising authoritarianism. Spinoza's views provide valuable insights into the intricate relationship between human nature, societal structures, and political authority, within the context of historical discussions on freedom and governance. The research seeks to clarify the potential consequences of Spinoza's philosophical framework for modern political thought and practice through analysis. Spinoza argues that persons, being a part of nature, are subject to its laws and have intrinsic entitlements to self-preservation and liberty. He promotes the use of reason in guiding individual behaviour and society organisation, emphasising the significance of rational government. Nevertheless, Spinoza's theory exposes its shortcomings in addressing social disparities and systematic injustices, hence reproducing the biases prevalent throughout his day. Notwithstanding these limitations, his focus on rationality and freedom continues to have a significant impact on current debates over democracy, rights, and social justice. This study enhances our comprehension of the intricacies related to freedom, governance, and societal progress by conducting a thorough examination of Spinoza's works and relevant secondary sources.

Philosophical Foundations of the Critical Theory from the Americas on the Social Philosophies of Bolívar Echeverría and Adolfo Sánchez Vázquez

ABSTRACT This article wants to expose some central contributions for a critical theory from the Americas, made first of all from the Ecuadorian-Mexican philosopher Bolívar Echeverría and also by the Spanish-Mexican philosopher Adolfo Sánchez Vázquez, bringing them to an imaginary discussion with Alfred Schmidt, Karl Marx, and some concepts of the original critical theory from the now one-hundred-year-old Frankfurt school. The relationship between use value and value, the critique of some Eurocentric “philosophical” ideas inside nonmainstream theories are some of the departing points. A critical theory from the Americas could be a first step toward the necessary philosophical contributions for a postcapitalist society that may exist without the Today’s self-destructive impulse. It helps not only to understand the world outside the so-called First World in a more exact way, but it helps also to understand the centers of global power in a better way, as their self-consciousness is now probably on the lowest level ever.

“Kings more than Men, Men less then Beasts”: a discussion of the rise and fall of the Ottoman Empire in Fulke Greville’s Treatises

Fulke Greville (1554-1628), stood as a prominent figure in the realms of English statesmanship, courtly life, and poetry during the late Elizabethan and early Jacobean periods. Maintaining a consistent presence in the courts of Elizabeth I, James I and Charles I, Greville had a unique vantage point to observe the intricacies of courtly circles in early modern England. His sharp intellect and literary passion, coupled with his involvement in Elizabethan and Jacobean politics, elevated him to the status of one of the foremost philosopher-poets of his era. In Turkish scholarship, considerable attention has been given to Greville’s Mustapha (1610), which explores the touching theme of the execution of Şehzade Mustafa, at the command of his father Süleyman the Magnificent. While this work has been extensively discussed, Greville's treatises, offering insights into his political and philosophical perspectives on contentious issues of his time such as sovereignty, kingship, tyranny, and just rule, have not received comparable examination. Notably, his treatises Of Monarchy and Of Warres provide a comprehensive exposition of his thoughts on the rise and fall of the Ottoman state. This article, therefore aims to present a more nuanced exploration of Fulke Greville’s ideas concerning the Ottoman Empire, shedding light on his broader philosophical contributions beyond the well-discussed Mustapha. A close reading of his Treatises indicates that Greville's interest in the Ottoman State and its history was intertwined with his political stance on a pressing concern for the English court—the rivalry with Spain and the broader Catholic world.

Commerce, labour and happiness: An Existential reading of Adam Smith’s ‘The poor man’s son’

This article highlights the philosophical contribution of an existential reading of Adam Smith’s narrative of ‘The poor man’s son’ that opens transdisciplinary research themes. The narrative in Adam Smith’s The Theory of Moral Sentiments [1759] deals with the issue of labour and happiness in commercial society, an important contemporary topic in meaningful labour research. This field is dominated by research on labour’s personal or moral value, which may lead to personal and workplace conflicts in case of ethical dilemmas. Recent research advocates existentialism, underscoring authenticity in workplace meaningful labour. The problem is that some of these studies limit meaning of employees’ reception of workplace policies and other events, resulting in a dualism between surface and deep existentialism. I will argue that an existential reading of the narrative ‘The poor man’s son’ contributes to transdisciplinary research by advancing research in commerce, specifically existential meaningful labour, by advocating an integrative theory of labour and happiness. The insights from Jean-Paul Sartre concerning anguish, authenticity, freedom, and facticity challenge the assumption that the son’s labour was meaningless because of the misery he experienced during old age, supporting a view that his choices were an expression of his freedom of choice and authenticity, and not determined by circumstances that provide important insights for an integrative theory of meaningful labour that prioritises the anguish of ontological freedom, consciousness as the source of freedom and facticity as hurdles to be surmounted on the path to fulfilment.Transdisciplinary contribution: The article is an intersection between philosophy and commerce by promoting insights from existentialism to read ‘The poor man’s son’ in Adam Smith’s The Theory of Moral Sentiments, providing insights for an integrative theory of meaningful labour and happiness.

From Mythos to Logos: Pre-Socratic Philosophers and the Birth of Rational Inquiry

This paper examines the important shift from mythological to philosophical thought instigated by pre-Socratic philosophers in ancient Greece by examining influential figures such as Thales, Anaximander, and Heraclitus in their pioneering efforts at rational analysis. The theories of these philosophers challenged the traditional mythical descriptions of the universe and man's existence, initiating the paradigm shift from mythos (myth) to logos (logic) that reshaped philosophical discourse and laid the foundations for Western philosophical traditions. This paper seeks to reveal the nature of pre-Socratic rational thought and its lasting impact on the history of Western philosophy. It emphasizes the importance of the contributions of pre-Socratic philosophers to the promotion of critical thinking, empiricism, and logical reasoning. Finally, the paper emphasizes the role of the pre-Socratic period in the development of Western philosophy and philosophical approaches to inquiry.

Interdisciplinary Investigations at the Intersection of Philosophy and Translation Studies

This article provides an overview of the challenges faced at the intersection of philosophy and translation studies. The interdisciplinary scope under consideration covers philosophical contributions to theoretical investigation of translation, which are substantively grounded in the experiences of practicing translators, amongst whom are philosophers. Furthermore, the paper emphasizes the prominent role of philosophy in establishing the fundamental conditions and concepts of translation, and addresses the numerous philosophical approaches contributing to the interdisciplinary discourse on the nature of translation. Considerable attention is given to metaphysical and epistemological points that seem to play a significant role in conceptualising translation issues and establishing the theoretical foundations of translation studies, as well as in providing a deeper insight into the translation process. On the whole, the philosophisation of the translation phenomenon contributes to the substantial growth of both philosophical thought and translation studies.

Unravelling the Interplay between Materials, Senses and Perception in Magdalena Abakanowicz’s Weaving Art

This article comprehensively studies the multisensual experience in Magdalena Abakanowicz’s weaving art. While previous research in this context has focused on the erotic nature of her works, this study addresses the broader aspect of multisensual engagement. Drawing on a phenomenological approach and the philosophical contributions of Maurice Merleau-Ponty, it explores Abakanowicz’s involvement in creative and exhibition practices. The research incorporates insights from scholars such as Richard Shusterman, Mark Paterson and art historians. Using art historical analysis and direct haptic contact with Abakanowicz’s works, the study analyses the materials and techniques of three fabric types. The findings reveal that the enduring interest in the artist’s work lies in anthropomorphising quality that activates viewers’ senses, fostering a profound connection between the audience and art. The article demonstrates how Abakanowicz skilfully influences viewers’ senses and emotions through material choices, techniques, and personal involvement. Ultimately, it highlights the significance of considering sensory reflection as a crucial aspect of art historical analysis.

African Philosophical Contributions to International Criminal Law

Abstract This article displays the various ways that African philosophies have made a contribution to international criminal law. It shows that African philosophies have, to a certain extent, influenced the manner in which post-conflict African states as well as the African Union (au) address accountability for grave breaches of international law. This influence is evidenced in the setting up of traditional African approaches to accountability for international crimes in post-conflict African states as well as in some of the au initiatives which address accountability for grave breaches. The article begins by contextualizing the topic within traditional African cultures through a historical analysis of the practices, concepts and institutions that governed criminal accountability as well as an analysis of the African philosophies upon which these practices, concepts and institutions were anchored. It continues with the concern of ‘how’ and ‘to what extent’ African philosophies have influenced international criminal law. Moreover, it considers some of the controversial areas of international criminal law in which African philosophies are overlooked, despite their potential to make a valuable contribution. This section is supported by the belief that a combined approach to international criminal law, of both traditional African and Western concepts, offers a better solution to the current impasse experienced in certain areas.

THE ABSOLUTE VALUE OF LIFE IS THE FUNDAMENTAL PRINCIPLE OF MODERN ENVIRONMENTAL ETHICS

Actual scientific researches and issues analysis. It is impossible to imagine solving modern environmental problems without studying the problems of environmental ethics and moral philosophy. Publications on environmental ethics and ethics of responsibility are available from H. Jonas, O. Leopold, and A. Schweitzer. They create an ontological ethics of values, where existence and preservation of existence occupy a central place. The concept of preservation of existence is supported by: A. Schopenhauer, A. Schweitzer, T. Mayer. Problems of the interaction of environmental ethics and science are put forward by O. Geffe, R. Holfeld, Y. Rau, I. Vogel and others. Ukrainian philosophers explore the principles of responsible politics, environmental ethics, philosophical problems of environmental education, philosophy of education: T. Hardashuk, O. Bazaluk, V. Baranivskyi, H. Berehova, V. Gur, A. Yermolenko, Z. Samchuk, M. Kiselyov, V. Krysachenko, K. Korsak, T. Chornoshtan and others. But regardless the significant contribution of philosophers, questions of environmental ethics, ethics for environmental education always need consideration. The research objective. Show the necessity of the concept of ecovitalism for environmental ethics and its methodological foundations. Consider the formation of environmental ethics on the basis of the absolute value of life, which has an impact on the formation of life-value orientations of modern people, the implementation of the main values of environmental ethics in practice. Realize that the future of humanity depends on whether it realizes the need for environmental ethics, environmental responsibility, ecologically appropriate behavior to preserve life on our planet. The statement of basic materials. The article examines the concept of ecovitalism, which is the basis of environmental ethics, primarily as an ecological support for life, focused not simply on the preservation of its natural foundations, but on the historically formed social attitude to nature as a value. At the same time, human activity, as a morally regulated life activity, is not based on purely natural determinations, but in a new quality of the natural-historical process, the basis of which is not nature itself, but the value of nature as a derivative of social progress. This gives grounds for asserting that the absolute value of life has becomes the main basis of modern environmental ethics. It is shown that environmental ethics is an important aspect in the formation of environmental education and creates new values for the preservation of human existence.

Philosophy's Role in Theorizing Psychopathology

Abstract: It is a mistake to think that any philosophical contribution to the study of psychopathology is otiose. I identify three non-exhaustive roles that philosophy can and does occupy in the study of mental disorder, which I call the agenda-setting role, the synthetic role, and the regulative role. The three roles are illustrated via consideration of the importance of Jaspers' notion of understanding and its application to specific examples of mental disorder, including delusions of reference, Capgras delusion and other monothematic delusions, and clinical depression. Together the three roles assign to philosophy of psychopathology the task of determining how to situate the varieties of mental disorder within the system of interpretive and evaluative concepts that partially make up the dynamic but indispensable manifest image.

Metaphor and Poetic Expression in the Poetry of Sri Aurobindo

Renowned as a multifaceted figure in the 20th century, Sri Aurobindo engaged deeply in aesthetics, poetics, and Vedic and Upanishadic interpretations. His extensive writings spanned various disciplines, emphasizing the significance of literary discourse shaped by figurative thought in understanding human experience. This paper explores the pivotal role of metaphor in both common and literary discourse, offering a contemporary analysis of Sri Aurobindo's poetry. His philosophical contributions present an alternative to foundational ontological and epistemological assumptions in contemporary scientific thought. Using compelling metaphors, Sri Aurobindo illustrates the concealed depths of the mind and ego, comparing them to a temple crown emerging from waves. He envisions humanity as more than its conscious awareness, describing the momentary personality as a mere bubble on the vast ocean of existence. Sri Aurobindo's pursuit of elevated states of consciousness underscores his commitment to transformative exploration.

Traditional ecological culture of China and Kyrgyzstan as a fundamental basis for the development of modern ecological civilization

Relevance. The relevance of this study is due to the deteriorating environmental situation both globally and in Kyrgyzstan and China.Purpose. This article aims to examine the traditional ecological cultures of these countries and compare them in order to identify the most sustainable and harmonious way of coexistence between society and nature.Methodology. Comparison was chosen as the leading method of research of this problem, which allowed for a comprehensive comparison of all key elements of the traditional ecological cultures of Kyrgyzstan and China. The following were also used: analysis, historical method, synthesis, method of systematization, deduction, and classification.Results. The study revealed the essence of the traditional ecological cultures of China and Kyrgyzstan, their historical roots and sources of formation, analysed the contribution of classical Chinese philosophers to the development of the philosophy of reverence for nature, and cited quotes from their works reflecting the desire for balance and harmony in the use of natural resources. The study also revealed the historical background and symbols embodying respect for nature among the Kyrgyz, revealing the influence of shamanism and animism on the ecological culture of this people. The paper described the symbolic aspects related to animals and revealed their significance for the ancient Kyrgyz. A detailed comparison of the traditional ecological cultures of China and Kyrgyzstan included analyses of historical, natural, religious and social factors, which made it possible to identify the key features and principles underlying the harmonious relationship between man and nature in these countries.Conclusions. The research materials can be integrated into contemporary environmental policy and practice, as they reveal valuable knowledge for promoting a sustainable ecological future of society.