“The only debatable issue, it seems to me, is whether it is more ridiculous to turn to experts in social theory for general well-confirmed propositions, or to the specialists in the great religions and philosophical systems for insights into fundamental human values.”
Analysis:
In this quote by Noam Chomsky, he questions the value of turning to experts in social theory versus specialists in religion and philosophy for understanding fundamental human values. Chomsky appears to suggest that both experts in social theory and specialists in religion and philosophy offer valuable insights, but leaves it open for debate as to which source is more ridiculous to disregard. This quote highlights the importance of perspective and the diverse range of knowledge that can contribute to our understanding of fundamental values.
Modern Relevance of Noam Chomsky's Quote
In today's world filled with a wealth of information and expertise, the question raised by Noam Chomsky about the value of turning to experts in social theory versus specialists in religion and philosophy for guidance on fundamental human values remains incredibly relevant. Let's explore how this issue plays out in contemporary society.
Noam Chomsky on Turning to Experts for General Well-Confirmed Propositions
"The only debatable issue, it seems to me, is whether it is more ridiculous to turn to experts in social theory for general well-confirmed propositions, or to the specialists in the great religions and philosophical systems for insights into fundamental human values." - Noam Chomsky
Reflecting on the Intersection of Social Theory and Fundamental Human Values
This quote by Noam Chomsky raises thought-provoking questions about the source of knowledge and wisdom when it comes to understanding society and humanity. As we consider this idea, here are some reflection questions to ponder:
**Where do you typically turn for insights on societal issues and human values: social theorists or philosophers/religious leaders? Why do you gravitate towards one over the other?
**How do you integrate the perspectives and teachings of social theorists with those of philosophical or religious thinkers in forming your own beliefs and values?
**Do you believe that expertise in social theory can provide practical solutions for addressing societal challenges, or do you see more value in the timeless wisdom offered by religious and philosophical traditions?
**In your own pursuit of knowledge and understanding, how do you balance the need for empirical evidence and logical reasoning (as offered by social theorists) with the search for deeper truths and moral guidance (as offered by religious and philosophical texts)?
**Ultimately, do you think it is possible to bridge the gap between the insights of social theory and the wisdom of religion/philosophy in a way that enhances our understanding of both society and human values?
Similar quotes
“While any software system introduces some kind of formalization of the world, HCI (like AI) deals with formalizations of human cognition and activity. These are the issues that have lay at the heart of philosophical debate for centuries. In some ways, it would be hard to imagine a more philosophical enterprise.”
“You cannot evade the issue of God, whether you are talking about pigs or the binomial theory...Things can be irrelevant to the proposition that Christianity is false, but nothing can be irrelevant to the proposition that Christianity is true.”
“General systems theory and cybernetics aredeterministic while human actions are not!”
“Generally speaking, the errors in religion are dangerous; those in philosophy only ridiculous.”
“I fully agree with you about the significance and educational value of methodology as well as history and philosophy of science. So many people today - and even professional scientists - seem to me like somebody who has seen thousands of trees but has never seen a forest. A knowledge of the historic and philosophical background gives that kind of independence from prejudices of his generation from which most scientists are suffering. This independence created by philosophical insight is - in my opinion - the mark of distinction between a mere artisan or specialist and a real seeker after truth.[Correspondance to Robert Thorton in 1944]”