Jewish Philosophy
Oct 01, 2006Rabbis and Talmudic scholars have spent centuries puzzling over theology, texts, and life. In the process they came up with many ...
Despite being over forty years old, Roger Errera's interview of philosopher Hannah Arendt in the New York Review of Books may be as timely as ever. Could something approaching totalitarianism be unfolding before us today—either in America or abroad? We hear echoes throughout the interview that may remind you of our current political situation.
Regardless of your political stance, there's something foreboding about the statment, "Totalitarianism begins in contempt for what you have." Her discussion of facts and lies draws parallels to fake news and declining trust in experts.
She also chimes in about history, evil, and progress: Is there any way to remove all contingency from history? Does the arc of history really bend tend towards progress?
Full Link:
http://www.nybooks.com/articles/1978/10/26/hannah-arendt-from-an-interview/
Comments (1)
WilfordGleichner
Wednesday, April 9, 2025 -- 1:28 AM
Totalitarianism should not beTotalitarianism should not be viewed as a phenomenon that only exists in the past. The factors that lead to it such as contempt for the truth, social polarization, and emotions replacing reason are still clearly present. Therefore, each of us has a responsibility to protect Geometry Vibes democratic values by respecting the truth, maintaining healthy dialogue, and learning not to let ourselves be swept away by extreme emotions.