There are many people in the world who love to convey their thoughts and ideas to others. Language was the birth of communication, perhaps the most important of the human capabilities to connect with others and survive as a member of a group. Since that birth, the act of sharing what’s internal to the mind has grown immensely. Today we can communicate with a of diverse cast of characters. All humans are living the human experience, same as every other human. The variables are many, different cultures, thriving inside of different parameters built by society over time.
Philosophers are everywhere. My favorite historical philosophers tend to be Nietzsche and Voltaire. I imagine them today, these passionate characters, and they could be anyone. One was an introvert, one was an extrovert. One was direct, one was ironic.
Perhaps today Nietzsche would have been your strange acquaintance at work with the awesome dark memes. Maybe Voltaire would have been the overly enthusiastic friend you meet for coffee, the one always sharing new passions and ideas with you.
Human thought is the same. The ability to read the experiences of fellow humans from vastly different perspective is nothing short of magical.
So where are the philosophers of today?
Everywhere. Look around and you’ll find them in every space.
I picture a Socrates-like character, wrapped haphazardly in a not so-clean toga, unwashed hair frizzled around his head. He is hanging out at his local coffee spot, again. I see him there several times a week. Today I come upon him as he is muttering into his coffee, head down, lost in thought.
Is my first thought…this guy has discovered answers to the mysteries of the universe!? Or is my first thought something more like: “Oh no, not this guy again. This guy and his wacky shiz!” And then a polite nod and a rushed avoidance to avoid a long conversation about life.
I picture an Einstein-esque character. He is sitting on a bench, hunched over, hands upon knees. He seems either deep in thought, or just stoned. Either way, there is absolute magic happening inside his head; but that magic isn’t visible, and actually presents as a little intimidating. He has a sweet mustache and a piercing stare. Kinda hot but sort of scary. He speaks in a language of idea that is not easy to understand. I think he may be a genius or he may be a serial killer. Who knows?
Do I go sit beside him and soak up his ramblings? Or do I avoid him because he is intimidating, not easily understood and maybe a little smelly?
Thought Surrounds Us
Philosophers are everywhere. Absolutely everywhere. Some of them speak their words publicly but many of them work through their theories and concepts alone. If you wish to connect with other humans you don’t have to look to the historical outspoken, find these people in your every day.
The art of philosophy is beautiful. People can be beautiful. People with unique ideas are stunningly beautiful.