"What Is Philosophy?" by Gilles Deleuze provides a thought-provoking exploration of the essence and purpose of philosophy. Deleuze and Guattari argue that philosophy goes beyond being just an academic discipline or a collection of abstract ideas, but rather a creative endeavor that impacts every facet of our lives. They assert that philosophy is a way of thinking that enables us to comprehend the world and ourselves.
The book commences by examining the distinctions between philosophy, science, and art. Deleuze and Guattari emphasize the role of creativity in philosophy, asserting its resemblance to art rather than science. They argue that philosophy is an intellectual practice that embraces ambiguity and aims to forge new concepts and modes of thinking. Furthermore, they delve into the relationship between philosophy and other fields of knowledge, such as literature and mathematics.
Throughout the book, Deleuze and Guattari introduce concepts like "conceptual personae" and "assemblages" to elucidate their understanding of philosophy. They explore the significance of concepts as tools for thinking, and how they interact with one another. Additionally, they examine the notion of assemblages, dynamic arrangements of elements that shape our perception of the world. They contend that philosophy should not be confined to abstract speculation, but should actively engage with the complexities of the world.
Available on Audible
In addition to discussing the nature of philosophy, Deleuze and Guattari also address its significance. They argue that philosophy plays a crucial role in critiquing established systems of thought and exploring new possibilities. They believe that philosophy can assist us in navigating the intricacies of existence and provide fresh perspectives on ourselves and the world. They advocate for a philosophy that is open, creative, and attuned to the multiplicity of life.
"What Is Philosophy?" serves as a challenging yet rewarding read for those who wish to delve deeper into the essence of philosophy. Deleuze and Guattari offer insights and perspectives that shed light on the transformative power of philosophical thinking and its relevance to our lives. This book encourages readers to question conventional norms and engage with philosophy as an active, creative practice.
What are readers saying?
"What Is Philosophy?" by Gilles Deleuze is an intriguing and intricate exploration of the nature and purpose of philosophy. The book has garnered a range of reviews, with some praising its depth and originality, while others find it challenging and hard to comprehend.
Many reviewers appreciate the profound ideas presented in "What Is Philosophy?" They commend Deleuze for his unique perspective on philosophy and his ability to delve into intricate concepts. Readers find the book intellectually stimulating and captivating, pushing the boundaries of traditional philosophical thought.
Some reviewers highlight Deleuze's argument that philosophy is not solely concerned with abstract concepts, but also with developing concepts that challenge existing social and cultural norms. They find his emphasis on the creative aspect of philosophy refreshing and inspiring, encouraging readers to think critically and question established beliefs.
However, the book is not without its critics. Some readers find Deleuze's writing style dense and packed with technical terminology, making it difficult to comprehend for those without a strong background in philosophy. The complexity of the ideas presented can be overwhelming and may require multiple readings to fully grasp.
Additionally, a few reviewers note that the book lacks a clear structure and organization. They find it challenging to follow the flow of Deleuze's arguments, leading to confusion and frustration. These readers suggest that a more coherent structure would have improved the overall reading experience.
PhilosophyBook BookwormLife IntellectualJourney