To start off this blog, I am going to be completely honest. I loved this passage and all of its insights into reason and the motivation to pursue it for ones-self, but there was probably an entire paragraph or two where it was too complex for me to grasp. For that reason, I am going to choose to discuss the things I did comprehend, and also my thoughts on them.
The ability to finally become reliant to the point where you do not need others approval or direction is a wonderful thing, and it is something we should strive for instead of falling into the trap of laziness. The first assumption for most people when it comes to tasks, decisions, opinions, etc. is that someone else can do or make them for you simply because it is easier. Kant beautifully states the idea that a life where you can use reason and be your own person without having, as he says, a "guardian," is the kind of life worth living because no one wants to live dictated by another. I also wonder why Kant chose the word "guardian" in relation to the people who reason for others. Guardian implies the protection of another, but not giving one the chance to use reason seems like more of a hindrance than a help.
I also find it very interesting that Kant was willing to give out freedom so willingly. Yes, the freedom of reason can create new positive ways of thinking that can change cultures, civilizations, nations, and the world for the better, but it can also shake the foundations of everything we know to rubble. Kant's ideas about reason call for action and change, and these same ideas are still causing change today. I think this is why he chose said "Dare to know." I think it was almost as if he was issuing a challenge that he already knew the results to. Kant knew that whoever chose to begin to use reason in their life would never be the same, and would never even have the slightest chance at going back.
P.S. I responded to Sydney Snow's and Eliza Colbert's Posts.
P.S. I responded to Sydney Snow's and Eliza Colbert's Posts.
Comments
I appreciate your honesty! I also struggled with understanding a lot of it, but I personally believe that that was part of Kant's point - you had to really want to understand his point before you could. I also believe that when he uses the word "guardian," he is being very tongue-in-cheek. He is referring to these people "guarding" those who are unenlightened, which gives a feeling of leading apathetic sheep.