People only like to admit to looking at the world in a classical way, especially in western cultures where it is associated with intellect. When push comes to shove though, every decision people make is influenced by romantic thinking. For example, when someone might keep a toy from their youth in their attic because it has sentimental value. The toy serves no practical use, so from a classical point of view, it's unnecessary to have.
Everyone thinks with some combination of classical and romantic views, varying from person to person. I myself probably lean more to the romantic side than most, although that is me personally. I'm still largely a classical thinker though because if I wasn't I wouldn't believe in science and would see no point in the universe. There is definitely an inherent contradiction here that I will not pretend doesn't exist. As irrational as it is though, I and every other person chooses to live with this contradiction and not question it because it ultimately makes my life the happiest. Do I sound like an Epicurean?
You say that when push comes to shove that romanticism defines our decisions, but I highly doubt that everyone succumbs to that. I am sure that some people think rationally and carry through with that rational decision. As a self-proclaimed romantic, aren't you a little biased in this view? Just because a romantic is romantic doesn't mean everyone is. (I do agree with you though, just not the example).
ReplyDeleteI think you make an interesting point. I would actually flip words around a little and say that because we live in the West, classical thinking is present to some degree in every decision, even in those who are considered "romantic". But I agree, I think most people employ both types of thinking in their day to day lives.
ReplyDeleteI liked your point about most people wanting to be associated with the classical view because it shows intellect. I also think your descriptions of romantics and classicalists are very fitting. However, i think your description of classicalists believing toys to be unnecessary sounds more like a stoics point of view.
ReplyDeleteYou raise an interesting point. I would argue that because classical thinking is such a big part of western culture, that actually every decision is influenced by classical thinking. Also--If both types of thinking govern our lives, how can they be completely incompatible?
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