Open letter to academic philosophers
There are thousands of societies around the world, catering to every shade of philosophical interest. Why join us?
We believe in Philosophy for All. But that is not a wishy-washy attempt to pretend that there are not deep differences between philosophical outlooks. It is not an appeal to the lowest common denominator.
It is out of a desire for the highest good, that one wishes to impart a vision of that good to others — as Plato taught. Philosophers teach, not just to earn a living, but because enthusiasm and passion for the subject cannot be contained. We are proud of what we do.
Amongst the greatest works of philosophy — as well as the day to day commerce of ideas which keeps the subject alive — are works which you don't need to be a professor of philosophy or PhD in order to read and enjoy. Descartes wrote in French, breaking with the traditional Latin, in order to reach the widest possible audience. Yet who would deny that the Meditations is one of the greatest works of philosophy ever produced?
It's a challenge explaining Plato or Descartes to a newcomer to the subject. Harder still, to explain in straightforward terms what philosophers are doing today to push forward the boundaries of human knowledge. Yet we relish that challenge, because in explaining how we do our work we come to a better understanding of our subject — as well as a better understanding of ourselves.
What does being a member of the ISFP entail? Here are some ways you can participate:
Launched in 2001, the Philosophy Pathways electronic journal welcomes articles by independent philosophers and students of philosophy. If you have any doubt that non-professionals can produce original work of high quality, have a look through the articles posted on the PhiloSophos web site. You will be pleasantly surprised.
A second electronic journal Philosophy for Business was launched at the end of 2003 and currently goes out to many hundreds of businesses and corporations world wide, providing a superb opportunity for philosophers researching and teaching business ethics to talk to business people.
The Pathways Ask a Philosopher service has been going since 1999. The archives now run to over two million words. The panel can always use a helping hand. Instead of looking for questions you can answer easily, look for one you can't answer — then give it your best shot.
Formed in 2004, the Board of the ISFP is the think tank of the Society, as well as its policy making body and conscience, initiating new projects and also keeping a watchful eye on the day to day running of the Pathways to Philosophy programs.
The main task for the ISFP Board is to examine submissions for the ISFP Associate and Fellowship Awards. Successful submissions are posted permanently in the Pathways Essay Archive.
By joining the ISFP you will gain the opportunity to play your part a world-wide organization reaching out beyond the confines of the academic world. The challenge is nothing less than to change the lives of ordinary people through the teaching and application of philosophical ideas.
What are you waiting for? JOIN NOW!
© Geoffrey Klempner 2002–2006