I remain convinced that obstinate addiction to ordinary language in our private thoughts is one of the main obstacles to progress in philosophy.
Sentiment: NEGATIVE
Philosophy is a battle against the bewitchment of our intelligence by means of language.
Words are a pretty blunt instrument. There's always going to be slippage between the words and the infinite complexities of a thought. As a writer, I find that frustrating, but as a social animal, I wouldn't have it any other way.
In the grip of a neurological disorder, I am fast losing control of words even as my relationship with the world has been reduced to them.
The theory of isolation of certain tasks in certain hemispheres of the brain suggests I shouldn't even be able to speak, never mind write.
I have been a believer in the magic of language since, at a very early age, I discovered that some words got me into trouble and others got me out.
Take from the philosopher the pleasure of being heard and his desire for knowledge ceases.
You can't do without philosophy, since everything has its hidden meaning which we must know.
Language is handy, but we humans have social and emotional connections that transcend words and are communicated - and understood - without conscious thought.
I bought myself a rubber brain, familiarized myself with its many parts, listened intently, and read more. In fact, I read obsessively, as my husband has told me repeatedly. He has even suggested that my rapacious reading resembles an addiction.
When I read great literature, great drama, speeches, or sermons, I feel that the human mind has not achieved anything greater than the ability to share feelings and thoughts through language.