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DA7. Philosophers of the World, Part 1

Statement

  1. What does Voltaire’s expression “If God had not existed, it would have been necessary to invent him” mean to you? Is he right? Wrong? How do you know your position is the correct one?
  2. Which of the three Philosophers from this week do you find most interesting and why?

Answer

Part 1

“If God had not existed, it would have been necessary to invent him” is a statement made by Voltaire. To me, the statement indicates that humanity needs a bigger and stronger entity that is responsible for things that are outside of human control; hence, the word “invent”. The statement also implies the importance of religion in individual and societal personality, as it fills in some spiritual and moral gaps that are not covered by other aspects of life.

I believe the statement is right as it is evident that science and other forms of human powers (e.g. governments) are not able to explain nor control everything, hence there is some stronger entity, although we might not see or interact with; Voltaire explained the limitations of science in his book “Candide” where he criticized the optimism of the time (The School of Life, 2016). It is important to note the metaphoric nature of the statement, as no one can invent/create God; but it may be a strong metaphor to indicate our need for a God.

Part 2

I choose Voltaire as the most interesting philosopher from this week. My reasons come from the fact that he was an advocate for freedom of speech, religion, civil liberties, and free trade (Philosophy Basics, 2024). He was also a strong critic of the church but not the Christian faith itself (The School of Life, 2016).

His statement “I disapprove of what you say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it” is such an ironic and powerful statement that shows how great of a philosopher he was, despite the harsh punishments that were imposed on people like him at the time. I think that most of these values align with my personal view of life which makes Voltaire even more interesting to me.

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