The article explores how philosophers occasionally transcend their typical focus on complex subjects such as epistemology and metaphysics to discuss ordinary matters like travel, buildings, and food. Through examples from philosophers like Francis Bacon and Ludwig Wittgenstein, it illustrates a skeptical view on vacations, linking them to potential distractions from philosophy. The piece highlights the intriguing juxtaposition of philosophical thought with the mundane temas often overlooked by academics, suggesting that even philosophical giants have something to say about common experiences like holidaying.
"More songs about Buildings and Food' was the title of a 1978 album by the rock band Talking Heads. It was about all the things rock stars normally don't sing about."
Emily Thomas, in her book The Meaning of Travel: Philosophers Abroad (2020), recounts for instance how Francis Bacon claimed that travel would bring about the apocalypse."
Ludwig Wittgenstein expressed disdain for holidays, claiming that 'philosophical problems arise when language goes on holiday.' This highlights the tension between leisure and philosophical thought."
Many philosophers have criticized vacations, arguing that they distract from profound thinking. Such views suggest discomfort with the idea of temporary escapes from intellectual engagement.
Collection
[
|
...
]