PODCAST:Past Present Future
TITLE:The End of Enlightenment
DATE:2024-01-25 00:00:00
URL:
MODEL:gpt-4-gizmo
In the "Past Present Future" podcast episode titled "The End of Enlightenment," host David Runciman speaks with historian Richard Whatmore and political theorist Leia Eppi about Richard's new book "End of Enlightenment." The discussion revolves around the Enlightenment era, focusing on its ideals, its decline by the end of the 18th century, and its impacts on contemporary thought.
Key Points from the Episode:
Defining the Enlightenment: The Enlightenment was characterized by its opposition to superstition (false belief) and enthusiasm (a term used pejoratively during the era, akin to fanaticism). Early Enlightenment thinkers like Hume considered both to be threats, with superstition often tied to Catholicism and enthusiasm linked to radical Protestantism.
Enlightenment and Free States: There was a focus on Britain and France, seen as models of free states that emerged victorious over superstition and enthusiasm. The discussion touches on how these nations achieved a form of Enlightenment through victories in religious wars and the establishment of governments based on laws rather than individuals.
The Decline of Enlightenment Ideals: By the late 18th century, Enlightenment optimism was fading due to various factors, including the rise of mercantile systems, colonial expansion, and the misuse of public credit. This decline was epitomized in the shift from fighting for liberty to engaging in aggressive mercantilism and war.
Enlightenment and the French Revolution: The French Revolution is viewed as a failed attempt to establish a stable republican community, leading to a descent into terror and the eventual rise of Napoleon. The Revolution's failure is seen as a crucial turning point, causing a reevaluation of Enlightenment principles.
Differences in Enlightenment Perspectives: The conversation highlights the varying interpretations of Enlightenment ideals in different regions, such as the contrasting views between the Scottish-English Enlightenment and the German Enlightenment. The latter retained a more optimistic view of reason and progress, even in the face of the French Revolution's failures.
The Enlightenment and Contemporary Politics: The episode draws parallels between the Enlightenment era and current political scenarios, particularly in the United States. Concerns are raised about the decline in faith in reason, the rise of relativism, and the impact of market-driven logic on political institutions.
Looking Towards the Future: The discussion concludes with reflections on the future, considering the uncertainties and existential risks faced in both the 18th century and the present day. The conversation touches on the need for reevaluating Enlightenment principles in light of contemporary challenges.
Overall, the episode provides a comprehensive overview of the Enlightenment, its achievements, its decline, and its relevance to current global political and philosophical discourse.
