TRUTH, FREEDOM, AND LOVE: INTERPRETATIONS BASED UPON THE ONTOLOGY OF GABRIEL MARCEL
Abstract
Many philosophers have held that all thought is thought of being, i.e., that every thought contains an implicit stance toward being. Historically, "objective reality" has been the dominant ontological presupposition. This essay intends to undermine "objective reality" as an interpretive background, and to re-think the notions of "truth," "freedom," and "love" from the standpoint of the non-objective ontology of Gabriel Marcel. The specific hermeneutical horizon for such interpretations is Marcel's notion of "ontological exigence." After the introductory chapter, the essay is divided into four main chapters. The second chapter sets forth the fundamental features of Marcel's thought. It examines the theme of the "broken world," the manner in which Marcel addresses the question of being, and the "primary reflection/secondary reflection," and "problem/mystery" distinctions. Chapter three elucidates the difference between the notions of "existence" and "objectivity" preparing the way for chapter four which provides an analysis of Marcel's unique approach to being centering in the foundational experience of ontological exigence. The concluding chapter offers interpretations of "truth," "freedom," and "love" which are grounded in ontological exigence. It is held that a fundamental meaning of "truth" is found in the notion of "fullness" or "fulfillment." The truth of being is the fulfillment of ontological exigence. Such fulfillment is discovered in the interaction of freedom and love. But "freedom" must not be seen as the indetermination of the will, nor should love be understood as mere emotion. Existence is perched between the demand to be, and the temptations of the objective world. Freedom is that possibility of releasement from the objective world which is granted as a gift implicit in the demand to be, and which becomes actual only through the power of love. Freedom stands under the constant threat of slipping toward objective determination unless touched by love, the mysterious bond and invisible fabric of being itself. While many believe that "truth," "freedom," and "love" are exclusive notions, this interpretation holds that they are interdependent. Ultimately, "freedom-love" emerges as the essence of truth. One stands freely in the truth of being only in love.
Degree
Ph.D.
Subject Area
Philosophy
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