The world is facing numerous threats, from climate change to social inequality, and it’s becoming increasingly clear that the future of humanity is at risk. However, the issue is not just about the survival of our species, but also about ensuring that our continued existence is in a society worth having. A society that is cohesive, inclusive, and cooperative is essential for making individuals’ lives better. Unfortunately, such societies are facing a political crisis, with cohesion, inclusion, and social cooperation being jeopardized by factors like extreme inequality, polarization, and the erosion of trust in institutions.
At the heart of this crisis is a phenomenon known as epistemic akrasia, where individuals hold beliefs despite realizing they are irrational or unjustified. This can happen when people form beliefs based on biased news sources, self-interest, or social influences, despite knowing that these factors can compromise their rationality. Epistemic akrasia is pervasive in political thinking, and it’s exacerbated by the ability to selectively consume information and the increasing polarization of society.
To address this crisis, we need to understand the significance of epistemic akrasia in political contexts and find ways to mitigate its effects. One approach is to recognize that people who hold irrational beliefs may still be rational individuals who are aware of the flaws in their arguments. By acknowledging this, we can narrow the gap between people with opposing views and foster more respectful and constructive discussions.
Moreover, we need to think bigger and explore new ideas, such as non-partisan democracy, divided voting, and regulations on biased news sources. These ideas may have their advantages and disadvantages, but they can help remove obstacles to social cohesion, inclusiveness, and cooperation. Ultimately, addressing the political crisis requires a deep understanding of human nature and the complexities of political philosophy.
Philosophy, in particular, has a crucial role to play in shaping the future of humanity. By providing an outline for how a worthwhile human society can function, philosophy can help ensure the continued existence of societies worth having. As we navigate the challenges facing our world, it’s essential to engage with philosophical ideas and perspectives, recognizing that the path to a better future is inevitably rooted in philosophical inquiry. By doing so, we can work towards creating a society that is truly worth having, where individuals can thrive and reach their full potential.
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