Philosophy Finds Its Voice in Song

Can ancient wisdom resonate through modern melodies, and what does it mean when “it sings, therefore we are”? Oxford philosophy professor Paul Lodge blends his academic passion with a lifelong love of music in his project, Cantat Ergo Sumus, exploring the surprising harmony between philosophical thought and songwriting.

Lodge’s journey began with a teenage fascination sparked by philosophical allusions in popular culture – Monty Python, Douglas Adams, and concept albums like Pink Floyd’s Dark Side of the Moon and Genesis’s The Lamb Lies Down on Broadway. This early exposure cultivated a unique perspective, eventually leading him to set the words of philosophers themselves to music, initially as a private exploration. The project gained momentum in 2019 with a collaboration with the band Flights of Helios, culminating in a forthcoming album supported by a grant from The Oxford Centre for the Humanities.

The title, Cantat Ergo Sumus, a playful twist on Descartes’ “Cogito, ergo sum” (“I think, therefore I am”), reveals a core philosophical shift. Instead of individual consciousness as the foundation of existence, Lodge proposes a more interconnected “it sings, therefore we are,” drawing inspiration from Heidegger’s concept of “worlding” – a fundamental, impersonal event that brings beings into existence together. This idea suggests that music, rather than being a product of individual creation, taps into something larger and shared, forging a collective experience of being.

Lodge’s process is remarkably intuitive. He begins with an acoustic guitar, prioritizing simplicity and memorability, almost in the spirit of hymns. He writes quickly, abandoning ideas that don’t immediately resonate. While his foundational style leans towards folk and folk-rock, the final sound is often shaped by the producers he collaborates with, resulting in surprising arrangements – from house/rave elements accompanying the Daodejing to psychedelic guitar work illuminating Hildegard von Bingen.

He doesn’t shy away from potentially “disrespectful” reinterpretations of sacred or classic texts, believing his work can serve as an invitation to further exploration, rather than a definitive statement. The goal isn’t to teach philosophy through song, but to create a space where listeners might encounter it in a new and engaging way. Ultimately, Lodge hopes his music will inspire curiosity and a deeper engagement with the profound questions explored by philosophers throughout history.

You can find Paul Lodge’s music, including the recently released Preludes To Wordsworth, on his Bandcamp page and streaming services, and learn more about his philosophical work on his website.