Are We Getting Better? A Philosophical Reflection About Us

Item sets: The Sphex Club Papers; Jones Memorial Library Manuscripts Collection

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Identifier: JML.MS1133-0061
Barcode: JML.MS1133-0061
Title: Are We Getting Better? A Philosophical Reflection About Us
Description: Text of a lecture delivered to the Sphex Club in Lynchburg. This paper, presented by David T. Petty, Jr., explores the erosion of secular humanism and the impact of chaos theory on the concept of progress. Petty draws from historical philosophies, particularly those of John Locke, to discuss the Western belief in rational progress and its challenges in contemporary times. He references the uncertainty principle and chaos theory to illustrate the growing skepticism towards the predictability and control over nature and society. The paper prompts a reevaluation of humanism, suggesting that advancements in science and a deeper understanding of chaos may lead us to question our place in the universe and the inherent nature of progress. It calls for a philosophical discussion on whether the disillusionment with secular humanism signifies a temporary phenomenon or a permanent shift in our worldview.
Date: 10 October 1996
Creator: Petty, David T. Jr.
topic: SPHEX Club - lectures; Petty, David T. Jr.; Enlightenment philosophy
Location: Lynchburg, Va.
Digital Format: pdf
Language: English
Publisher: George M. Jones Library Association
Repository: George M. Jones Library Association
Rights: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/; George M. Jones Library Association
Rights Holder: Petty, David T. Jr.; George M. Jones Library Association