Edgar Morin, a reader of our time
Translated from French, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
Opinion
Sources not specified
Context piece
- Writer Metin Arditi expresses admiration for philosopher Edgar Morin's lifelong public engagement but admits he never fully connected with Morin's thought.
- Morin, widely featured in French media, is recognized for his constant commitment as a resistor and a moral compass in public debate.
- Arditi highlights Morin's emphasis on kindness as essential for contemporary times, securing him a special place in people's hearts.
Writer Metin Arditi, in a column for Le Temps, acknowledges the widespread tributes to philosopher Edgar Morin, noting his prominent features in major French newspapers. Arditi describes Morin's life as consistently marked by engagement, first as a resistor and later as a moral guide in public discourse.
Who increases his knowledge increases his ignorance
Despite the accolades, Arditi confesses a personal disconnect with Morin's philosophical ideas, regretting it due to his admiration for the man. He finds Morin's "catchphrases" like "Whoever increases his knowledge increases his ignorance" or "Man is wise-fool" to lack profound depth, comparing them to a quip that "everything is in everything."
Man is wise-fool
However, Arditi identifies a more essential quality in Morin: his understanding of what today's era truly needs – kindness. For this "most precious good" and "most wonderful gift," Arditi asserts that Morin will always hold a special place in people's hearts.
Everything is in everything, and vice versa
DistantNews Editorial
Originally published by Le Temps in French. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.
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