Friedrich Nietzsche, on the search for truth: 'There are no facts, but interpretations.' | La Nación (AR)

The traditional philosophical quest for absolute truth is challenged by contemporary thought, according to philosopher Darío Sztajnszrajber. In an exclusive interview, he explained that the very definition of philosophy and its pursuit has evolved, moving away from a singular focus on finding "the truth."

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This idea, which still persists in many philosophical currents, that philosophy is the search for truth, creates its own problems when some philosophical currents establish that ultimately human beings find the truth and the truth is that there is no truth.

"This idea, which still persists in many philosophical currents, that philosophy is the search for truth, creates its own problems when some philosophical currents establish that ultimately human beings find the truth and the truth is that there is no truth," Sztajnszrajber stated. He invoked Friedrich Nietzsche's controversial idea, "there are no facts, but only interpretations," to illustrate this point. Sztajnszrajber differentiates between everyday truths, scientific truths, and philosophical truths, suggesting they serve different functions.

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there are no facts, but only interpretations

Everyday truths are often based on mechanical and functional execution to ensure the smooth running of daily life. Scientific truths, similarly, are concerned with the "how" things work. Philosophical truth, however, delves into deeper, more ontological questions, seeking a broader sense of meaning. "One thing is that the thing works, and another thing is that it is true. And that's where it's worth discussing what we seek in the name of truth. You can associate it with an existential, more transcendent purpose," he explained.

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One thing is that the thing works, and another thing is that it is true. And that's where it's worth discussing what we seek in the name of truth. You can associate it with an existential, more transcendent purpose.

When discussing happiness, Sztajnszrajber rejects the prevalent formulas for personal success found on social media. Instead, he draws from Epicurus' concept of ataraxia, defined as "the imperturbability of the soul and the pursuit of minimal pleasures." He shared a personal anecdote where his mother equated happiness with the absence of external disturbances, aligning with this Epicurean notion of independence. At 58, Sztajnszrajber admits he doesn't have a definitive answer to the purpose of life, but finds his personal fulfillment in the desire to know and the continuous exercise of wonder.

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The imperturbability of the soul and the pursuit of minimal pleasures.