Letter to a European Philosopher
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- Date Submitted: 08/27/2011 01:28 PM
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Letter to a European Philosopher
NAME
Axia College of University of Phoenix
PHI--105
Instructor:
To: Soren Kierkegaard
H.C. Andersens Boulevard 12 Dagmarhus building (you don’t have to use same address)
Copenhagen DK-1553
Denmark
From: YOUR NAME
1235 Any Blvd.
Baltimore, MD, 21228
January 21, 2011
Dear Mr. Kierkegaard,
First let me thank you for your immense contribution to philosophy and especially, your perspective regarding the school of thought, existentialism. I was drawn to your work primarily through your strong belief in God because like you, I believe in a higher power, one far greater than I am. However, with respect, I must disagree with your view that unflinching faith in God is the only means by which to escape fear and despair in this world. The truth is, total devotion to God does not preclude you from the natural emotions of fear and despair. Your exaggerated piety seems to emphasize the dour aspect of Christianity such as guilt, sin, suffering, and individual responsibility; however, you seem to disregard that God is also love, joy, and forgiveness. Yes, it is extremely important that individuals turn to their faith in times of trouble, but as Hegel’s optimistic idealism indicates, sometimes theoretical reasoning or abstract intellectualizing is necessary to grant relief (Moore & Bruder, 2008). Thus, it is possible one can turn despair and dread into rational thought. Simply put, God helps those who help themselves. I implore you to consider the whole picture, be more open to life’s experiences, good or bad, and avoid the extremes in religion. If the event of September 11th is any indicator, extreme piety can indeed lead to the very emotions you most deplore, fear and despair. I appreciate your time, thank you.
Regards,
YOUR NAME
References
Moore, B. N., & Bruder, K. (2008). The Power of Ideas (7th ed.). New York, NY: McGraw-Hill.
I’VE PROVIDED THE NOTES BELOW IN HOPES THAT MY PAPER AND MY INSTRUCTOR’S CRITIQUE WOULD HELP...
NAME
Axia College of University of Phoenix
PHI--105
Instructor:
To: Soren Kierkegaard
H.C. Andersens Boulevard 12 Dagmarhus building (you don’t have to use same address)
Copenhagen DK-1553
Denmark
From: YOUR NAME
1235 Any Blvd.
Baltimore, MD, 21228
January 21, 2011
Dear Mr. Kierkegaard,
First let me thank you for your immense contribution to philosophy and especially, your perspective regarding the school of thought, existentialism. I was drawn to your work primarily through your strong belief in God because like you, I believe in a higher power, one far greater than I am. However, with respect, I must disagree with your view that unflinching faith in God is the only means by which to escape fear and despair in this world. The truth is, total devotion to God does not preclude you from the natural emotions of fear and despair. Your exaggerated piety seems to emphasize the dour aspect of Christianity such as guilt, sin, suffering, and individual responsibility; however, you seem to disregard that God is also love, joy, and forgiveness. Yes, it is extremely important that individuals turn to their faith in times of trouble, but as Hegel’s optimistic idealism indicates, sometimes theoretical reasoning or abstract intellectualizing is necessary to grant relief (Moore & Bruder, 2008). Thus, it is possible one can turn despair and dread into rational thought. Simply put, God helps those who help themselves. I implore you to consider the whole picture, be more open to life’s experiences, good or bad, and avoid the extremes in religion. If the event of September 11th is any indicator, extreme piety can indeed lead to the very emotions you most deplore, fear and despair. I appreciate your time, thank you.
Regards,
YOUR NAME
References
Moore, B. N., & Bruder, K. (2008). The Power of Ideas (7th ed.). New York, NY: McGraw-Hill.
I’VE PROVIDED THE NOTES BELOW IN HOPES THAT MY PAPER AND MY INSTRUCTOR’S CRITIQUE WOULD HELP...