Ep. 329: Kierkegaard on Irony (Part One) | The Partially Examined Life Philosophy Podcast

Intro

In episode 329 of “The Partially Examined Life Philosophy Podcast,” the hosts delve into the concept of irony as discussed by Soren Kierkegaard in his master’s thesis, “The Concept of Irony, with Continual Reference to Socrates” from 1841. They explore the historical progression of irony, its different types, and its role in introducing subjectivity and inwardness to culture. The hosts also examine the disconnect between different presentations of Socrates and how irony can be used to explore concepts like justice and piety.

Main Takeaways

Kierkegaard’s Analysis of Irony

• Kierkegaard discusses the historical progression of irony and its usage by philosophers and writers.
• He praises Socrates’ use of irony and criticizes the Romantics’ approach.
• Kierkegaard presents a nuanced version of Socratic irony, involving a distinction between phenomena and essence.
• Irony is necessary for subjectivity to occur.

Socrates and Irony

• Socrates challenged the definition of piety and justice, threatening the social and political order.
• His negative stance was characterized by subtlety and irony.
• Kierkegaard examines how Socrates followed his diamond or demon.
• Socratic irony introduced subjectivity and inwardness to Greece.

The Nature of Irony

• Irony is a distancing from meaning and the actual world.
• Socrates’ negativity allows him to depart from actuality in favor of something eternal or transcendent.
• Irony gives freedom to the speaker to set their beliefs at a distance from the literal meaning of what is said.
• Socrates rejects what is right in front of him and points at a solution elsewhere.

Subjectivity and Inwardness

• Irony and negativity were essential for the development of a modern notion of consciousness and subjectivity.
• Subjectivity involves self-reflectiveness and awareness of the distinction between what is meant and what is said.
• Sophists can be bounded by the laws that govern the state, preventing the necessary distance for inner reflection.
• Authentic inwardness is essential for truth to be presented.

Summary

Kierkegaard’s Analysis of Irony

Kierkegaard explores the historical progression of irony and its usage by different philosophers and writers. He praises Socrates’ use of irony, which involves a distinction between phenomena and essence. Irony is seen as necessary for subjectivity to happen. However, Kierkegaard criticizes the Romantics’ approach to irony, considering it an abuse of the concept.

Socrates and Irony

Kierkegaard delves into Socrates’ use of irony and its impact on Greek society. Socrates challenged the definition of piety and justice, posing a threat to the social and political order. His negative stance was characterized by subtlety and irony, introducing subjectivity and inwardness to Greece. Kierkegaard examines Socrates’ relationship with the state and the implications of his actions.

The Nature of Irony

Irony is described as a distancing from meaning and the actual world. Socrates’ negativity allows him to depart from actuality in search of something transcendent. Irony provides freedom to the speaker, enabling them to set their beliefs at a distance from the literal meaning of their words. Socrates rejects the immediate and points towards alternative solutions, challenging conventional wisdom.

Subjectivity and Inwardness

Irony and negativity are identified as crucial elements in the development of modern consciousness and subjectivity. Subjectivity involves self-reflectiveness and an awareness of the distinction between what is meant and what is said. Kierkegaard highlights the limitations of sophists, who are bounded by the laws of the state and lack the necessary distance for inner reflection. Authentic inwardness is deemed essential for presenting truth.

Conclusion

In this episode, “The Partially Examined Life Philosophy Podcast” explores Kierkegaard’s analysis of irony and its significance in the context of Socrates’ philosophy. They delve into the historical progression of irony, its different types, and its role in introducing subjectivity and inwardness to culture. By examining Socrates’ use of irony, the hosts shed light on the complexities and implications of this rhetorical device. Ultimately, the exploration of irony invites listeners to question their own beliefs and consider the role of subjectivity in philosophical discourse.