Zoroastrian American Philosophers: The Case of John Dewey

Dear Dino

Yes, I do, and I agree, Dewey is the "most Zoroastrian" of American thinkers (although I would love to hear more about the Zoroastrian-ness about other American philosophers, like Ayn Rand, too). Especially the idea that freedom as the route to ethical completion (haurvatat) goes through the construction of a social arena where freedom becomes possible. This is why Zarathushtra opposed the SHORTSIGHTEDNESS of nomads in Central Asia versus the INVESTMENTAL approach taken by the settlers. This is also interestingly where we find a strong case for a Zoroastrian belief in ownership (as ownership fosters responsibility and further investment in future ideas etc). Zarathushtra was a civilizationist interested in the empowerment of humans. This is also why Zoroastrianism is a religion without hermits, monks and nuns. Participation in civilization is what is sacred, not distancing oneself from civilization. This is what Gathic ethics is all about.

Ushta
Alexander

2009/10/19 Special Kain



Dear friends,

Freedom of choice is key in Zoroastrian philosophy. The choices we make determine our future identities and profoundly affect our future thoughts and words which in turn will affect our actions which in turn will affect our choices and thoughts etc.
I've recently promoted John Dewey's collection of philosophical essays, "Philosophy and Civilization", and the essay on "Philosophies of Freedom" is 100% Zoroastrian!!! Since I don't have the time to write a summary, please don't hesiate to read the following article on Dewey's political philosophy at the Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy:

http://plato.stanford.edu/entries/dewey-political/

Don't you agree that many, many ideas and conclusions presented have already been similarly discussed on Ushta? Dewey's essays actually solve many conflicts and confusions that have regularly popped up here.

Ushta, Dino