The vision of Ferran Sáez Mateu
Ferran Sáez Mateu, philosopher and recognized author, has launched a new essay entitled ‘The end of illustrated progressism: the Nature/Artifice Debate in Politics’, published by Portico in 2024. In this book, he examines the tensions that exist between the concepts of nature and artifice, and how they question the foundations of illustrated progress within the current political landscape.
A three -decades trip
The birth of this essay goes back to more than thirty years, when Sáez Mateu began researching for his doctoral dissertation focused on Michel de Montaigne’s work. The duality between nature and artifice has remained a recurring theme throughout his work and, over time, has evolved into a political analysis that now takes shape in this book.
Relevància Actual
The coincidence between the moment Sáez Mateu has decided to publish his work and the news of the debate on illustrated progression is remarkable. The philosopher acknowledges that the essay has been shaped to address issues that are relevant in the current political scene, thus reflecting the concerns of contemporary society.
Deciphering illustrated progress
Illustrated progression, as defined by Sáez Mateu, is based on the ideals of freedom, equality and brotherhood, as proclaimed during the French Revolution. However, the author states that in recent years the notion of equality has been replaced by an emphasis on differences, thus generating a conflict that has caused a deep crisis in this model of thought.
The contrast of nature and artifice
Sáez Mateu explores the contrast between nature and artifice, a dichotomy that goes back to ancient times. This tension, present in the Greek philosophical debates, has remained alive over the centuries and is now manifested in modern discussions on topics such as gender and human nature. The central question is: Are we really aggressive by nature or is it a social construction?
Irony of postmodernity
The author also addresses the phenomenon of parodic postmodernity, characterized by irony that blurred the notions of truth and debate. When concepts such as ‘democracy’ or ‘freedom’ appear in quotes, an atmosphere of distrust is generated that prevents genuine debate.
Impact on education and politics
This dynamic seriously affects education and politics, as censorship is being imposed that limits the ability to discuss ideas. Sáez Mateu observes that, in the university field, this self -censorship can be detrimental, as it prevents the evolution of critical and emancipatory thinking.
Academic Censorship and Tabus Subjects
Professor Sáez Mateu admits that he has been forced to be cautious with the topics he addresses in his classes. This ‘hypersusususteptability’ that is breathed in the academic environment causes many teachers to avoid discussing controversial issues for fear of retaliation.
Populism and the Crisis of Progressism
Finally, Sáez Mateu reflects on the role of right -wing populism in the crisis of enlightened progressism. Instead of being the cause, he argues that the weakness of the left has allowed the growth of populism, which has capitalized on topics that the left has avoided. This situation invites a deep reflection on political strategies and their repercussions on society.
