In this statement, Schleiermacher suggests that when considering ethical or moral ideals, truth should be approached more through the lens of art than through science. His point hinges on maintaining unity and coherence within a work, indicating that the way we express truths about ethics should align with artistic principles rather than purely empirical ones.
Schleiermacher's assertion delves into the realm where philosophy meets aesthetics. He argues that ethical truth is not merely factual or scientifically provable but requires an approach that emphasizes form, creativity, and emotional resonance. This means that while science seeks to understand and quantify reality through objective measures, art captures the essence of human experience and values in a way that resonates deeply with our subjective nature. By advocating for this artistic perspective on ethics, Schleiermacher underscores the importance of harmony and coherence in presenting moral truths, suggesting that an ethical framework is more effectively communicated when it embraces poetic expression rather than rigid scientific analysis.
Friedrich Schleiermacher was a prominent German theologian, philosopher, and classicist who lived from 1768 to 1834. Known for his contributions to religious thought, he sought to bridge the gap between traditional Christianity and modern philosophical ideas. His work often explored the relationship between individual experience and universal truths, particularly within ethical and religious contexts. Schleiermacher's influence extended beyond theology into broader intellectual circles, making significant impacts on philosophy, aesthetics, and hermeneutics.
