I've been musing a bit over the whole point of a blog. Clearly, being more of an amateur philosopher, I'm not going to be posting things quite as detailed as say one might find in one of my favorite blogs, Wo's Weblog. But there is that question that's been on my mind regarding what I write. To what degree should what I write be already thought out and to what degree is writing in a blog part of the process of working it out. I ask, because I really enjoy blogs who are summarizing studies they've conducted or positions they're familiar with. At the same time though I also enjoy probably most of all some of the undergraduate oriented blogs where they are taking positions, possibly screwing up, but welcoming feedback as they think through the issues. Then there are the blogs that simply link to some story and possibly add a few comments.
I'm a bit schizophrenic here I guess. Originally I was going to use it to work out some issues in Mormon theology I was interested in, using Orson Pratt as a starting point. However the issues didn't end up being as interesting as I'd originally thought. (Or, more accurately, didn't seem quite as deep as I thought) Still I have definitely used the blog to work out various partially formed ideas - such as whether one can reconcile foreknowledge with the logical requirements of Mormonism. Basically a response to Blake's book. Those looking for fixed positions in those posts or even clear, concise arguments, are sure to be disappointed. On the other hand I've learned a lot in the process. So I don't mind too much.
Anyway, I've noticed that I've definitely moved slightly away from discussing theology as much and have discussed issues I've been thinking about in science or philosophy. That process may continue somewhat. But I definitely also want to do a few discussions of philosophical topics as I think they relate to Mormonism. For those I'll try to start with the general introductory comments and move on. That way all the non-philosophers who read the blog can follow. (I know a lot of the posts are a tad too technical for them.
If you have any thoughts about things you want me to discuss, feel free to offer suggestions. Honesly though, writing is a way for me to work my thoughts out, not having any philosophers living next door. (grin) So if the blog sometimes seems self-indulgent, that's why.
Regardless of why, what or how, I like it. You are providing a unique forum in Mormondum - keep it up. Though, as I haven’t advanced in my studies or thought to be cogent on many issues, I admit that it is sometimes impotent voyeurism on my part.
As for the philosophy of blogs in general: I find that it is the interpersonal dynamism that it is so valuable. One of my favorite things as a grad student was to sit in my professor’s office (I was his last) and talk/think/collaborate together about whatever idea was intriguing at the time. Blogs support a similar activity except that they are not limited by time or geography.
I have a suggestion! (I love your blog, by the way). I have picked up a theology book by Conor Cunningham called "The Genealogy of Nihilism". Apparently Cunningham is part of some movement called Radical Orthodoxy, and since you obviously have a strong interest in theology, some about which I know very little, I was wondering if you had heard of him or this movement, and what your thoughts were if you had.
I have to confess I've never heard of it. Sorry.
I've closed comments in order to avoid spam since I don't check this older blog as much anymore.
and Theology
Number of unique visitors:
Blogged by Clark Goble