| Sriharsha Madireddy is a third-year undergraduate student pursuing a double major in political science and philosophy. His academic focus centers on political philosophy and the historical development of political thought, with a particular fascination for continental philosophy and the Frankfurt School. Thinkers such as Friedrich Nietzsche, Georg Wilhelm Friedrich Hegel, Karl Marx, Martin Heidegger, and Hannah Arendt captivate him. His research interests revolve around critically analyzing reason, exploring the dichotomy between humanity and nature, and examining the impact of capitalism on society. |
What is man in the Infinite but a bounded finite, stuck in the abysses between the Nothing and the Infinite? Pascal’s work offers a profound meditation on the human condition, the nature of human knowledge, and the perils of unchecked ambition. This research project delves into the depths of Pensées, particularly focusing on its relevance in contemporary discourse on anthropocentrism. By dissecting Pascal’s arguments, I aim to shed light on his critique of human ambition, vanity, and the limitations of reason. I argue that Pascal’s strategy of argument in the three sections of the Pensées is to caution us against ousting God from the realm of morality and society because man, who is finite and bounded, cannot fulfill the void of the Absolute and the Infinite, leading to a vain and hollow world devoid of meaning. Man, in seeking to replace God or the Infinite, carves out a special metaphysical realm for himself. Without the notion of a higher being, man assumes the position of the superior being. In doing so, man seeks to control and subordinate nature by the means of reason as a distinctive “human” condition and reckons the distinction between him and nature. Eloquence and reason paint a picture rather a portrait, that is to say, reason tarnishes the true reality of nature. Although reason and logic have provided us with many comforts, their status as the guiding and defining principles of man has created a stark division between nature and civilization. This often falls into anthropocentrism, which positions mankind as superior and paramount. This strict division also tends to view nature merely as a resource for human use, leading to its exploitation and degradation in the pursuit of human progress. The global ramifications of this approach are evident in the form of climate change. By carving out a special metaphysical space for himself, man has made it easier to perceive nature as inherently opposed to humanity, rather than recognizing man as an integral part of the natural world. This following line from Pascal is of the utmost significance: “We can only think of Plato and Aristotle in grand academic robes. They were honest men, like others, laughing with their friends, and when they diverted themselves with writing their Laws and Politics, they did it as an amusement. That part of their life was the least philosophic and the least serous; the most philosophic was to live simply and quietly (Pascal, Pensées, 93).” Pascal here is urging us to live the life man was intended to live, rather than to imagine our greatness and in delusion subdue our surroundings, that is ultimately, ourselves. The most philosophic life, that is to say, the utmost wisdom is found in living life as nature herself intended us to live, quietly and simply in our finite space and finite intellect as men and just as men.
Receiving the fellowship from Centre for European Studies has been invaluable for my research project. The financial support and resources provided by the fellowship allowed me to dedicate myself fully to this project, ensuring its thoroughness and depth. Additionally, access to the center’s library, archives, and scholarly community enabled me to engage in meaningful discussions and exchange ideas with fellow researchers. Furthermore, the interdisciplinary environment at Centre for European Studies exposed me to diverse perspectives, enriching my project and providing a well-rounded analysis of Pascal’s Pensées. Additionally, the access to the Centre for European Studies’ library, archives, and scholarly community is not just an opportunity but has been a lifeline. For someone like me, without a family background in academia, gaining access to such resources can be incredibly challenging. These resources are essential for conducting in-depth research on Pascal’s Pensées, a project that I am deeply passionate about. They are the building blocks of a successful academic endeavor. The fellowship also offered the opportunity to present my research findings and engage with scholars who share a similar passion for philosophy and the historical context of Pascal’s work. The support provided by the Centre for European Studies has been instrumental in facilitating this endeavor, offering access to resources, scholarly community, and opportunities for intellectual exchange. As I embark on my journey in academia, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to work at the center and delve into the depths of philosophical inquiry and contribute to a deeper understanding of the human condition.
*Sriharsha was a 2024 CES Undergraduate Student Fellow.