When will Philosophy break free from the shackles of Religion?

Question

There was once a time when if you wanted to study Astronomy you had to take into account Astrology, because that was the way things where. Ever since Astronomy has been taken seriously as a subject in its own right, without needing to 'respect' the Astrologist's view, the subject has resulted in a boom of scientific advancement. We launched satellites, sent men into space, began exploring Mars, began understanding anomalies like nebulas and black holes, and so much more. It has resulted in unprecedented technological expanses that the field has never before seen.

So when will this happen with Philosophy? At the moment the subject of Philosophy has to take into account - and 'respect' - religious views. One of many examples of this can be seen with quick search in 'The Guardian's' website for articles containing Philosophical discussion - they're labelled under the heading "Philosophy and Religion". Who knows what break-through's we'll have when we live in a time when Philosophy is a respected subject in its own right, and to bring Religion into the equation will seem as counter-productive and senseless as bringing Astrology into Astronomy.

Do you agree (or disagree)? Maybe I missing some vital point here. Please enlighten me with your opinions :)

Answer 1

I might disagree.

Astronomy always existed as a map of the visible universe. Seafaring nations used it to chart courses, and learned men of all cultures took note of what was in the sky. It wasn't owned by astrologers. Astrologers used the positions of the stars as an accurate time-keeping mechanism before calendars existed in a standard form, but they were working with predictions of events and of individual personality; to some cultures it was fortune telling and to some it was psychological profiling. Astronomers were never under their thumb.

Astronomy did better when optics were improved. Telescopes of higher power became the new delight of astronomers both amateur and professional.



Philosophy is not religion, but philosophers have tackled some of the same problems, such as "what is existence?" If you read some of the great philosophers, they are attempting to answer some deep questions, but not necessarily through the belief in a god.

Answer 2

Poor analogy. What you're missing is that philosophy has not been shackled by religion, it encompasses religion and much more. Big difference. Much of philosophy comes from religious thought, but it is not restricted or bound by it (as concerns Christiantiy) and hasn't been for a good 300-400 years. And, if you look at the biggest scientific questions today you cannot escape asking the metaphysical questions that must be asked, such as why, which necessarily brings religion into the mix whether you believe or disbelieve. Religion is a branch of philosophy and therefore inseparable from it.

Answer 3

Science didn't take off because it broke the shackles of Religion. It took off because people broke the shackles of Religion, and when they did, their Philosophy took off and created better Science. Philosophy and Science were the same thing until a couple hundred years ago. As Science broke free of the shackles of Philosophy, it took off even more.



The problem with Philosophy is it has to take everything seriously. Nobody said it was easy. But the good news is real Philosophy even has to take fun seriously, so you can always turn to that branch if you get overwhelmed by the rest.

Answer 4

jiddhu krishnamurti is the only philosopher i know who is absoulutely free from any religion.



remember astronomy will eventually bind with astrology and so it should.

Answer 5

both exist together and will never be separated, all religions are born from Philosophy.

Answer 6

It has