The Sovereignty of Good

Warning: contains major spoilers for the film Paterson


This is the second of Iris Murdoch's philosophical works that I've read in the last month. It's not quite as outstanding as The Fire and the Sun, which was written a bit later, but I still held it in high regard. I can fathom why people are currently reassessing her as a philosopher and taking her work more seriously. In both books, she delves into the same core themes: what does it mean to be a good person, what is the essence of art, and does art assist us in becoming good people.
Murdoch's responses to these inquiries are rather straightforward. We don't ultimately know the precise meaning of being a good person, yet it's not something overly mysterious. It pertains to the evident moral challenges we encounter all around us: being selfless, loving those close to us, and seeing the world as it truly is rather than as we desire it to be. Needless to say, all of these aspects are extremely arduous to accomplish, but that shouldn't deter us from attempting. Generally speaking, she adopts the commonsense stance, which is unfashionable among many philosophers, that what we think and feel is as significant as what we do. Perhaps the thinking and feeling don't have an immediate impact; however, it alters the kind of person we are, and when the moment arrives to act, it will determine what we ultimately do. Regarding art, and especially with respect to literature, she unequivocally asserts that it is a beneficial thing. Indeed, in an era where religion has largely been debased, she contends that reading literature is now the only spiritual exercise accessible to many people. By learning to distinguish between good, truthful literature and bad, false literature, and moving towards the former and away from the latter, we will gradually refine our sensibilities and become better individuals.
People who spend a great deal of time on Goodreads might find this a little too reassuring. Of course, it's also impossible to overlook the fact that Murdoch spent a substantial part of her life penning novels and is more or less compelled to defend that as a praiseworthy activity. But if you're skeptical, Jim Jarmusch's remarkable new film Paterson could almost have been crafted to uphold Murdoch's line of reasoning. Paterson, on the surface, appears to be an unremarkable and even dull individual. He wakes up at 6.10 every morning, consumes a bowl of cereal, and departs for his job driving a bus. He returns home in the evening, has dinner with his girlfriend Laura, and then takes the dog for a walk. He drinks a beer at the local bar and comes home once more. However, Paterson's life is actually rich and exciting. He is a poet; all the while, as he walks to work or drives his bus, he is composing poems in his mind. He jots things down in a small notebook whenever he has a spare moment. No one except Laura is aware of his poetry.
We come to realize that Paterson is a good man. Near the end, an incident occurs that subjects him to a severe moral test. Laura is elated and excited; her project of baking cupcakes and selling them at the market has been a resounding success, and she has earned several hundred dollars. She impulsively tells Paterson that she's taking them out for dinner and a movie. They have a pleasant and romantic evening. But when they return home, there's a horrifying surprise. Disappointed by not getting his evening walk, the dog has gone berserk and shredded Paterson's precious notebook. He has no copy, despite the fact that Laura has pleaded with him several times to make one.
Most people, witnessing a year of their life being thus destroyed, would instinctively lash out at whoever was closest. If Laura hadn't disrupted their usual routine, the dog wouldn't have done it. But Paterson, despite his anguished expression, remains silent. He in no way attempts to assign even a fraction of the blame to Laura; he simply states that he forgot to place the notebook in its customary location. It's only when you reflect on it afterwards that you realize how extraordinary his actions are: not what he does, but what he refrains from doing. You understand why this beautiful girl loves him.
Maybe there's some merit to Murdoch's ideas.

I discovered this book when I was seeking seminal works on the concept of "good" or "goodness" after reading The Human Condition. I shared my current beliefs and my concerns regarding Arendt's treatment of goodness (which she didn't discuss much in The Human Condition), and was informed that my beliefs might align most closely with Murdoch's text.

I believe that's accurate. Despite consisting of only 120 pages or perhaps even fewer, it took me a considerable amount of time to finish. I highlighted most pages, sometimes entire ones, only pausing to adhere to the Kindle/Goodreads long highlight rule so that I could revisit and review all of them later. (Yes, this is an extremely rare Kindle read for me as I knew I would be doing a lot of highlighting and didn't want to transcribe the entire book.)

I'm certain that I will write at least three articles exploring these ideas as they are already sketched or mostly formed in my mind. The themes include determination, virtue, fear, and goodness as love. I find all of this extremely captivating.

I'm highly intrigued by the idea of a secular prayer, a non-religious, quasi-metaphysical "prayer-activity" or contemplation. Murdoch presents this not as the quasi-religious meditation we encounter elsewhere, but as something distinct.

"Prayer is properly not petition, but simply an attention to God which is a form of love."

Later:

"However, in spite of what Kant was so much afraid of I think there is a place both inside and outside religion for a sort of contemplation of the Good, not just by dedicated experts but by ordinary people: an attention which is not just the planning of particular good actions but an attempt to look right away from self towards a distant transcendent perfection, a source of uncontaminated energy, a source of new and quite undreamt-of virtue. This attempt, which is a turning of attention away from the particular, may be the thing that helps most when difficulties seem insoluble, and especially when feelings of guilt keep attracting the gaze back towards the self. This is the true mysticism which is morality, a kind of undogmatic prayer which is real and important, though perhaps also difficult and easily corrupted."

(bold emphasis mine)

I adore this. Earlier, Murdoch describes love as attention and knowledge. I also appreciate that for Murdoch, "planning of particular good actions" doesn't undermine their goodness. I like the vulnerability Murdoch attributes to this practice of contemplation. I think the reality for humans is that while we are, or can be, resilient, we are also fragile and easily and often broken. Life seems to me to be a series of breakings and reassemblings, hoping that we can hold ourselves together throughout. Hoping that we don't appear too broken for love to others.

I believe how we choose to reassemble ourselves after the breakings is significant. I think it is also difficult and easily corrupted. It's hard not to shut oneself off and embrace the cold. Murdoch contemplates love throughout and importantly in the conclusion. I'm reflecting on her framing of it and her connection to goodness, and it's too soon for me to write anything about this. But, generally speaking, I admire her framing. It feels true to me at this moment.

"We need a moral philosophy in which the concept of love, so rarely mentioned now by philosophers, can once again be made central."

I truly valued this text. I will definitely return to it, probably repeatedly. I can sense these ideas bouncing around in my head, and even in the uncomfortable areas, it's nice to feel them.

Compelling and well argued, this work truly stands out. Perhaps my favourite part is the fascinating comparison between the'modern moral human being' and Milton's Lucifer. It is nothing short of brilliant. I have made a wealth of notes during my reading, as there is so much to unpack and explore. In particular, I found Murdoch's critique of existentialism, romanticism, and enlightenment to be extremely illuminating. It offers a fresh perspective and challenges many of the commonly held beliefs in these areas.

However, I am less sure that her own position is entirely clear to me. There are times when her ideas seem a bit complex and perhaps open to interpretation. But notwithstanding this, her prose is engaging, fresh, and thought-provoking, even 60 years after publication. It has the power to make the reader think deeply about ethics and philosophy, and to question their own beliefs and assumptions.

I wouldn't recommend this work for casual readers, as it requires a certain level of intellectual engagement and a genuine interest in the subject matter. But for those who have a general interest in ethics and philosophy, it is definitely a must-read. It offers valuable insights and perspectives that can enhance one's understanding of these important fields.

Once again, it occurred to me that I must read Simon Wiesenthal as soon as possible. Wiesenthal is a renowned figure whose works and experiences have had a profound impact. His writings offer valuable insights into the human condition, especially in the context of the Holocaust. By reading his works, I hope to gain a deeper understanding of the atrocities that took place and the lessons we can learn from them. It is essential to study such historical events to ensure that they are never repeated. I am eager to embark on this literary journey and explore the mind of Simon Wiesenthal. I believe it will be a transformative experience that will expand my knowledge and perspective.

I'm not entirely certain that I concur with a great deal of what is presented in this book. Or, perhaps it would be more accurate to say that I struggle to relate to Murdoch's perspective on the world. However, having said that, there are indeed a few concepts within its pages that have truly had a profound impact on the way I think. These ideas have become so ingrained in my mind that I find myself constantly reflecting upon them on a daily basis.

It's interesting how a single book can have such a diverse range of effects on a reader. While some parts may seem foreign or unappealing, others can have a transformative influence. In this case, although I may not fully embrace all of Murdoch's ideas, those few that have resonated with me have become an important part of my intellectual and personal growth.

Perhaps this is the beauty of literature - it challenges us, makes us question our own beliefs and perspectives, and ultimately helps us to expand our understanding of the world around us. Even if we don't agree with everything we read, there is always something to be gained from the experience.

I really liked this.

It is truly remarkable how closely it relates to Buddhist and yogic philosophy.

Buddhism emphasizes the importance of mindfulness, self-awareness, and the pursuit of inner peace. This concept aligns perfectly with the ideas presented here.

Similarly, yogic philosophy focuses on the connection between the mind, body, and spirit. It teaches us to control our thoughts and emotions, and to find balance and harmony within ourselves.

The relatability of this to Buddhist and yogic philosophy makes it even more profound and meaningful.

It shows us that these ancient teachings still hold great value in our modern lives.

By incorporating these principles into our daily routines, we can enhance our well-being and find greater fulfillment.

Overall, I find this connection to be both fascinating and inspiring.

It encourages me to explore these philosophies further and to apply their teachings in my own life.

I believe that by doing so, I can gain a deeper understanding of myself and the world around me.

What a revelation!

Murdoch, in a concise piece, presents an alternative for individualistic philosophers. According to her view, they place too much emphasis on freedom and rationality.

They have a blind spot regarding people's attachments to others.

Murdoch's perspective challenges the prevailing ideas of individualism.

She argues that there is more to human nature than just freedom and rational thought.

The concept of attachment is crucial and often overlooked by individualistic philosophers.

By highlighting this, Murdoch offers a new way of thinking about human nature and relationships.

Her ideas have the potential to reshape our understanding of ethics and morality.

Perhaps it is time to reevaluate the dominance of individualism and consider the importance of attachments in our lives.

Murdoch's work serves as a valuable reminder that there are other aspects of human nature that deserve our attention.

Sensational!

A reading of this will be complemented nicely with a reading of Nishitani’s Religion and Nothingess. However, I must admit that Murdoch is even more impressive.

Her works offer a profound exploration of human nature, morality, and the meaning of life.

The depth and complexity of her ideas make for a truly engaging and thought-provoking read.

While Nishitani’s work is also valuable, Murdoch’s unique perspective and writing style set her apart.

Her ability to bring characters and situations to life with vivid detail and emotional authenticity is truly remarkable.

A reading of her works is not only intellectually stimulating but also deeply moving.

It is no wonder that she is considered one of the most important and influential writers of the 20th century.

Whether you are a fan of philosophy, literature, or simply looking for a great read, Murdoch’s works are definitely worth exploring.