Date: Tue, 27 Jun 1995 10:19:45 -0400 (EDT)
From: "Chris M. Sciabarra" <sciabrrc-AT-is2.NYU.EDU>
Subject: Re: The Hermeneutics of Closed and Open Minds (was "Leo Casey...")


Yes, Gadamer is quite good on this.  But perhaps the best way of looking 
at the issue of "closed" and "open" minds is to substitute different 
words:  "inactive" vs. "active" minds.  An "active" mind is critical; it 
refuses to accept anything on faith; it is committed to critical 
thinking and integrated analysis, and it seeks to articulate the 
essential principles at issue in any event, experience, action, or idea.  
An "active" mind must be objective; but "objectivity" does not consist of 
detached neutrality.  "Objectivity" often involves the articulation of 
one's basic premises, or prejudices if you will, which often give one an 
active interest in the subject at hand.  I would hope that social 
scientists who examine issues of justice are not so detached from the 
issue that they do not SEEK justice.  
				- Chris
=================================================Dr. Chris M. Sciabarra
Visiting Scholar, NYU Department of Politics
INTERNET:  sciabrrc-AT-is2.nyu.edu (NOTE NEW ADDRESS)
=================================================

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