Many philosophers self-identify as 'analytic' or 'continental' philosophers. But does this sort of label make sense? Brian Leiter, who, amongst other things, is an expert on Nietzsche, is sceptical of the value of the terms as typically used. In this episode of the Philosophy Bites podcast he explains why.
Listen to Brian Leiter on the Analytic/Contintental Distinction
Philosophy Bites is made in association with the Institute of Philosophy
A very clear approach to the false distinction to the History of Philosophy. The idea that the distinction Analytic/Continental could be more sociological than really a Philosophical one sounds very plausible, than as Brian said it depends on the position assumed for the speaking philosopher in nominating the other so called tradition.
Bernard Williams and Frege are good examples to question that distinction.
Williams, on one side, has been educated in the analytic Philosophy, but had a very reach reception of Descartes, Nietzsche and some others known as "Continental" philosophers. Frege, on the other side, had a great influence on the establishment of the "analytic philosophy", but was born and educated in Germany. So, I tend really to accept Brian's idea that there is no sense to keep the distinction.
Posted by: Ricardo Napoli | October 25, 2013 at 10:36 AM