Kierkegaard - Fear and Trembling

Problema 1: Teleological Suspension of the Ethical

  • The Ethical as Universal:

    • Applies to everyone and at all times.

    • Has no external purpose; is self-contained and universal.

    • The individual must express themselves within the ethical, surrendering their singularity.

  • Individual vs. Universal:

    • Asserting singularity (individuality) against the universal is deemed a sin.

    • Spiritual trials arise when individuals struggle with their identity against the ethical universal.

  • Moral Teleology:

    • Ethical existence reflects an individual's eternal salvation.

    • Teleological suspension leads to questioning if ethical duties can be set aside.

    • Hegel posits that singularity against the universal reflects a moral failure.

Faith and Paradox

  • Faith as Paradox:

    • The individual can be higher than the universal, creating a paradox.

    • The narrative of Abraham exemplifies this paradox, standing in contrast to Hegel's notions.

    • If faith isn't understood within its paradox, then faith itself is nullified.

  • Spiritual Trial vs. Faith:

    • Distinction between true faith and a mere spiritual trial.

    • Recognizing that true faith might require a departure from ethical norms.

The Story of Abraham

  • Abraham's Ethical Challenge:

    • Significance of Abraham's willingness to sacrifice Isaac highlights the ethical suspension.

    • Ethical justifications fail to articulate Abraham's position truly.

  • Contrasting with Tragic Heroes:

    • Tragic heroes operate within ethical boundaries; Abraham does not.

    • Their actions are understood through cultural and ethical lenses while Abraham acts outside these frameworks.

The Role of the Individual

  • Individual's Credibility:

    • The individual, particularly in Abraham's case, cannot clearly communicate their relationship to the universal.

    • They exist as a singularity in contrast to the universal’s ethical demands.

  • The Nature of Duty:

    • Duty signified as God's will contradicts ethical norms, leading to personal sacrifice.

    • The ethical cannot fully encapsulate personal relationships like that of Abraham and Isaac.

  • Judgment by Result:

    • Society often measures greatness through outcomes rather than the sincerity of the individual’s actions.

Conclusion: Classification of Individuals

  • Types of Individuals:

    • Tragic heroes are acknowledged and understood within ethical structures.

    • Knights of faith, like Abraham, are harder to comprehend and lack communal support.

    • The pursuit of faith is a deeply personal and passionate endeavor that defies universal categorization.