MORCOism

MORCOism

"MORCOism" is a new philosophical current, based on the open discussion of subjects, spurred on by the enjoyment of MORning COffee (MOR.CO.), among persons, for which the minimum requirement is their mutual appreciation.

The essence of "philosophy", as it was embodied by Socrates, is precisely the approach through the search for truth, in other words, in order to enable people to live their lives more wisely. The very word "philosophy" is derived from ancient Greek and it is of course a compound word, with the first component “philo-” meaning "love" (in ancient Greek the verb “φιλώ” pronounced as philό means love) and the second component “sophy” meaning “wisdom” (in Greek the word is “σοφία”, pronounced as sophίa) meaning the reasonable/successful management of knowledge.

Already from the end of the 5th century B.C., the great philosopher, Socrates, laid the foundations of such debates – of philosophical and not rhetorical/forensic hue – with two famous phrases (recorded by Plato in his Dialogues):

·     “... (for a long time) it seemed brilliant to know the cause of everything, why it is created, why it disappears and why it exists. I kept going back and forth, as I was examining such issues...”, Plato’s ‘Phaedo’. He, therefore, sets out the basic principles of philosophical search.

·  “... these (means the orators), therefore, with their art succeed in convincing, not with documentation (translating the word “διδάσκοντες” which means “teaching”) but by building (translating the word “ποιούντες” which means “making”) their expressed opinion”, Plato’s ‘Theaetetus’. He sets out, here, the essential difference between, on the one hand, the exploratory hue of philosophy and, on the other hand, the practice of the orators, who build the opinion which they provide.

Therefore, based on the above, philosophical search takes place in debates when the participants – experts or not – are investigating views on issues posed and not when they are rhetorical, that is, when, in the Socratic sense, they build (with the appropriate arguments) the view which they at times want to formulate.

In MORCOism we are taught by Socrates not so much his personal views on philosophical or other issues – otherwise we ourselves are not philosophers – but his approach, the methodology of the management of opinions raised in an open discussion with experts and non-experts. This is Socrates' greatest contribution to the world's philosophical thought.

When the MORCOists meet to enjoy their morning coffee, what they really share is their mutual appreciation, the kindness of everyone who speaks and the respect to the opinions of others.

The MORCOists perform in-depth analyses of issues that are put on the table and while they have a philosophical disposition – under the Socratic exploratory concept – they do not seek from any participant any philosophical background, no specialised opinion if such an opinion may not exist. The mere aim is to seek an exploratory disposition and respect for the ideas and opinions of others.

MORCOism has nothing to do with an academic exercise or an intelligence contest, nor does it aim to confuse non-philosophical members with "deep" and dark thoughts. 

For the MORCOists, this seems to be the original philosophy. And this is an experiential finding which is provided through the experience of MORCOistic debates.

Every MORCOist has the right to issue his/her opinion on a subject. Another participant in the debate may submit a contrary opinion, respecting, always, the right of others to have, each, their own opinion. The comments and reviews that will be heard relate to the subject and are not addressed to persons. For the MORCOists, the zero tolerance policy for humiliating, offensive or abusive language or behaviour against others is spontaneously applicable. Therefore, MORCOists constitute a civilised and polite society of people.

In this context, some base axes of this philosophical current are shown, such as:

·    The the debate is open and there is mutual appreciation/respect: Although participants in such debates feel passionate about their ideas, some may not think in the same way as others, but in this way, they can create triggers for discussion. Whatever is included in the agenda, there are no personal attacks.

·      The MORCOists make up discussion groups, not treatment groups: We all have different life experiences that have influenced our perceptions, opinions and beliefs, and sometimes we may also be able to discuss issues that cause strong emotions. Although some of us are skilled scientists and some are working as advisors, everyone in his/her field, the purpose of the group is to discuss the issues of the day, as thoroughly as possible. It's not about discussing personal issues. There is, of course, no shortage of moments when exclamations are heard showing that the team is having a good time.

The discussions of the MORCOists are therefore open to comments and issues. Our philosophical society and mentality are reflected in our debates.