For the last couple of months, I have been transitioning away from my role as editor of the Public Philosophy series at the Blog of the APA. The New Year is as auspicious a time as any to begin anew; as of January 1st, the transition will be complete. I am leaving things in the eminently capable hands of Martina Valković. Martina is not new to the APA Blog. She has been serving as an editor for the successful “Perspectives in Democracy” series, which has featured such posts as these. By way of an introduction, Martina has kindly answered some questions on her background, what she envisions for the series, and who might make a guest appearance at her philosophical dinner party.
Tell us a little about yourself and what brought you to the Public Philosophy editor role.
MV: While working on my doctoral dissertation, I had periods when I doubted whether my work made much sense—what is the use, after all, of spending so much time and effort on writing highly technical texts unlikely to be read or understood by more than a small group of people? This is not what philosophy is about, I thought. What made me love philosophy so much in the first place were discussions, constructing arguments and counterarguments, that constant to and fro of conversation—expressed in the plainest possible language and in a way that as many people as possible can be part of it. The kind of philosophy that I care the most about is done in a public, open, and inviting manner. So, in the biggest election year in history, I pitched a series on democracy to the Public Philosophy beat of the APA Blog. After a few months, a position for the editor became available, and I applied. I am honored to be given the opportunity to carry out this role.
What excites you most about public philosophy?
MV: While now—after some time has passed—I think differently about the sense and meaning of working on your PhD, I still have the same views regarding the importance of public philosophy, which makes me very excited to take on this role.
Are there particular themes or questions you find especially timely and would like to explore in the Public Philosophy beat?
MV: Yes, plenty! Next to posts exploring democracy, I would also like to see those exploring the various meanings of freedom. These are both classic topics and especially timely, with a multitude of different perspectives on and understandings of these concepts. Technology, especially in relation to how it influences our societies as well as our inner worlds, is another timely and important subject. Philosophy of film and music is always interesting and engaging, as well. Food is another rich topic to explore—from the ethics of its production and distribution to the aesthetic experiences related to it.
What do you think the role of public philosophy in public discourse is?
MV: I find it very important that philosophy remains open to the broad public, also outside of academia. Especially in the light of the current world events (including the climate crisis, geopolitical instability, war, threats to democratic order, among other things), it remains vital for philosophers to engage with and contribute to public debates and to make sense of complex and multifaceted phenomena.
What is a philosophical question or topic that you find especially fascinating right now?
MV: At the moment, I am particularly fascinated by the question of human autonomy: how to make sense of it and what it entails.
If you could invite three philosophers (alive or dead) to a dinner party, who would you invite and why?
MV: Hannah Arendt to ensure good company, Marx to add the heat, and Wittgenstein for some spice.
And what philosophical food would be served?
MV: Risotto, not least for the state of meditation the constant stirring brings you in.
