Philosophy as an “Art of Relationships”
Research Talk with Andreas Hetzel on Interdisciplinary Dialogue, Responsibility, and Relationality
Our research talk with Andreas Hetzel explored a variety of philosophical themes. Prof. Hetzel emphasized that philosophy relies on exchanges with other disciplines and benefits from critically examining its own assumptions, a point central to his recent publication of Handbook on Rhetoric and Philosophy with Gerald Posselt. The talk addressed the concept of purity, particularly its “imaginary” form, and how this connects to different philosophical traditions in India. Hetzel also discussed Hindu perspectives on time, offering insights into their cyclical and fluid understanding of temporal concepts. He encouraged a critical engagement with his lecture’s title, demonstrating how philosophy can remain open and reflective.
Hetzel proposed viewing philosophy as an “art of relationships,” arguing for a form of practice beyond academic settings. He highlighted the importance of building connections and fostering dialogue outside universities, making philosophy relevant in everyday contexts. This idea also shapes his approach to the concept of human exceptionalism, which he reframed as a responsibility rather than a form of privileged isolation. Drawing on Val Plumwood’s “Human Vulnerability and the Experience of Being Prey” and his own recently published monograph on biodiversity, Hetzel illustrated how humans are part of a larger relational web that includes other beings and the environment. The discussion also explored the contrast between “isolation” as based on a philosophical framework of substance, and “connection” as based on a relational and social epistemology. Hetzel proposed to think about human and non-human existence as defined by relationships rather than isolation.
The talk provided clear and thoughtful perspectives on topics like purity, Indian philosophical traditions, and the relational nature of human responsibility. Hetzel’s approach encourages a view of philosophy as a practical and relational activity rather than a purely theoretical one.
