Philosophy in Dialogue:
Reflexivity, Languages, and Intercultural Understanding

Prof. Tilman Borsche’s research talk explored central questions of philosophy and its practice, focusing on the interplay between language, thinking, and community, while addressing challenges in modern academia and intercultural philosophy. Borsche emphasized the essence of philosophy as the act of asking fundamental questions, which he described as “last questions.” These inquiries, though rooted in his philosophical tradition, are not universal, as he acknowledged that different cultures approach foundational questions in unique ways. He argued that philosophy is distinct from other activities due to its reflective nature and focus on confronting primitive, shared concepts, such as truth and being, which serve as starting points for discourse.

Borsche avoided defining philosophy rigidly, as definitions risk exclusion and oversimplification. Instead, he emphasized philosophy as a practice, one that evolves through conversation and engagement. He highlighted the importance of dialogue that fosters mutual understanding, noting that philosophical exchanges should not aim to dominate but to learn from differing perspectives. Trust, he argued, is crucial in such conversations, as it allows one to approach another’s views with the assumption that they hold validity, even if initially unclear. The goal of philosophy, he suggested, is to modify and refine one’s position through interaction, not to prevail in argumentation.

Addressing the relationship between language and community, Borsche stressed that philosophy is inherently tied to language and its shared, socialized use. He critiqued the notion of English as a universal academic language, arguing that linguistic plurality is essential for preserving diverse ways of thinking. While acknowledging English’s utility as a lingua franca, he warned against its dominance, which risks erasing the nuances embedded in other languages and their associated worldviews. The richness of philosophical discourse, he maintained, lies in its multiplicity of languages and perspectives.

Borsche also reflected on the limitations and opportunities within academia. He advised young scholars to remain true to their philosophical inquiries, resisting societal or institutional pressures that prioritize conformity over intellectual exploration. He described philosophy as a deeply personal yet communal endeavor, requiring spaces of academic freedom where open dialogue can flourish. Borsche celebrated philosophy’s capacity to adapt, emphasizing that it should engage with intercultural perspectives and non-traditional forms of expression, such as art, music, and architecture, which he viewed as extensions of linguistic articulation.

The talk also addressed the ethical dimension of intercultural philosophy. Borsche advocated for an approach that combines openness with critical engagement, allowing for meaningful exchanges across cultures. He acknowledged that philosophy is often shaped by positionality—how one’s identity influences their perspective—and encouraged recognizing and embracing this dynamic to foster deeper understanding.

Borsche underscored that philosophy thrives in dialogue, reflexivity, and plurality. He called for a philosophy that remains open to new forms of thinking and expression while rooted in the communal pursuit of understanding. Through these reflections, he highlighted philosophy’s transformative potential in bridging diverse perspectives and addressing the pressing challenges of the modern world.