Famous quote by Martin Heidegger

"The possible ranks higher than the actual"

About this Quote

Martin Heidegger's quote, "The possible ranks higher than the actual", encapsulates a philosophical point of view deeply rooted in existential and phenomenological customs. This declaration suggests that potentiality, or what might be, holds more significance and value than what presently exists. To unpack this, we require to dive into Heidegger's more comprehensive viewpoint that often grapples with concepts of being, time, and existence.

To start with, Heidegger's emphasis on "the possible" can be linked to his exploration of being in his influential work, "Being and Time". Heidegger presumes that human existence (or Dasein) is fundamentally identified by its potentiality. To put it simply, the essence of our being is not figured out by the static truths of our existing truth but by our capability to visualize and pursue numerous possibilities within our lives. This ties into his idea of "thrownness", where individuals find themselves in a world not of their choosing, and yet they have the flexibility to task possibilities and create meaning.

By putting the possible above the real, Heidegger might be highlighting the transformative power of capacity. The actual is the realm of what is, restricted by the limitations of the present moment and previous occasions. In contrast, the possible represents a realm of flexibility and creativity, where new paths can be imagined and pursued. This emphasis on possible talks to the human condition's vibrant nature-- identified by growth, modification, and the intrinsic unpredictability of life.

In addition, Heidegger's quote can be translated as a critique of static or deterministic worldviews, which prioritize the current state of affairs over future possibilities. The idea underscores the importance of imagining and working towards what might be rather than resigning to the restraints of what is. It motivates welcoming change and unpredictability as fundamental aspects of existence.

In conclusion, Heidegger's assertion that the possible ranks higher than the actual prompts us to value our capability for prospective more than the restrictions of our present reality. This viewpoint invites us to live authentically, accepting our possibilities and the liberty that comes with them, instead of ending up being mired in the truths of our current circumstances.

About the Author

Martin Heidegger This quote is written / told by Martin Heidegger between September 26, 1889 and May 26, 1976. He was a famous Philosopher from Germany. The author also have 29 other quotes.
Go to author profile

Similar Quotes