Earliest Irish philosophers
Aonghus Óg
Aonghus Óg is a figure from Irish mythology and is associated with love and youth. Specific quotes that are attributed to him may not exist, but statements inspired by their themes endure as follows;
“In the heart of every soul lies the eternal flame of love, forever young and unyielding, igniting the depths of existence with its boundless passion.”
Finnian of Clonard (c. 470 – 549)
He was an early Irish Christian monk and scholar who founded the famous monastic school of Clonard in County Meath. Finnian is considered one of the Twelve Apostles of Ireland he is known for his teachings to early Irish Christianity and scholarship.
Writings of others attribute some sayings and teachings to him. Here’s a statement inspired by the spirit of his teachings:
“Let wisdom be your guide, and humility your companion. For in the quiet depths of the soul, true understanding is found.”
Columba (c. 521 – 597):
Known as Saint Columba, an Irish abbot, missionary, and monastic founder. Columba played a significant role in converting the Picts to Christianity in Scotland. Credited with numerous miraculous deeds he is one of Ireland’s patron saints.
Specific quotes aren’t directly attributed to Saint Columba, however, traditions and writings about his life and teachings suggest sayings associated to him.
“May the light of faith guide your steps, and may the strength of love embolden your heart, for in service to others, true greatness is found.”
Augustine of Hippo (354 – 430):
Augustine was not Irish by birth. However, his influence on Irish philosophy through his writings and teachings has been profound and worthy of inclusion. His works were studied and revered by early Irish scholars and theologians, contributing to the development of Irish Christian thought.
“You have made us for yourself. O Lord, and our heart is restless until it rests in you.”
“Faith is to believe what you do not see; the reward of this faith is to see what you believe.”
“The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page.”
“Love is the beauty of the soul.”
“Patience is the companion of wisdom.”
“Hope has two beautiful daughters; their names are Anger and Courage. Anger at the way things are, and Courage to see that they do not remain as they are.”
Notable philosophers active in the more recent times:
Richard Kearney (born 1954):
An Irish philosopher known for his work in existentialism, hermeneutics, and the philosophy of religion. He has written extensivily on topics including; imagination, narrative, and the ethics of hospitality.
“To be is to be bound up in time and memory. To remember is to imagine and to imagine is to be free.”
Philip Pettit (born 1945):
An Irish philosopher who has made significant contributions to political philosophy, ethics, and the philosophy of mind. Pettit’s work often focuses on republican political theory and the nature of freedom and authority.
“Freedom is not just about non-interference; it is about the assurance that we can act effectively in the world.”
William Desmond (born 1951):
Known for his work in metaphysics, aesthetics, and philosophical theology. Desmond’s philosophy explores themes of the between, otherness, and the metaphysical dimensions of human existence.
“Philosophy is not merely a pursuit of wisdom; it is an engagement with the possibility of transformation and the wonder of existence.”
Eileen Brennan (1932–2020):
An Irish philosopher who specialized in ethics, feminist philosophy, and the philosophy of education. Brennan’s work addressed issues of social justice, gender equality, and moral education.
“Laughter is much more important than applause. Applause is almost a duty. Laughter is a reward.”
Joseph O’Leary (born 1949):
An Irish philosopher and theologian known for his work in hermeneutics, religious studies, and the philosophy of language. O’Leary’s writings often engage with the intersection of Christianity and contemporary culture.
“Philosophy is a dialogue, an ongoing conversation about the deepest questions of existence, meaning, and truth.”
Modern-day philosophers in Ireland who contribute to philosophical thought and discourse.
Richard Kearney (1954)
Known for his work in continental philosophy, hermeneutics, and philosophy of religion has contributed to the field of narrative philosophy.
“Narrative imagination shapes our perception of reality; it colors our memory and it dictates the choices we make.“
William Desmond (1951)
A philosopher known for his work in metaphysics, ethics, and aesthetics. Desmond’s philosophy often explores themes of otherness, transcendence, and the human condition.
“Philosophy is not merely a pursuit of wisdom; it is an engagement with the possibility of transformation and the wonder of existence.”
Dermot Moran (1952)
A philosopher specializing in phenomenology, existentialism, and contemporary European philosophy. Moran has written extensively on the works of Edmund Husserl and Martin Heidegger.
Maeve Cooke (1950)
A philosopher known for her work in moral and political philosophy. Issues of interest were justice, human rights, and cosmopolitanism.
Maeve Cooke’s philosophical ideas reflect a commitment to ethical and political inquiry, with a focus on justice, human rights, cosmopolitanism, and critical engagement with social and political issues.
Joseph O’Leary (1949)
A philosopher focusing on continental philosophy, theology, and cultural criticism. O’Leary’s work often engages with postmodern thought and Catholic theology. His work tends to be more academic and scholarly in nature, focusing on nuanced arguments and analysis within the realm of philosophy and theology.
I cherish the wisdom of our forefathers and have curated the book ‘Irish Words of Wisdom. It is available for purchase in my shop on this website.