Socratic Dialogue with Cornel West at Sacramento Public Library

Philosopher, professor, and political activist Cornel West was recently hosted by the Sacramento Public Library for a Socratic dialogue the day after Christmas. Being that it was the day after Christmas it was quite surprising to see a larger-than-expected crowd of 300 for a public event, but the event was also mentioned in the news on ABC 10. The topic of the community dialogue was "where do we go from this moment in time into a new decade." With current headlines and what has been mentioned as the “end of the decade” I thought that the speech was timely and appropriate.

Cornel West to speaking to the audience at Sacramento Public Library.

 The last time I really remember focusing on Cornel West was when he was talking about some of the challenges Barack Obama was facing as, not just the President of the United States, but particularly as the first black President. I thought West had some interesting things to say during that time, but of course, with the Obama presidency I found myself experiencing a lot of the changes that were going on, for better or worse. And even in 2010 I did not really see a start of a new decade. 2010 was just a round number, I guess.

Before West actually took the stage the lady introducing him recalled how she did some research from which to gain some background and biographical info. She mentioned that West grew-up in Sacramento and was part of a black middle-class population of the Sacramento region. It was noted that the black middle-class is rarely spoken of or depicted. I certainly was shocked to hear of such in contrast to what I’ve seen here. For some reason I always associate Cornel West with Philadelphia.

As West’s speech got underway, he talked about significant issues, such as the idea that America is currently in denial about some things, as is the case historically, according to West. Such denial, he says, is in regard to forms of “patriarchy” of American culture and society, and this denial has had some bearing on how people develop and mature. This thwarted maturity is a cause for major issues, and the Socratic dialogue is one way to discuss how people can and should mature. West stated that the future is about “long-distance-running” and sustainability; though, contrarily, a lot of today’s methods are very short-sighted.

“That’s a moral and spiritual issue.”

Later West clarified that the purpose of a Socratic speech is to create dialogue in hopes of finding solutions to current issues and how to move forward from them. His overall effect during his speech was very rallying and inspirational as he said, “your voice is like your fingerprint”, and should be heard. He said that the tradition in America is self-emptying, donating, giving and service, and that “whatever goodness we have is in service to others.” He said that the young people should have a deep calling rather than just a desire for a career. When I reflect on being a student and “when I grow up…” it seems that this deep calling and magnetism is missing in students’ motivations.

In speaking of motivations West touched on the topic of solidarity with each other, and often he remarked that particular issues are “a moral and spiritual issue.” I remember citing that same idea but, really moral & spiritual issues boil down to cultural and intellectual issues. West points-out that a lot of today’s young folks are unloved and uncared for. 

The after-Christmas crowd was larger than expected.

At some point during the Q&A a young woman from Los Angeles asked how to establish short-term trust with people we just met. West’s answer is to “love thy neighbor” and “be the person you want others to be”. I honestly think that Americans have had such a sense of community and common decency historically, but with a lot of change and influx that becomes difficult and taken for granted. West also went further to say that “nowadays, everything is for sale, which creates the problem of distrust.”

In wrapping his speech West said that he would be collaborating with Bernie Sanders in the name of something bigger than themselves. As well, West said that fair distribution of wealth and access to capital is only a beginning to improving America, and that “those in power should never be deferred to or worshipped as gods.” The speech was beneficial indeed, and West gave thanks for institutions like libraries that provide access to speeches and gatherings.