out of everything we've read so far, Candide has the most accessible storyline. As a fictional novella, it is easily read and easily understood. Yet, I find myself floundering about trying to get a hold on the underlying satire and allegory.
Regardless, I have gleaned quite a bit. I see Voltaire making many comments against blind philosophical faith. We cannot follow that which someone says simply because they said it. Pangloss' teachings get Candide into so much trouble, yet the poor fool continues to follow as would an ill-visioned puppy. It's ridiculous. And it's probably a large part of why man cannot turn philosophy into a science of metaphysics. We cannot have any true progression because we cannot think for ourselves, or we totally disregard really truth in favor of tradition.
My comment will be found on the blog of McDade.
I love the way you put this. And I totally agree. Your last point is very true, and will probably stand true for all of time.
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