Philosophy Sharing Malta
Thomas O. Scarborough | Holism | Annual Philosophy Lecture | 20.03.2025
The 11th Annual Philosophy Lecture, delivered by South African philosopher Rev. Thomas O. Scarborough on Holism, took place on Thursday, 20 March 2025, at the Grand Hotel Excelsior, Malta.
In his lecture, Rev. Scarborough proposed a new metaphysical approach to holism, arguing that the parts of a whole are interconnected in ways that go beyond the traditional definition of a whole as merely the sum of its constituent parts.
In the first part of his talk, Scarborough explained how, in formulating mathematical equations, constructing concepts, devising algorithms, and even forming sentences, we inevitably exclude everything that is not included. He distinguished between the finite whole—which is definable and nameable—and the nameless whole, which exists beyond what we can define. He warned that focusing solely on finite wholes that rely on equations, algorithms and language, leads to excessive pride and the illusion of control. He argued that fundamental aspects of human experience—such as consciousness, identity, and the need for God—cannot be fully grasped within a finite whole.
In the second part of the lecture, Scarborough illustrated how humanity, through language, materialism, and attempts to control nature, ethics, and education, has cut itself off from the nameless whole. Scientific progress, he argued, is driven by selective focus, excluding elements that do not fit within cause-and-effect principles. This fragmented approach has been the ultimate culprit responsible behind environmental crises, including ocean pollution, climate change, and species extinction. He also contended that in arguing for God’s existence, we often remove anything that directly connects God to our lives.
Scarborough called for a renewed awareness of the nameless whole—urging us to expand our perspectives, rethink our behaviors, and allow nature the space to exist beyond the constraints imposed by human scientific pursuits. He encouraged thinking beyond conventional words, concepts, and frameworks that tend to limit our understanding.
During the event, members who had been with the Philosophy Sharing Foundation since the period of its founding in 2012 through 2014 were presented with Scarborough's book This Town as a token of appreciation for their loyal support. Life members were also acknowledged for their support. Moving forward, the Foundation aims to continue recognizing long-term supporters through continued gestures of appreciation, whether through constant subscription renewals or active participation in events.
The Foundation extends its sincere gratitude to Rev. Thomas Scarborough for travelling 8,000 km from Cape Town to deliver his thought-provoking lecture in Malta.