Only if the human being becomes the custodian of the principle can they become the warden of truth in which a human world is repeatedly created.

This would be the inception of a philosophical answer to this question, however, limiting the degree of the great acceleration to the scope in which the truth can still be preserved. Truth in classical philosophy is treated as a problem, as it becomes most apparent when it is threatened or lost. Thus, it becomes clear that truth does not designate a hidden sense of the world, but rather a playing field in which we must engage in the effort to free what is true from layers of error and illusion, therefore solving the problem. This truth must then be preserved by a warden, which, in my view, is a responsibility concerning each and every one of us.

Now turning to the condition under which this preservation is rendered possible, the named principle describes the philosophical idea of “the Good”. The Good is the ultimate principle, unifying all ideas and granting consistency, as well as integrity, to all ideas. Being grounded in the Good, an idea can become truly itself, which is necessary in order for us to first perceive and then understand the idea.

But how can this “Good” be found? – Well, this is where the difficulties arise. Even Socrates, one of the founders of philosophy, had to admit that he did not know the answer. So, is it simply futile to interrogate this principle?

As far as I am concerned, it makes it even more necessary to engage with this idea, especially in daily life, though maybe in less depth than what classical philosophy would propose. By trying to look beyond the immediately perceivable, we can already come closer to the ultimate principle and approach the level of knowledge required to become a custodian of the principle, therefore also becoming more and more capable of preserving the truth.

Relating these insights to the great acceleration, I would say that the speed characterizing the development in our epoch must be accompanied by society’s attempt to become wardens of truth. Otherwise, I fear, the current and future state of the world cannot possibly be sustainable with regard to the preservation of truth and staying true to one’s values, no matter how diverse they might be.