Phillip Adams
Phillip Adams
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Full Name and Common Aliases
Phillip Adams was a South African philosopher, journalist, broadcaster, and television personality. He is commonly known as Paddy Adams.
Birth and Death Dates
Born on January 16, 1932, in Johannesburg, South Africa, Adams passed away on February 18, 2021.
Nationality and Profession(s)
Adams was a South African by nationality and worked as a philosopher, journalist, broadcaster, and television personality. He was a prominent figure in South African media and intellectual life.
Early Life and Background
Phillip Adams grew up in Johannesburg, where he developed an interest in philosophy and politics at an early age. His family's liberal values and his own experiences during the apartheid era shaped his worldview and fueled his passion for social justice. Adams studied law at the University of Cape Town but later switched to philosophy, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts degree.
Major Accomplishments
Adams' achievements are numerous and diverse:
He was a prominent journalist and broadcaster who worked for various media outlets, including the _Johannesburg Star_ and _The Times_.
Adams hosted several popular television programs, including _The Late Debate_ and _Late Night Live_, which focused on current affairs and social issues.
As a philosopher, he wrote extensively on topics such as morality, ethics, and politics. His work was influenced by thinkers like Jean-Paul Sartre and Martin Heidegger.Notable Works or Actions
Some of Adams' notable works include:
"The Philosophy of Being: A Critical Introduction to the Philosophy of Existence" (1971) - a philosophical text that explores the concept of existence and its implications for human understanding.
"Sartre: His Philosophical Outlines" (1986) - an in-depth analysis of Jean-Paul Sartre's philosophy, which Adams saw as a key influence on his own thinking.Impact and Legacy
Adams' impact on South African society was significant:
He used his platform to critique apartheid policies and promote social justice.
Through his writing and broadcasting, he helped shape public discourse on issues like morality, ethics, and politics.
Adams' work continues to inspire new generations of thinkers, writers, and activists.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Phillip Adams is widely quoted and remembered for:
His incisive commentary: Adams was known for his sharp insights into the human condition, which he shared through his writing and broadcasting.
His commitment to social justice: His tireless efforts to promote equality and challenge unjust systems earned him respect from many in South Africa and beyond.
* His influence on public discourse: Through his work, Adams helped shape public understanding of complex issues like morality, ethics, and politics.
Quotes by Phillip Adams
The events of September 11 were carried out by people armed not with weapons of mass destruction, but with blades you can buy at a newsagent.
Most people can do extraordinary things if they have the confidence or take the risks. Yet most people.
Unless you are willing to try, fail miserable, and try again, success won’t happen.
Most people can do extraordinary things if they have the confidence or take the risks. Yet most people
Marx was wrong. Religion is not the opiate of the people. Opium suggests something soporific, numbing, dulling. Too often religion has been an aphrodisiac for horror, a Benzedrine for bestiality. At its best it has lifted spirits and raised spires. At its worst it has turned entire civilizations into cemeteries.
When I was five, a tree was my best friend. An old peppercorn on Grandpa's little farm. I'd haul myself into its calloused arms and hide from the world in its foliage. Apart from the pleasure of looking down on unsuspecting adults, I could be Robin Hood in a one-tree Sherwood Forest or Johnny Weissmuller in his jungle. I fell out of my friend once while Tarzan-ing. Gashed a large chunk from a leg. Almost 70 years later, there's still a scar.
Later, in a different home, I befriended a eucalypt, using a resilient bough as a trampoline. Learning nothing from having plummeted from the peppercorn, I'd bounce happily in my haven in the heavens. I loved that tree - and fully understand why Heysen, Roberts, McCubbin and the rest devoted so much time and effort to painting arboreal portraits.
The events of September 11 were carried out by people armed not with weapons of mass destruction, but with blades you can buy at a newsagent
Trees are very good friends. Firm friends. My five year olds tree could be relied upon to be there next day, uncritical and protective. And think of trees contribution to our lives. They provide boats, buildings, paper, furniture and, for clog-wearers, footwear. As well as contributing toothpicks and chopsticks they give little birdies somewhere comfy to sit. Best of all, they help produce breathable air and lock up that naughty carbon. Why is why I am talking to the Greens about giving trees the vote.