The YouTube channel ‘A Cup of Philosophy‘ is run by a group of young women who post animated videos explaining the political philosophy of jailed Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) leader Abdullah Öcalan.
Medya News spoke to Carina Müller, a contributor to the channel, which features videos on civilisation, history, education, society, patriarchy and women’s struggle.
Can you tell us more about your channel?
We are a group of young women, who believe that the fundament of democratising our world lies in understanding our history and developing a philosophical understanding far from domination, power and state.
What is the purpose of these videos?
Not everybody is ready to read a long book – in the capitalist society, we struggle to find time for and give meaning to deeper philosophical discussions, that most likely will change our understanding of the meaning of life. Short videos give an introduction to pave the way for deeper research by the viewer.
Ultimately, our aim is to share an alternative view on philosophical questions. As taught today, philosophy as well as history and other liberal arts often show a white male-dominated perspective. Especially in Europe, we learn that philosophy found its beginning in ancient Greece. Deeper studies have shown us though, that the beginning lies much further back.
By sharing Abdullah Öcalan’s fundamental studies and ideas, as well as remembering myths of old Mesopotamia and of today, we aim to create a shared fundament we can build a truly democratic society on.
What does Öcalan mean for you?
Abdullah Öcalan has paved the way for this alternative philosophy. His studies, thoughts and analysis is based on a very deep understanding of history and society. He does not isolate topics to research them, he has a – rather uncommon – holistic approach. His perspectives are unique and essential not only to the Kurdish liberation struggle, but also to modern-day philosophy. We believe he has shared the theory with us, which will lead us to a liberated and democratic society.
Do you have any message for Kurdish youth or the global youth?
Be curious and take action! Be curious about your history, about the meaning of life, about philosophy. The problems we have today are connected to our history, we can search for answers in Öcalan´s philosophy. With this basis, fight the passive behaviour we are taught by the capitalist system, start fighting for the alternative life in society you want!
