Meaning: Johann Georg Hamann, a philosopher and writer from the 18th century, was known for his contributions to the fields of language, religion, and aesthetics. The quote provided reflects his contemplation on the nature of human thought and the role of language in shaping our ability to think. In this quote, Hamann poses a fundamental question about the essence of human cognition: how is the power to think possible?

At first glance, the question might seem simple, but upon deeper reflection, it delves into the complexities of human consciousness and the processes by which we perceive, analyze, and understand the world around us. Hamann's inquiry into the "power to think" encompasses not only the cognitive faculties that enable reasoning and comprehension but also the broader philosophical implications of human consciousness.

The phrase "think right and left, before and without, with and above experience" suggests a multifaceted approach to thinking that transcends mere logical deduction. Hamann seems to be highlighting the dynamic and versatile nature of human thought, which encompasses not only rational analysis but also intuition, imagination, and the ability to transcend empirical limitations. This notion aligns with the concept of holistic cognition, where the mind engages in diverse modes of thinking to comprehend reality in its entirety.

Hamann's mention of "the genealogical priority of language" introduces the pivotal role of language in shaping human thought. Language is not just a tool for communication; it serves as the medium through which concepts, ideas, and experiences are articulated and shared. In this context, language becomes intricately linked to the structure and development of human cognition. Through language, we not only express our thoughts but also construct and organize them, thereby influencing the very process of thinking itself.

The quote implies that language is not merely a product of human thought but also a fundamental determinant of its nature. This aligns with the linguistic relativity hypothesis, which posits that the structure of a language can affect the cognition of its speakers. In this sense, the "genealogical priority of language" suggests that the development of language precedes and shapes the evolution of human thought, rather than being a passive reflection of pre-existing cognitive processes.

Hamann's contemplation on the relationship between language and thought resonates with the broader philosophical discourse on the nature of consciousness and the human mind. His emphasis on the dynamic and multidimensional aspects of thinking challenges reductionist perspectives that seek to explain cognition solely through mechanistic or deterministic frameworks. Instead, he invites us to consider the intricate interplay between language, experience, and the cognitive faculties that underpin our understanding of the world.

In conclusion, Johann Hamann's quote encapsulates a profound inquiry into the nature of human thought and the pivotal role of language in shaping our cognitive processes. By posing the question of how the "power to think" is possible and highlighting the genealogical priority of language, Hamann invites us to contemplate the intricate relationship between language and cognition. His reflections serve as a reminder of the complexity and richness of human consciousness and the multifaceted nature of the processes that enable us to engage with the world and with each other.