RE: A Lesson in the Practicality of Philosophy I Learned Today
September 26, 2014 at 5:04 pm
(This post was last modified: September 26, 2014 at 5:07 pm by Neo-Scholastic.)
I guess it depends on the meaning of practical. :-0
I do think the practice of philosophy does improve a persons relationship with the world, but only to the extent that you don't take it too seriously. It has its place. And that place, I think, is helping you to see yourself and societal systems from the outside. Plus there is the issue of authenticity. Are you living in a manner consistent with who you are? And just exactly who (or what) you are is philosophical question. For example, I am a strong proponent of existential free will. As a result I always find myself saying to myself, "I have a choice" rather than just proceeding under force of habit.
I also think philosophy forces you to step back for a moment and reflect on what really has value in your life and why.
I do think the practice of philosophy does improve a persons relationship with the world, but only to the extent that you don't take it too seriously. It has its place. And that place, I think, is helping you to see yourself and societal systems from the outside. Plus there is the issue of authenticity. Are you living in a manner consistent with who you are? And just exactly who (or what) you are is philosophical question. For example, I am a strong proponent of existential free will. As a result I always find myself saying to myself, "I have a choice" rather than just proceeding under force of habit.
I also think philosophy forces you to step back for a moment and reflect on what really has value in your life and why.
