Philosophy
'Doing Philosophy' is my term for thinking about things philosophical.
Philosophical things are thoughts we have which, at the time we think them,
leave us confused or without an acceptable answer. We can do philosophy by
ourselves (by reflecting or meditating on the question that concerns us), with
one other person (talking with a friend to try and work out a particular
question of concern) or in a group (perhaps as part of a Café Philo).
When we meditate or reflect on a question we have often been stimulated to
do so by something which has happened in our lives, perhaps someone we
know has died, or someone we are close to is ill, maybe we are confused
about the society we live in, about religion or the meaning of our career.
Sometimes we will read a book and that will provide us with inspiration,
sometimes we will take a walk or watch other enjoying themselves or the
company of their families. Look at my own Thoughts and Reflections to see
how we can do this.
Other people, our friends are an important part of our lives. Talking to others
allows us to see our troubles from a different point of view, another
perspective. The thoughts and fortunes of others make us stop and think.
Some people want to talk to a counsellor who will give unalloyed attention to
their worries. Those that have a loosely philosophical problem will often talk to
a philosophical counsellor.
Many people enjoy the dynamics of a group and group philosophical
discussion can be very rewarding for those who not only want to think about
their philosophical problems but who also want to talk about them and listen to
what others think. Philosophical discussions can be had by taking part in Café
Philos.
What are the skills of philosophy?
We can all do philosophy and our lives can be enhanced by it. It is not difficult
and there are a set of tools which philosophers use that are readily available.
The main tools are logical ones. There is nothing mysterious about logic, it is
part of our nature to act logically and to know when something is illogical.
Philosophers also understand that in order to work out questions they must
test their ideas against the ideas of others. This method is used throughout
science and the humanities. That is why students and academics write essays
and books and go to conferences.
When we philosophize we must not be afraid to say what we think. But we
must think carefully, we must consider what it is we are thinking about and
respect the ideas of others in the same way.
When we do philosophy we must not think of ourselves but of the general
case, we must move from the particular to the universal.
A good way to start is to expose your ideas to the ideas of others. Post some thoughts on my Practical Philosophy forum, or reply to the thoughts of someone else.
Need
someone to do philosophy with?
If
you cannot find someone to do philosophy with or if you feel more
comfortable working with one person, then some practical philosophy
sessions may be what you are looking for. Contact
me
and find out how this can be arranged. If you would like to test out
some of your ideas in a small forum of like-minded people, do try the Practical
Philosophy forum. You may wish review the contents of my
Blog.
You may wish to read up on philosophy. If so look at my booklist which is arranged under topics.
