what is philosophy :: essays research papers

Very briefly, philosophical system might be regarded as a conceptual enquiry dealing with fundamental issues relating to life, knowledge and determine. By conceptual enquiry we mean an enquiry that relies primarily on exact cogitate. This includes Analysing the meaning of concepts Identifying logical connections between theories Evaluating arguments and exposing fallacies Here is a Chinese theme article from MingPao on how ism improves critical thinking. Philosophy and other subjects consort to such a conception of school of thought, ism is distinctive in two its method and subject matter. Art or literature might also deal with fundamental issues in life, but the use of critical argumentation is not a necessary part of artistic expression. Critical reasoning of course plays an important role in science, but science is an existential enquiry into the nature of the world, relying on observations and experiments. In such respects philosophy is to a greater extent like mat hematics and logic. However, the subject matter of philosophy is more general in that it deals with all sorts of different areas outside mathematics and logic, such as religion and morality. Although philosophy is different from science, it would be a error to conclude that philosophy basinnot contribute to the development of science. Philosophers can help scientists crystalise the basic concepts in scientific theories, and use their skills in logic to rate the strength of evidence supporting or criticizing particular theories. Many sciences (e.g. psychology) primarily developed out of philosophy. What philosophy can doWhy should you cogitation philosophy? If you are busy and dont have the patience or beguile to reflect on fundamental issues, then perhaps philosophy is not for you. But for people who are interested in critical reflection, philosophy can be an enjoyable activity.There are other reasons for doing philosophy apart from pleasure. First, philosophical skills in thi nking and writing and help us in describing and understanding theories and ideologies. Here philosophers take up the task of a cartographer, mapping out conceptual terrain and logical structure. Second, as mentioned earlier, philosophy can be an important tool in helping us pull ahead knowledge. Logic and critical reasoning are necessary to achieve soundbox and in determining the right conclusions to be drawn given our observations and experiences. Finally, philosophy can also play a transformative role in our lives and affectionate institutions. Through critical reflection on the justification and coherence of the values in social practices and our own actions, we do not just pick out a deeper understanding of our culture and of who we are.