The American philosopher, Michael Sandel, for many years at Harvard University, held a very successful course, entitled What is Justice? In his introductory lecture, he warned the students against scepticism, which in philosophical terms argues that knowledge or rational beliefs are in the end impossible and we should just get on with life. Sandel's defence of philosophy is that "we live some answer to these (philosophical) questions every day". If we think of justice in its broadest concept and not just as a legal process, it is about the ethical behaviour of everyone, because it is about fairness both in the way we are treated and how we treat others. There will be a chance to explore What is Justice? further over a drink, as the poster indicates, on 23rd July, 7 pm at the Lower Red Lion, Fishpool Street, St Albans.
However, I want to return to the importance of philosophy - I have always regretted that there is no tradition in UK schools of teaching philosophy. I can hear the sceptics cry out, "Why?" Let me run through some of the major benefits that philosophy brings:
I will start with critical thinking, an aid to problem-solving. Philosophy trains us to think critically, analyse arguments, and solve problems. It encourages us to examine complex ideas and question assumptions. It enhances our ability to spot flaws in reasoning and this is valuable in all areas of life, from personal decision-making to professional judgments.
It helps us investigate the foundations of knowledge by exploring questions about what we can know and how we can know it - the key element of epistemology, the theory of knowledge, while teaching us the distinction between just opinion and justified beliefs.
A crucial benefit is how Philosophy provides ethical and moral frameworks for understanding and resolving behaviour. It enables us to reflect on what is right and wrong, just and unjust and provides a basis for guiding our actions. Aristotle grappled with the concept of the 'good life' by which he meant a life of virtue: making the 'right' moral decisions.
It can help us in trying to understand the world, by examining the nature of reality, existence, and the universe. This exploration broadens our perspective on the cosmos and our place in it, considering the fundamental nature of everything around us. It also tackles key questions, like the meaning of life, the nature of consciousness, and the possibility of free will.
Philosophy teaches the art of constructing clear and persuasive arguments through the ability to articulate ideas clearly, whether this is through the written word or in debate - important skills in any walk of life.
It also helps in personal growth and open-mindedness exposing us to a variety of viewpoints. Philosophy encourages self-reflection and the examination of beliefs and values. As Socrates said, "The unexamined life is not worth living".
Philosophical inquiry has driven societal progress by challenging existing givens through new ways of thinking. All our ideas about democracy, human rights, and justice have philosophical roots.
And, finally, philosophy has and does influence other fields of study including science, politics, art, and literature. Many scientific principles and political systems have philosophical underpinnings: for example, debates in physics about the nature of time and space. I would argue that in any society Philosophy should be seen as an essential discipline because it equips us with the tools to think deeply, reason effectively, and understand complex issues, contributing to both our own personal development and societal advancement.
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