Philosophy Now Forum

Onora O’Neill argues for the value of philosophical research.

http://philosophynow.org/issues/95/Inte ... _The_World

Philosophy Now wrote:Onora O’Neill argues for the value of philosophical research.

http://philosophynow.org/issues/95/Inte ... _The_World

Philosophy is valuable to give insight to the human condition for wiser decision making in light of what humanity is. Philosophy students, even those who are forced to choose an introduction philosophy routinely thank the professor for the insights to coping and decision making. the down side is that American society has thrown away any 'common sense' to dictate by 'law' which in turn destroys the value of philosophers who are able to make better judgments for having clarified the difference between what they 'do' know, and what they do not. A philosopher will generally have a better defined moral structure for having the insight to themselves to make determinations of 'good' based on 'what is most important' which unfortunately does not have a global consensus as to the order of importance in which 'good' should be measured. Is it family? Is it wealth/economy? Is it the planet? Is it balance?

I can argue balance is most important: balance for self, balance for earth, balance for economy, but I doubt I will find much agreement.

A good research project is to assess two societies with equal resources and opportunities, and teach one of them philosophical reasoning: and let the other follow traditional paths without that teaching. How do you measure the well-being? Who lives longer? Who has less stress? Who has the most wealth? Who is most likeable or pleasant?

It is a good discussion. But as such discussions go, until an agreement can be found, the argument will be stale, producing nothing, and philosophy itself will only hold a value to an individual that personally values it. Everyone has a philosophy; some are just better defined than others. Is having a better defined philosophy better than not? I say yes. Because fools with power are dangerous, but then, who is beyond foolishness?

I really like your posts. Intelligent, insightful, and respectful.



I think we may have a legitimate, modern philosopher amongst us.




Well done.



Thank you for posting with us.







.