It is important to note that philosophy is a framework under which even ordinary knowledge and information are questioned through criticism based on a strictly determined set of principles and rules. In other words, philosophy address the fundamental aspects of the universe and existence itself with no room for inarticulate assumptions. Therefore, philosophy is a critical discussion, methodology, actual reality, nature of things, and wisdom with practical implications.
Firstly, it should be noted that philosophy is a prime manifestation of a critical discussion, where no item, thing, or entity is taken for granted or excluded from the debate. Philosophy can face the test of critical discussion, which means that it alone supersedes all other notions of categories of wisdom since only it can possess a distinct and clear set of principles and ideas when discussing the topics of interest (Plato). Thus, philosophy is the truest form of critical analysis and discussion.
Secondly, philosophy is a methodology or framework of thinking and criticizing the surrounding world and its contents and human selflessness and being. Plato refers to the method as dialectic, emphasizing the fact that philosophy is catalyzed through a clear set of approaches to a question at hand (Plato). Since philosophy criticizes everything and addresses the most fundamental concepts, it cannot rely on inarticulate assumptions, which is why it builds a sound methodology from the bottom-up.
Thirdly, philosophy is the actual reality of things and existence because it alone questions and focuses based on fact. Although physics’ interest might involve subatomic particles and quantum realities, the philosophy goes even deeper regarding posing abstract questions and has no physical manifestation. In other words, philosophy represents the truest form of reality since it is only bound by human imagination, intellect, and comprehension.
Fourthly, it is essential to note the notion that philosophy is reflective of the nature of things rather than their contents and functions. Other fields of human wisdom might be able to answer the questions of how and what, but only philosophy asks the question of why seeking knowledge and insight into the meaning and purpose of things and ideas. Therefore, philosophy explores the most important question of all: the reason behind concepts.
Fifthly, philosophy is collective human wisdom, which can have practical purposes. It enlightens people’s minds and suggests the wisest advice on how people should live their lives. Since philosophy does not take anything for granted and question it meticulously, it can come to the most objective and reasonable conclusions, which can be further translated into recommendations and understandings of how an individual should implement the gained insight in his or her life to achieve fulfillment and happiness.
In conclusion, philosophy is a critical discussion, methodology, actual reality, nature of things, and wisdom with practical implications. It is the truest form of critical discussion, which does not make any inarticulate assumptions but creates a core methodological framework for addressing concepts and ideas. It also seeks to understand the true aspect of reality, which is why it can address the nature of things by asking the question of why to derive the purpose. Lastly, philosophy is a source of wisdom and enlightenment for humanity since its findings can be translated into an ordinary life through suggestions, recommendations, and insights.
Reference
Plato. (399 B.C.E.). Apology.