What is Philosophy?

<p>Act "better?" More like be somewhat informed. I didn't point out anybody in particular; some people on the thread seem to have a decent idea about what philosophy is, whereas others- not so much.</p>

<p>Care to name names?</p>

<p>You, by providing a link to the wikipedia article, were probably the most helpful poster in the thread, as it's a great start to learning what philosophy is. The stanford encyclopedia of philosophy is also a great free online resource. Additionally, you say you've been in a phil course for a while, so you have some actual experience. Many who talk about what philosophy is haven't read even a few books or taken any course on philosophy. Beyond naming you as being helpful by posting the link to wikipedia, I see no reasons to name any names and be rude, violate the tos, and/or cause flame wars.</p>

<p>You're so modest. I envy you.</p>

<p>"what is philosophy"?</p>

<p>One definition suggests it is "Investigation of the nature, causes, or principles of reality, knowledge, or values, based on logical reasoning rather than empirical methods." </p>

<p>However in reality Philosophy was (among other things) invented to give Philosophy professors jobs at various colleges and universities throughout the United States (generally Yale Ph D's) - so they can be overpaid for 30 years talking about "why is is" and other important nonsensical topics and figure out more inventive ways to hide from (obnoxiously energetic) students during "office hours"</p>

<p>That's quite the cynical view :)</p>

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I love when people who have no idea about what philosophy is tell others what they think philosophy is.

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I love it when people try and act "better" by pointing out people who supposedly have no idea about what philosophy is and tell others what they think philosophy is...

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Act "better?" More like be somewhat informed. I didn't point out anybody in particular; some people on the thread seem to have a decent idea about what philosophy is, whereas others- not so much.

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<p>Yep, it's a philisophical argument about philosophy. Good example guys</p>