Philosophy Class 1A

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Chapter 1: What is Philosophy?

Thinking Philosophically About Life

It is systematic, critical, reflection of the way which we judge, live and act with the pursuit of wisdom.

Philosophy as the "mother of all disciplines"

The pursuit of wisdom rather than information, wisdom as the ability to use and apply said information.

In true philosophy each generation should examine previous philosophers and try and revise or make better those thoughts and ideas.

Philosophy sometimes referred to as a meta-discipline..."a higher discipline sitting above or giving meanings to other disciplines"

A. Origins

1. The impulse toward philosophy comes form the kinds of why questions that children often ask.

2. It comes forrm the desire for synthesis and integration

B.

Activity

1. DOin philosiphy requires the activity of constant questiong and sidcussing beliefs with others

C. Conflict

1. Philsophy is the dynamic-it requires going back and forth eto abalyze the mreits f opposing positions

D.

Ultimate Aim

1. Lofty goals, includeing liberty of mind, freedom from prejudice and well being of the soul.

The Process of Critical Thinking

A. Initial Point of View

1.Must start with an inital position on an issue

B. Defining Point of View

1. Definition of the teerms used in your statement of your point of view is crucial-we need to make our meaning precise

C. Examples for Point of View

1. Examples to illustrate a point of view help explain our views for our readers

D. Origin of Point of View

1. Must always ask about the history of a point of view: How did I come to have this point of view?

E. Assumptions

1. Unstated beliefs often underlie stated points of view; we should check our position for assumpitions and decide whether or not they are fair assumptions to expect others to share

F. Reason, Evidence, Arguments for Point of View

1. Now we can go on to supporting our point of view through reasons and evidence

G. Other Points of View

1. Must always present and analyze the points of view of other thinkers who disagree with us on a matter

2. Once we present the point of view fairly, we can respond to it

H. Conclusion, Decision, Solution, Prediciton

1. These are why we argue our points of view-to enable us to recommend a conclusion or solution, or to enable us to make a prediction or decision

I. COnsequences

1. We should spell out what is likely to happen if people choose to adopt our conclusions

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