All the great leaders and personalities have had bouts with some concepts of philosophy throughout their lifetime. From Bruce Lee to Matthew McConoughey, there is a philosopher inside everyone trying to make sense of this miserable existence we call life. Although, what is the importance of philosophy in life if everything is meant to end?
Although, nihilists would have you believe that everything is meaningless, there is some meaning to it, especially if you decide to give meaning to it. You see, our perception of the world shapes our reality, so the way you think and perceive the world will shape how you feel about it.
That is where philosophy can help you out a ton to better your understanding of your own perception and thought process. Be advised, there are concepts which can rip away your humanity while others will revitalize it. You can differentiate those distinctions based on your understanding of philosophical practices. For now, let’s see why any philosophical practice is important in real life.
What Is The Importance Of Philosophy In Life? A Simple Answer
Philosophy is important in life because it allows us to think critically, understand fellow humans and their motivations better, make ethical decisions and most importantly, it helps us find purpose and meaning.
For students, it encourages curiosity and critical thinking while for adults, it is important to gain new perspectives in life and not fall into nihilistic point of views (nihilism encourages the idea that everything is meaningless). Philosophy is a framework for answering all the important questions one has in life.
Aside from critical thinking, there are a variety of reasons philosophy is important in human life and why one must dabble into it.
Reasons Why You Should Study Philosophy
If you are hesitating to get into philosophy, there are multiple reasons why you should not. Philosophy will not only make you smarter among your peers but it will also better your vocabulary and encourage new ideas. Here are some reasons why you should study philosophy.
It Helps You Navigate Life’s Big Questions
What is the meaning of life? Is there a god? What is the need for morality? What constitutes a good life? What is justice? You can answer all of these major questions just by learning about the various branches of philosophy. The fun part is there is no concrete answer to these questions as every philosopher has their own definition.
You can compare your answers with your fellow philosophers and see what their thought processes are. This is a faster way of getting to know your peers than any other bonding activity.
Helps Promote Lifelong Learning And Fosters Curiosity
If you are a philosopher, you are bound to keep learning more and more and your curiosity will know no bounds. As you delve deep into some concepts, your curiosity about history, ethics, science and study of morality will increase. By taking part in philosophy, you will learn important concepts like stoicism, empiricism, rationalism and also see its effects on art and beauty.
Helps You Understand Morality And Ethics Better
There is morality in everything. No decision is completely black or white nowadays and the study of philosophy lets you navigate that decision better. Morality stems from Ethics which is the study of right or wrong. Studying philosophy and learning more about the thought processes of your fellow man can help you navigate those better.
By taking part in ethical studies, we can develop values and principles that enforce our behavior and act with integrity.
Enhances Communication And Argumentation Skills
Communication is the best skill one can master to be successful in life and argumentation takes second fiddle to that. By reading up on philosophy and finding ways to articulate your ideas better, you will be able to become someone who takes no effort communicating and defending ideas that you support.
You see, philosophy is inherently dialogical. It involves articulating ideas, engaging in debates, and defending positions with clarity and rigor. By learning the art of philosophy, you will be able to better word your thoughts to people.
Start Studying
Studying philosophy can change your life and make you self aware enough to question what everything around you is. You will be much smarter and in touch with how you feel when you get to know how the human brain works.
If you are interested in more philosophy, check out the Philosophy section of The Introverted Bubble.