Can Philosophy Solve Practical Problems?
Years ago, I earned a handsome six-figure salary teaching a philosophy course at UC Berkeley. I used that money not just for fun but to buy my first house—a practical choice that underscored how philosophy can indeed solve real-world problems.
More broadly, philosophy majors have some of the highest mid-career salaries among non-STEM fields, often surpassing many in the STEM arena as well. Their academic performance, especially on standardized tests like the GRE and LSAT, leads to lucrative career opportunities. These facts are not hidden; they just don't catch everyone's attention because the practical benefits of philosophy are often overlooked.
A Legend of Practical Philosophy: Thales
The ancient Greek philosopher Thales is a prime example of philosophy's practical applications. When asked how he managed to set up a near-monopoly on the olive industry within a couple of years, he proved his point without revealing his methods. This anecdote illustrates that philosophy can be both fascinating and incredibly practical.
However, the question remains: why don't we see millionaires among today's philosophers? The answer lies in our own biases. We tend to value abstract knowledge over tangible results. Philosophy is pursued primarily for its intellectual fulfillment and interest, rather than for its direct practical applications.
Philosophy: The Love of Wisdom
Philosophy, derived from the Greek words philo (love) and sophy (wisdom), is dedicated to the cultivation of wisdom. True wisdom, however, does not happen overnight. It requires a certain process:
Acquiring knowledge—preferably complete and accurate—on any subject of interest.
Building an understanding of that knowledge, enabling its application in various scenarios.
Applying knowledge ethically, which ultimately leads to wisdom.
A real-life example can illuminate this process. A young man decided to volunteer for military training to help defend his country during peacetime. His extensive knowledge about potential enemies led him to a startling realization: the real threat was not from poor villagers but from corrupt businessmen. With this wisdom, he opted to take action rather than follow traditional military roles. This led him not only to success in business but also to a safer nation, stopping at least four potential enemies.
A Call for Wisdom in Action
While philosophy often evokes abstract discussions and theories, its true power lies in its practical applications. Just as Thales and our hypothetical military volunteer showed, philosophy can enhance one's ability to make informed decisions and take effective action that benefits society. It's not just about loving wisdom; it's about using that wisdom to solve real-world problems.
So, the next time you ponder the abstract, remember: the wisdom gained from philosophy can indeed change the world in tangible ways, even if those changes are not always immediate or visible.