Where to Begin Your Journey in Philosophy: Insights for Beginners
Embarking on the journey of studying philosophy can be both exciting and challenging. As you consider your path, there are several recommendations and insights that can guide you towards a fulfilling and enlightening experience.
Understanding the History of Philosophy
For beginners, I highly recommend beginning with the history of philosophy. This can serve as an introduction to the various schools of thought that have emerged throughout history. Even if a particular school claims to offer unique insights, it is essential to explore the broader context in which these ideas arose.
By reading the history of philosophy, you can gain a foundational understanding of the major philosophic traditions and thinkers. This knowledge will help you recognize the different approaches and methodologies used by various schools, making it easier to narrow down to the specific areas that interest you.
Identifying Your Motivations and Skills
Before diving into specific areas of philosophy, it is crucial to consider your motivations for studying the subject. Are you interested in acquiring a deep understanding of the world and the human condition? Or are you driven by a desire to appear intelligent or authoritative?
The essential skill in philosophy is clear thinking. This involves recognizing logically valid arguments and identifying logical fallacies. Without mastering this skill, your study of philosophy may include wasted time and effort. On the other hand, if your talent lies in memorization, you may find it appealing to skip the logical foundation and focus solely on recalling information, which can be counterproductive.
To illustrate this point, let’s consider the case of Albert Einstein. His theory of relativity began with a sound definition of time. If you fail to recognize the ad hoc fallacy in his argument, you might incorrectly conclude that time is an illusion, whereas in reality, it is his definition that is an illusion. The world’s failure to recognize this is a prime example of how the tacit assumptions underlying our knowledge can lead to significant errors.
Therefore, it is crucial to start your exploration of philosophy with an understanding of logic. If you excel in this area, continue your study of philosophy. If not, it’s important to avoid wasting time on aspects of philosophy that lie outside your natural talents.
Exploring Philosophy Through Personal Experience
For me, philosophy is not just about logical argumentation; it is also about sense making and sensibility. Over the past twenty years, I have written dozens of essays, much of it on my blog KBHR 570. My approach is to apply philosophical concepts to real-world issues, making it accessible to non-academics.
Recently, I have been posting essays on three key topics: Scientism, Atheism, and Exploring Mystical Phenomena. I plan to continue this series, posting two essays a week for the next eight weeks. This ongoing exploration aims to provide an introduction to the crucial philosophic issues of our time.
Conclusion: A Constructive Approach to Philosophy
Studying philosophy is a rewarding journey that requires clear thinking, logical reasoning, and a deep sense-making ability. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced thinker, starting with the history of philosophy and identifying your skills and motivations will help you navigate this vast and complex subject. By approaching philosophy with a constructive and thoughtful mindset, you can unlock the wisdom and insights that have shaped human thought for centuries.