Critical Analysis Of Bertrand Russell's The Philosophy Of Philosophy

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Bertrand Russell is a very influential writer within the realm of philosophy. His specific work titled, The Problems of Philosophy discusses the many things that he believes is wrong with the way people think, act towards, treat, and study philosophy as a whole. The one specific essay focused on was titled The Value of Philosophy in chapter xv. This essay focused on why he believes that philosophy was worth studying and why he believes that those who don’t see his vision are wrong and at a disadvantage. More specifically he addresses the “practical man”, which he defines specifically as “one who recognizes only material needs, who realizes that men must have food for the body, but is oblivious of the necessity of providing food for the mind” …show more content…

Russell states that this is an important reason to understand as one studies philosophy and learns how to think on their own. This important reason lies much deeper than philosophy itself. Russell states that “the value of philosophy is, in fact, to be sought largely in its very uncertainty” (Russel 156). This seems contradictive at its surface as Russell explains that philosophy itself is very important to study but, with deeper analysis, it make much more sense. He emphasizes throughout the essay that philosophy develops one’s mind and changes the way they think. Rather than accepting popular opinion, he stresses that thinking deeply about everything in life can only benefit each person. The beauty of philosophy is that it contains no sure answer, which challenges one to think more intellectually and deeper about everything in …show more content…

Russell provides a few good arguments that would make people consider looking into philosophy, who would otherwise not think about it. He explains that thinking like the “practical man” could lead to one becoming dogmatic rather than thinking deeply and coming to one’s own conclusions. He also addresses the importance of studying philosophy as one would study natural sciences. Russell’s reasons for studying philosophy involve the importance of philosophy itself, as well as reasons for studying which will benefit one much deeper than just philosophy. His evidence is too compelling to argue in my eyes, which is why I agree with his reasons for studying

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