📌 Definition of Philosophy
Philosophy is a process of rational, critical, and universal thinking aimed at questioning the world, existence, values, and the human condition. It does not offer ready-made answers but invites us to think for ourselves, with depth and rigor.
🧭 The Origins of Philosophy
1. Historical origin
Philosophy first appeared in Ancient Greece in the 6th century BCE, with thinkers like Thales, Anaximander, and Heraclitus. It marked the transition from myth (religious or imaginary explanations) to logos (rational discourse). Supernatural explanations were replaced by rational attempts to understand nature and humanity.
2. Existential origin
Philosophy also arises from a sense of wonder at the world, doubt about what seems obvious, or crisis in the face of injustice, death, or the absurd. It emerges when people are no longer satisfied with ready-made answers and seek deeper meaning.
3. Universal origin
The ability to philosophize is inherent in all human beings. It is not limited to a specific culture or time. Whenever a person asks fundamental questions, they are engaging in philosophy.
🎯 The Specificity of Philosophical Reflection
What makes philosophy unique is first its rationality: it relies on reason and logical arguments, not on belief or personal impressions. It also seeks universality: philosophical answers are not just valid for one person or group but aim to reach truths that apply to all.
Philosophy also stands out for its critical spirit: it questions what seems obvious, rejects assumptions and prejudices. It engages in radical questioning, not only examining facts but also the very foundations of our knowledge (e.g. “What is good?”, “What is truth?”).
Finally, philosophy requires slowness and rigor: it takes time, method, and precision. It does not offer instant solutions, but a patient and careful search for meaning.
📚 Key Authors and Quotes
- Plato – Theaetetus:
📌 « Philosophy begins in wonder. »
→ Wonder is the starting point of philosophical thinking. - Aristotle – Metaphysics:
📌 « All men by nature desire to know. »
→ Philosophy responds to a natural desire for understanding. - Descartes – Discourse on the Method:
📌 « I think, therefore I am. »
→ Thought is the foundation of knowledge and certainty. - Kant – What is Enlightenment?:
📌 « Have the courage to use your own understanding. »
→ Philosophy is about thinking freely and independently.
🤔 Possible Essay Questions
- Why do humans philosophize?
- How does philosophy differ from religion, opinion, or science?
- Can we live without philosophy?
- Is philosophy useful? Necessary? Pointless?
✅ Key Takeaways
- Philosophy was born in Greece but is universal and human.
- It begins with wonder, doubt, or a crisis of meaning.
- It is defined by rational method, critical thinking, and a search for deeper meaning.
- To philosophize is to think for oneself in response to life’s biggest questions.