The Accessibility and Necessity of Philosophical Discussions

Thoughts and opinions, the core elements of philosophical discussions, engage every human being. They connect people in conversations, creating an innocent competition of individual thoughts. However, the accessibility and necessity of these discussions can be contentious, as some argue that philosophy is a realm only accessible to the educated few, while others see it as a basic human endeavor.

Is Everyone Capable of Philosophical Discussion?

The debate over whether anyone can engage in philosophical discussions stems from contrasting viewpoints. On one side, nearly everyone has a philosophy, just like they have opinions. Philosophical discussions can be seen as a natural extension of everyday thoughts and considerations. However, opposing views argue that not everyone is capable of engaging in such discussions.

A significant barrier to philosophical engagement is the emotional and mental fatigue it can impose on certain individuals. Just as a person who is overweight might find it exhausting to climb stairs, others might find reading and contemplating philosophical ideas too strenuous. Some simply prefer not to engage in these activities, much like someone who enjoys eating delicious food without wanting to learn how to cook.

The challenge often lies in the process and details. People who strive for quick, tangible results might view the intricate journey to understanding as unnecessary. Such individuals often settle for surface-level appreciation, engaging as consumers rather than active participants. Consumers, by nature, do not delve deeply into the process or foundational principles.

While some argue that these individuals cannot engage in philosophy or scholarly discussions, others contend that nearly everyone can benefit from philosophical thoughts, even if they are not formally trained. As each individual is born, their brain is naturally wired to think and form opinions – aspects of philosophy.

Formal vs. Informal Philosophical Engagement

Philosophical discussions can be both formal and informal. Personally, I believe that everyone has a philosophy, just like they have opinions and butts. However, not everyone is educated in formal philosophy. It’s important to recognize that a lack of formal education does not mean that one's personal philosophy is any less valuable or complex.

There are many instances where people mistakenly believe they are engaged in philosophical discussions, only to realize that they are making unsupported and biased arguments. To define a philosophical conversation clearly, it should ideally stem from documented philosophic discussions, focusing on important conceptual and critical matters. The more intrinsic, general, abstract, and universal the conversation, the more philosophical it can be, as long as it is within a logical and reasonable scope.

It's crucial to understand the nature of philosophical discussions to avoid mischaracterizing them. While the depth and breadth of philosophical discussions can be extensive, it's important to ensure that discussions are grounded in reason and logic. Not every conversation that delves into abstract or unconventional topics should be classified as philosophical, as this could lead to the trivialization of the discipline.

Conclusion

In conclusion, philosophical discussions are accessible and necessary for anyone who is willing to engage in deep and critical thinking. Although some may find it challenging, the concept of philosophy extends beyond formal education. Regardless of the form it takes, philosophical discussions can enrich our lives and broaden our understanding of the world.