The Justification of Teaching Philosophy: Nurturing Wisdom and Critical Thinking

Teaching philosophy is often questioned for its utility, but it is justified primarily for its role in facilitating deeper understanding and critical thinking. As Chet Hawkins rightly suggests, teaching philosophy enhances learning by encouraging students to question and explore fundamental concepts and questions. However, the unique nature of philosophy requires a nuanced approach compared to other subjects like history, chemistry, or English, which can be taught more factually.

Philosophy: Beyond Facts

Philosophy is a discipline rooted in questioning and exploring fundamental issues rather than in imparting specific facts. When we teach subjects like history, chemistry, or literature, we aim to communicate established knowledge. For instance, we can state that the electron configuration of hydrogen is -1 or that Shakespeare’s Macbeth is about a power-hungry occupation and its consequences. However, these are concrete, verifiable facts. Contrastingly, philosophy deals with deeper, more personal, and often abstract questions. The statement that Plato thought knowledge is justified true belief can be true, but it does not demonstrate that this belief itself is justified. Instead, it invites us to question, explore, and form our own understanding of what knowledge truly means.

Philosophy as a Process

While it is accurate to describe philosophy as 'love of wisdom' (or phileo-sophia), it is not just a collection of facts or knowledge. Philosophy is more akin to a set of methodologies and questions that guide our inquiry and exploration. It provides the tools to critically analyze, question, and even reframe our understanding of the world. Just as a mathematician uses logical reasoning to solve a problem, a philosopher uses critical thinking to navigate the complexities of ethical, epistemological, and metaphysical questions.

Indispensability of Philosophy

The importance of philosophy is underscored by its relevance to the most fundamental aspects of human existence. We all grapple with questions such as: What happens after we die? How should we live our lives? How should we organize society? These questions form the bedrock of philosophical inquiry. The inability to avoid these queries suggests that philosophy is not merely a luxury, but an essential part of human consciousness. If these questions naturally arise in our minds, teaching philosophy helps us to approach them constructively and thoughtfully.

The Output of Philosophy Education

The value of philosophy lies not just in the content learned but in the skills and perspectives gained. A student of philosophy develops the ability to think critically, to argue coherently, and to engage in deep, meaningful dialogue. These skills are invaluable in any field and are not easily acquired through other means. The teaching of philosophy should aim to equip students with the tools to investigate these questions and to form reasoned and well-supported arguments. This process of inquiry and discourse is not only intellectually enriching but also essential for making informed decisions in a complex and ever-changing world.

Concluding Thoughts

Philosophy is more than just a discipline; it is a fundamental aspect of human inquiry and wisdom. While it cannot be taught in the same way as history, chemistry, or literature, its importance is undeniable. Whether it is through the recognition of crimes, the pursuit of wisdom, or the allocation of attention, philosophy plays a crucial role in shaping our understanding of the world and our place in it. Therefore, the justification for teaching philosophy is to empower our students to engage in the continuous pursuit of wisdom and to make informed decisions based on thoughtful inquiry.