Can any individual be a philosopher?

Answer 1

The difference between thoughts of general understanding of life from a personal point-of-view, or specific thoughts of about a very personal life and thoughts established as philosophical through recognition by common people is that of the audience – the people who benefit from those thoughts.

For instance, I have my own personal philosophy, and like myself, I guess, all people have their own unique ways of looking at things in their lives, and dealing with intricate situations that come their way, but I am not recognised as a philosopher, and like myself, many other people do not claim to be philosophers either.

The fact is that I AM a philosopher but within a narrow circle of my personal affairs. I am myself a permanent audience of my personal philosophy.

But if somehow I am able to break this narrow circle, this limited field of view, if I am able to reach out to people in a collective sense, and if my thoughts start to have a universal appeal and application, then I stand a chance to be considered as a person of unique but universal insightfulness about things that concerns to all, or at least many.

Philosophy in its universal sense is not a matter of being smart or clever in ones own right; it is not a matter of self-proclamation. Philosophy involves debate about things concerning human nature, and general human condition in a wider context of things in existence. In this regard the situation is quite contrary to what it apparently might seem when one has only personal matters in view. It is possible that philosophy of a personal brought no happiness into his or her life but it did revolutionise and benefit the thoughts of masses. The audience of philosophy is the heart, mind and the soul of mankind.

Answer 2

A very tricky question! It could be argued everyone has a philosophy in so far as we have ideas, concepts and beliefs that form our respective world views. And however much those ideas, concepts and beliefs are spoonfed, embedded or indoctrinated, each person's view will still be unique. So, it could be said, each person has a functioning philosophy, no matter how narrow or shallow or bizarre.

Does that make every one a philosopher? I would say no. It is one thing to have a philosophy, another to be a philosopher. I would argue a philosopher is one who strives to expound, explain and examine elements of humanity, society or life itself. I would also argue the philosophy has to have (at least) some apparent coherence and a minimal amount of internal logic. Of course, this criteria still leaves the door open to almost anyone; possibly the final 'qualification' is for others to give serious consideration to your thoughts and to incorporate at least some of your viewpoints into their own philosophy. Unfortunately, that might include bullies, salesmen, siblings, politicians, clergy, sports people, actors or rock stars - which might go some way to explaining why the society is as it is.

It might be possible, therefore, for any individual to become a 'philosopher'. Whether the philosophy is worthwhile is another matter entirely.

Answer 3

Of course, that is what philosophy is about, thinking for yourself.

Mind you it does help the thought process if you are aware of the thinking of others.

The same old questions seem to be forever haunting humans......

Answer 4

Yes, if you have a philosophy.





Mike10613