What sorts of persons would disdain philosophy and think those who engage in philosophy are chasing the wind?

Question

I would think philosophy is of interest to any thinking person, but lately I am in the company of those who feel that philosophy is a waste of time. Perhaps they do not see the value in philsophizing if the end isn't lucrative? What causes such disdain for those who are drawn to contemplate? One could easily hold a similar disdain for those who don't appreciate philosophy.

Answer 1

I see your problem.

"philosophy is of interest to any thinking person"

It actually is.

You're assuming that's everyone, and you are mistaken.

Also, I'm a thinking person, and I am interested in philosophy, but that doesn't mean I'm going to let you talk about it non-stop at a cocktail party. Philosophy is interesting, but perhaps you are not. Or perhaps I would just rather have another drink and talk about baseball.

See, the whole objective of philosophy is to make sense out of the universe. Some people have already done that for themselves, and some have given up. Sports is always changing, and therefore a much more interesting subject at a party.

Answer 2

Hmmm... that's a very well-put but difficult question to answer.

People have such different views of the world; it's hard to categorize them. Despite that, philosophers seem to be optimists by nature since they feel that they can apply certain principles or beliefs to try and make a better life or have better morals. Your friends who have been discouraging you from this are probably cynics or pessimists.

And sure, you can definitely call them a bunch of myopic dead heads for being so narrowminded. There's nothing wrong in contemplating the meaning of life etc.

But they're entitled to their opinion too. But I can understand when there doesn't seem to be anyone there to share your deep thoughts and feelings with; I try to find a friend or peer who's interested in somewhat the same thing and talk to them.

Forget those guys who don't appreciate your thoughts. Who are they to say that you're chasing the wind? It's all just opinion. No one can really discredit you.

Answer 3

I would say religious folk who are way into their religion and are very closed minded are those who dislike philosophy. Of course this isnt everybody (Im Catholic and go to church every sunday but i am open minded and have a big thirst for knowledge). Philosophy I believe, is a wonderful subject to study and to practice. It's searching for truth and it makes one think very deeply and question everything around them. I love philosophy. But not everyone can think the same way. That's the beauty of diversity- not everyone believes the same.

Answer 4

Anyone who seeks truth is a philosopher, but that doesen't mean you can get anywhere with it. A philosophy is more of an idea, and since there isn't many who would pay for the service of a philosopher, its viewed as more of an outlandish path to follow.

Answer 5

They don't appreciate the essence of the education system. Ph.D. means doctor of philosophy. Those degree holders have studied the philosophy of their particular disciplines. All areas of knowledge have a guiding philosophy and they are not hot air.

Answer 6

people who do not like to think.

disdain is an easier state of mind to achieve than serious thought and contemplation

that said, information man is right about one thing---philosophy is more useful as a hobby than as a career path

Answer 7

i would think that a person who does not like philosophy likes to be occupied with his/her everyday things and doesn't like to have time to catch up and think about..well...everything.
philosophical people love to talk and get lost in our own beliefs and those of others. for some people, thats just too complicated and too time or energy absorbing.

Answer 8

that is just another philosopher, i guess

Answer 9

normal people.