Lecture Notes No. 1

THE NATURE OF PHILOSOPHICAL INQUIRY

Definitions of Philosophy

• A combination of two Greek words, philia (which means love) and sophia (which means wisdom) – love of wisdom
• The science of beings in their ultimate reasons, causes and principles acquired through the aid of reason alone
• A search for meaning – more than just seeking or looking

Every person is a philosopher by default, not by choice.

To achieve certainty, one must seek the guidance of others who have searched before him; he needs to listen to those who have found some answers.

The Need for Philosophical Inquiry

Through philosophy, man seeks answers to the following perennial questions:

• Why are we here? What is the meaning of life? What kind of being am I?
• What is wisdom? What is the good life? How do I know that I am free?
• Does God exist? How can I be certain that my beliefs have authority?

In modern times, philosophy is continually utilized as

• a method of inquiry
• an instrument for the solution of the global problems facing mankind

Logic as a Method of Philosophical Inquiry

Inquiry – method of experimental intelligence (John Dewey)

Purpose of inquiry – to change the situation

• to transform the indeterminate situation (problematic situation) into a determinate situation where the problem is solved
• to lead from the indeterminate situation to the solved determinate situation

Experiences – the interactive process by which the human self is in dynamic relation with other persons