Explain the above philosophers’ philosophical methods. (That is,
explain their approach to doing philosophy.)
• Apply the two methods to a particular problem or situation. Explain at least one important difference in how the two methods would address the problem.
• Is one of the philosophical methods a better guide for you? Why or why not?
What does Russell think is the chief value of philosophy? Why does
Russell think doing philosophy is incompatible with his description of “the practical man”?
Full Answer Section
Plato: Plato's philosophical method was known as the dialectic. The dialectic involved a dialogue between two or more people, in which they would each present their arguments and then attempt to refute the arguments of the other. Plato believed that the dialectic was the best way to achieve true knowledge, as it forced people to think critically about their own beliefs and to consider alternative perspectives.
Aristotle: Aristotle's philosophical method was known as the peripatetic method. The peripatetic method involved walking and talking with students, while discussing philosophical problems. Aristotle believed that the best way to learn philosophy was through a process of active engagement and discussion.
Descartes: Descartes's philosophical method was known as methodical doubt. Descartes doubted everything that he could possibly doubt, in order to find a foundation for knowledge that was absolutely certain. He eventually concluded that the only thing that he could not doubt was his own existence, as he was the one doing the doubting.
Kant: Kant's philosophical method was known as transcendental idealism. Transcendental idealism involved arguing that the way we experience the world is not the way the world actually is, but is instead a product of our own minds. Kant believed that this was the best way to explain how we can have knowledge of things that we cannot experience directly, such as God and the soul.
Hegel: Hegel's philosophical method was known as dialectics. Dialectics involved a process of thesis, antithesis, and synthesis. The thesis is a statement of a position, the antithesis is a statement of the opposite position, and the synthesis is a new statement that reconciles the thesis and antithesis. Hegel believed that this was the best way to achieve truth, as it involved a process of constant questioning and revision.
Sample Answer
Socrates: Socrates's philosophical method was known as the Socratic method, or the elenchus. The elenchus involved a series of questions and answers designed to lead the interlocutor to realize the inconsistencies in their own beliefs. Socrates believed that the only way to achieve true knowledge was through a process of self-examination and critical thinking.