The Art and Process of Philosophical Research

Philosophical research is a complex and multifaceted endeavor that involves refining analyses, developing and advancing interpretations, and exploring alternative perspectives. This process aims to promote new understanding and advocate for novel modes of assessment.

A Personal Account of Philosophical Research

During my Masters, I embarked on a journey to explore philosophical concepts, critique existing theories, and propose new ideas. However, the road was not always smooth. I submitted my work to my supervisor, Richard Swinburne, who always provided precise objections that I had to address. My first attempt did not meet his standards, and he expressed concern that I might not be able to produce a satisfactory submission. I felt depressed and unmotivated until the early hours of the morning, when inspiration struck after a walk along the Isis. Inspired by the clarity that dawned on me, I wrote and submitted my work, which was finally deemed suitable for submission.

Richard Swinburne's rigorous critiques were invaluable. Through his mentoring, I learned to view my work critically, anticipating and overcoming potential objections. Like Swinburne, I internalized the process of refining my thoughts and arguments, ensuring that my work was robust and well-thought-out.

Attending Seminars with Top Philosophers

Attending seminars by renowned philosophers such as Michael Dummett and Derek Parfit offered invaluable insights into the ongoing internal dialogue that characterizes philosophical research. Both seminars displayed a continuous and dynamic critique of one's own work. Dummett often spoke to himself in a passionate manner, while Parfit calmly revised and improved his drafts. Despite their differing styles, both philosophers exemplified the importance of self-criticism in philosophical research.

The Philosophy of Self-Criticism

The process of philosophical research is inherently self-reflexive. Both Dummett and Parfit demonstrated how philosophers constantly evaluate and refine their thoughts. They are like characters staring out the window on a gloomy day, ruminating and continually questioning their ideas. This relentless self-criticism is a cornerstone of the philosophical method and ensures the robustness and integrity of the work produced.

Embracing Critical Thinking

Philosophical research is not merely about regurgitating existing knowledge but is an exercise in critical thinking and self-refinement. By engaging in rigorous debate and self-assessment, philosophers can arrive at more nuanced and refined interpretations of complex ideas.

Benefits of Critical Thinking

Critical thinking has several benefits in philosophical research:

It promotes a deeper understanding of the subject matter by questioning existing assumptions and challenging them.

It enhances the quality of arguments by identifying and addressing potential weaknesses.

It fosters innovation by encouraging the generation of new ideas and perspectives.

Conclusion

Philosophical research is a dynamic and iterative process that involves refining, questioning, and improving one's ideas. Through rigorous academic standards and continuous self-refinement, philosophers can contribute to a richer and more comprehensive understanding of complex concepts and theories.