Why Studying Philosophy Can Be Liberating Rather Than Depressing

Many students find the study of philosophy, particularly areas such as determinism, moral theories, and feminist ethics, to be mentally taxing and even depressing. It seems as though these topics are more closely aligned with theology or social studies. They often require deep exploration and a willingness to question the fundamental aspects of how we understand the world and ourselves. However, these challenges are not necessarily negatives but can be seen as opportunities for profound personal and intellectual growth.

Philosophy Offers a Unique View of the World

Philosophy, at its core, is about investigating and clarifying questions of how things really are. This quest is not meant to provide comfort but to challenge our assumptions and broaden our understanding. It's a pursuit that delves into the complexities of language, reason, and existence, offering a unique perspective that can be both enlightening and confronting.

Is Certainty Really Comforting?

Consider a scenario where you suspect that someone is keeping the truth from you to spare your feelings. For example, your doctor has given you a clean bill of health, but you have reason to believe they might be lying. On the other hand, your partner is acting self-consciously because they've gambled away all your savings. Is it better to hear the truth, however inconvenient or painful it might be, or to remain in blissful ignorance? In general, people often prefer the truth over false security.

The Value of Doubt and Uncertainty

Philosophy, however, often challenges our most basic common-sense assumptions and forces us to question them. This can be unsettling but also liberating. Perhaps you have discovered philosophical doubt and come to realize that our most basic common-sense assumptions about how the world works might not be as solid as we think. Many of us are scarcely capable of sincerely doubting that the objects around us are really there, or that the people around us have minds of their own. This fundamental aspect of our existence is, as David Hume suggested, taken for granted in our day-to-day lives and only seriously questioned in the context of philosophy.

The Lack of Consensus in Philosophy

Another aspect of philosophy that can be intimidating is the lack of consensus among philosophers on the foundations of morality. Many might think that such a uniquely human phenomenon should be comprehensible to humans, especially the very smartest ones. However, this is not the case. The diversity of opinions and theories in the field of ethics can be overwhelming, but it also offers a rich tapestry of perspectives that can greatly enhance our understanding of moral issues.

A Potentially Liberating Experience

If philosophy makes you doubt everything you ever thought you knew or took for granted, it can be a potentially liberating experience. Certainty is often a sign of immaturity and can be detrimental. Embracing uncertainty, however, suggests a depth of intellectual and personal maturity. It requires character and a willingness to explore the unknown. This process of questioning and re-evaluating our beliefs can lead to profound personal growth and a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us.

So, while the study of philosophy can be challenging and even daunting at times, it offers a unique and valuable perspective. It can be a source of intellectual and personal growth rather than a cause for depression. As J.S. Mill once said, it is better to be a Socrates dissatisfied than a pig satisfied. By embracing the inquiry and challenges of philosophy, we can uncover new perspectives and insights that enrich our lives.