I don't think I need to say much more about this idea than to refer to
it, buuut:
Yes, philosophy can solve some useful problems. Just like art can, in
principle, serve a useful purpose. But philosophy as it is commonly
done is better understood as part of a tradition of "analysis," into
which I might include literary critique, much of art history, and some
cultural analysis, none of which serve some higher purpose.
This form of analysis is the kind reserved only for those with plenty
of time on their hands. (Leisure classes?)
It is an art in and of itself, and done for much the same reasons.
You're a better person to the extent that you can appreciate and
discuss art and philosophy, or at least follow along in such
discussions. Things like this aren't useful for doing other things.
They are what life is worth living for.
If you don't appreciate philosophy, fine. I enjoy discussing it. I
think it can serve a useful turn or two, but that's really not the
point. You should get to know philosophy for the same reason you
should become familiar with good jazz. Maybe you won't like it, for
all of that. But you'll grow as a person if you do.
-Dan
-unless you love someone-
-nothing else makes any sense-
e.e. cummings
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