(Posted for Skyler*)
In our group we first talked about the reading that we had in the Philosophy bites book. We talked about our favorite quotes and thought it was a little odd that some people didn't even make an attempt at stating what they thought philosophy was. I found that the reading was a little difficult to get through because of the numerous quotes and some others in our group agreed. It was even stated that "Philosophy is a lot like alcohol- it's best in moderation", which we all agreed with and laughed about.
The quote that philosophy is "thinking about thinking" was well liked in the group, because it was clear. We went on to talk about Socrates and how he was so intelligent and revered because he admitted that he did not know everything; in fact he believed he didn't know anything. We also mentioned Buddha and that in the Buddhist faith they believe that if you are happy Buddha is happy. It was nice to experience different peoples knowledge and perspectives on life and philosophy in general.
Our group touched on numerous different subjects including philosophy (of course), bad weather which inherently goes along with bad driving, and how alcohol affects performance in numerous different sports. It was a well rounded discussion that was highly informative and enjoyable to be a part of.
(*Group 14 may need to rely on it's other author to post, 'til we figger out what's blocking Skyler. If anybody has a guess, please let her & us know. We really need an IT expert or two or three...)
For the most part that's what we covered. We also talked about how philosophy is critical thinking and that's why it works so well with both science and religion. Socrates was brought up because he never stopped in his pursuit of knowledge. We also mentioned that expanding our knowledge is part of human nature. So in a way, we are all philosophers.
ReplyDeleteDave I really like the fact that you added that last part in there about everyone being a philosopher. Personally I feel that is where I stand when discussing philosophy. As a rather young adult, 19 years old, I often find myself lost in deep thought, always striving to gain more knowledge. Whether or not that falls under any given philosopher's definition of philosophy, to me it is. I often think about numerous complex ideas, and more often than not I go and research these topics, and I always learn something new. So back tracking, in my opinion that statement that everyone is a philosopher, holds true, whether that person thinks they are conducting in philosophy or not.
ReplyDeleteAs human beings we try to explain the unknown, and gather as much information as possible. Therefore in my eyes everyone's a philosopher in their own right.
On another note regarding the discussion itself, I think it went very well, especially taking in account that it was really the first time everyone met each other. I feel that as soon as everyone starts to warm up, our discussions will become very enjoyable, and we will take a lot out of them.
Looking forward to discussion tomorrow. Michael
Socrates didn't believe he was the wisest because he felt he didn't know much about anything. Alcohol makes you a better golfer, period. When it snows in Tennessee people forget how to drive, but its not like they really could anyways. Also, if your happy with yourself, then Buddha is happy with you.
ReplyDeleteWe talked about the difference between knowledge and wisdom in philosophy, and stated that the knowledge is something we learn when we get the answers to our ideas we have, and the wisdom is were we teach and provide to others about the knowledge we know.
ReplyDeleteI find that we as people always find ourselves wanting to know answers to our ideas but never want to listen to anything until we hear what we think is right. Therefore, I feel philosophy is more of understanding the studies of ideas and thoughts we have.
I like listening and hearing other people's thoughts about philosophy. I enjoyed the group discussions.
Socrates was a big hit in our group. I liked our side conversation as well though and the different perspectives that the group gave. Excited to discuss Plato :)
ReplyDeleteI feel like our philosophy discussion was very great and deep with just enough discussion about alcohol.
ReplyDeleteWe all share a common belief. By being a floater I was allowed to view others points other than my group. I say if one is serious about philosophy and it's compared to alcohol, let's sip slow and not over indulge on the knowledge of thinking.
ReplyDeleteTimothy Springer