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Philosophy can be both an effect and cause of the character of various communities in which different systems flourish. Philosophy is a product of one or two factors: one, inherited religious and ethical conceptions; the other, the sort of investigation which may be called “scientific” (Pg. xiii). Philosophy can help us discover our way through cosmic loneliness. Ever since men became capable of free speculation, their actions, in innumerable important respects, have depended upon their theories as to the world and human life, as to what is good and what is evil. To understand an age or a nation, we must understand its philosophy, and to understand the philosophy, we must ourselves be, in some degree, philosophers (Pg. xiv).

I read over previous text we have studied to get a better understanding of what philosophy really is and what it stands for. I summarized a few concepts above. My interpretation of the text is a glimpse into the true nature of the human mind. We as humans on planet Earth are here to discover not only the universe itself but how we belong to it and how we are part of the collective cosmic energy. Different cultures, ancient and modern, have influenced our ways of theology today. In the last peripatetic discussion I had with a few classmates, we contemplated the idea of how religion plays a role concerning the development of philosophical thoughts and questions. It was interesting how we could discuss opposing theories and never end up coming up with a conclusion as to how and why we are all here. It felt as though we were talking in circles and kept getting closer to a what-seemed-like-realistic theory, but then we were bombarded with thoughts such as, well, where did the universe come from? Will it ever come to an end? What is the true meaning of life from the perspective of another human vs. from the perspective of the universe around us? There are so many answers to seek and so many questions to ask that bring you right back to the same place you started. So, with that being said, why study philosophy? Within the first few chapters of The History of Western Philosophy, I had discovered the reason for myself; to come to a better understanding and well-roundedness with the world around us. I think in order to create a better futuristic environment for the human race we must question everything and ponder these thoughts in order to thrive and survive as a species.