Kisscafe

Philosophy itself is defined as a love for knowledge. It is a vague definition indeed, which would almost beg for argument. Thankfully, argument it the very basis for philosophy.

The debate and the, shall we say, uncooperation of two minds is often more enlightening than two minds which agree on all terms, because it is the fundamental stress which the mind requires to advance and evolve new ideas and thoughts. Although the argument can be very frustrating for both participants, ultimately, it will lead both to new understanding, and therefore, new arguments with which the mind will attempt to circumvent the other. It is our love for knowledge which even drives some of us to the debate, always in search of perspective and understanding.

Philosophy, as defined, could be argued as human nature, as it is our knowledge and understanding which sets us apart from animals. The more a creature knows about its surroundings, the more the creature can manipulate and use the things around it to better their own life or standard of living. How could we, simple primates, take to the skies, or craft and internal combustion engine, if we knew nothing of air pressure or fluid dynamics? It has been our nature, as humans, to examine and study everything on this planet to its utmost, and constantly raise our standard of living for the past 50, 000 years. As technology improves, so does our understanding. All humans love knowledge; were it not our nature, we would still be at the state of the orangutan or common raven, who are each only on the brink of using tools at their evolutionary stage.

Philosophy, by nature, is debatable, but I have given my best shot at the only standard definition I have found for it and I will leave you with this understanding -

The ravings of a madman are no ravings at all to the man. By this, anyone who fancies himself a philosopher could very well be a madman and not know it. 

(more)