Philosophy is a fascinating subject with a rich history spanning centuries. It is a discipline that explores fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, reality, and values. Philosophy can be intimidating for beginners due to its vast and complex range of topics. However, with the right guidance and resources, anyone can start their journey into the world of philosophy. In this guide, we will provide you with some tips and recommended readings to help you get started.
Step 1: Find Your Interests
The first step to studying philosophy is to find your interests. Philosophy covers a wide range of topics, including metaphysics, epistemology, ethics, political philosophy, and more. It’s essential to consider what questions or topics interest you the most, as this will help guide you towards the areas you want to explore.
One way to identify your interests is to read introductory books on philosophy. Two excellent books for beginners are “The Problems of Philosophy” by Bertrand Russell and “Think” by Simon Blackburn. These books are written in a way that is accessible to non-philosophers and cover a range of interesting topics. Once you have a better idea of what topics interest you, you can start looking for more specialized books to deepen your understanding.
Step 2: Recommended Books for Beginners
To get started on your philosophical journey, we recommend reading primary texts. While primary texts can be challenging, they provide a direct insight into the ideas of great thinkers. A good place to start is with “The Complete Works of Plato,” which provides a sample of almost every topic that has come up in the history of philosophy. Plato is an excellent companion to introductory texts, as you’ll see all those topics that were explained in that text, but in a primary text from a great thinker in history.
Other recommended books for beginners include “Meditations” by Marcus Aurelius, “The Confessions” by St. Augustine, “Meditations” by René Descartes, and “On Liberty” by John Stuart Mill. These books are excellent choices for beginners and will provide a solid foundation for further exploration.
Step 3: Philosophy as a Way of Life
Philosophy is not just a subject of study; it’s a way of life. It’s essential to remember that philosophy is a journey of constant learning and growth. Don’t approach it as a checklist but as a process of exploration and discovery. You will never fully understand a work of philosophy, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t keep reading and learning.
To fully appreciate the value of philosophy, it’s important to apply its ideas to your life. Philosophy can help you to develop your critical thinking skills, gain a better understanding of the world around you, and learn to live a more fulfilling life. You can use philosophical concepts to analyze and evaluate your own beliefs and values, and to gain a deeper understanding of the world and the people around you.
Step 4: Further Exploration
If you’ve finished the recommended readings and want to explore more, there are many ways to continue your philosophical journey. Consider taking a course, attending a lecture, or joining a philosophy group. These will provide opportunities to discuss ideas and learn from others who are passionate about philosophy.
Another way to deepen your understanding of philosophy is to engage with online communities. There are many forums, social media groups, and blogs dedicated to philosophical discussions. You can participate in debates, ask questions, and learn from experts and enthusiasts from around the world.
Step 5: Watch Philosophy Videos and Podcasts
In addition to reading books and engaging with philosophical communities, another way to learn about philosophy is through videos and podcasts. Philosophers such as Daniel Dennett, Peter Singer, and Slavoj Žižek have given TED talks, and there are many philosophy channels on YouTube that cover a wide range of topics.
Podcasts are another great way to learn about philosophy. “Philosophize This!” is a popular podcast that covers a range of topics in an accessible and entertaining way. “The History of Philosophy Without Any Gaps” is another great podcast that provides a comprehensive overview of the history of philosophy.
Step 6: Take Philosophy Courses
Many universities offer introductory philosophy courses that are open to the public. Taking a course can be a great way to learn about philosophy in a structured environment and to engage with other students. You can also pursue a degree in philosophy if you decide that you want to study the subject more in-depth.
Step 7: Apply Philosophy to Your Life
Philosophy is not just a subject to be studied; it can also be applied to your life. By reflecting on philosophical ideas and applying them to your own life, you can gain a deeper understanding of yourself and the world around you. For example, if you’re interested in ethics, you can apply ethical theories to real-world problems and dilemmas.
Conclusion
Studying philosophy can be a challenging but rewarding experience. By following these steps and engaging with the subject in a variety of ways, you can gain a deeper understanding of the world and yourself. Remember, philosophy is a journey of constant learning and growth, and there is always more to discover. Don’t be afraid to explore and ask questions, and most importantly, have fun! Happy learning!