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Introduction
Philosophy has often been criticized for its lack of practical utility. Indeed, some scientists and their followers maintain that most of the philosophical questions, especially the most basic ones that have been researched for centuries, are still unanswered. As a result, metaphysical, ontological, and existential endeavors are seen as excellent mental exercise or means of entertainment, taking the most optimistic view. However, it can be argued that philosophy had and still has a significant impact on human lives and scientific development. To prove this point, the current essay seeks to introduce several examples that demonstrate the interconnectedness of this sphere of knowledge with other sciences. Moreover, this paper attempts to analyze why philosophy is criticized for being non-scientific based on Bertrand Russell’s ideas concerning this discipline’s aim.
Philosophy and Other Sciences
Firstly, philosophy is connected to other sciences simply because the latter appeared from the successes of the former. For instance, probably the main book of Isaac Newton is called “Mathematical principles of natural philosophy,” suggesting that modern physics has its roots in philosophy. Similarly, astronomy, sociology, political science, and psychology were once considered branches of this discipline. Therefore, the relationship of philosophy with other knowledge spheres exists, at least from the historical perspective.
Also, a philosophy developed the main methodological principles of the research that many sciences apply in practice nowadays. In this regard, it is important to mention such thinkers as David Hume and Immanuel Kant, who thoroughly criticized our judgment abilities and investigated the limits of human minds. Thus, to deliver credible knowledge, scholars now not only need to question the world around them but also reflect on one’s abilities to uncover the truth. As a result, such an approach reduced the number of scientific speculations and wrongful conclusions in every sphere of knowledge.
Finally, to show that philosophy not only determined the shape of most of the modern sciences but continues to influence them, the case of Albert Einstein’s relativity theory creation should be discussed. First of all, the great physicist was concerned with time and space – questions that have been the central philosophical problems for many years. Therefore, only due to the combination of physical and philosophical expertise could Einstein create the framework that hugely determined the later course of history. Additionally, the physicists admitted that if he had not read Hume’s “A treatise of human nature,” the theory of special relativity would probably not have appeared (Malik, 2019). However, it is unfortunate to notice that these facts are mostly overlooked.
Bernard Russell’s Views on Philosophy
Bernard Russel can provide a good answer to why philosophy is greatly undervalued. The philosopher claims that, as in other disciplines, philosophy also aims at knowledge. However, it “is the kind of knowledge which gives unity and system to the body of the sciences, and… results from a critical examination of the grounds of our…beliefs” (Russell, 2008, p.72). The thinker stresses that philosophy constantly increases our understanding despite being unable to give definite answers. As a result, such an endeavor is rarely associated with real success. To oppose such a view, Russel contends that those who claim that philosophy did not make essential discoveries view knowledge utility through lenses of practical applicability. Yet, the philosopher maintains that such an approach is wrong as humans should seek the truth not only for material benefits but also as an end in itself. The latter would help people fight prejudices and increase cultural horizons, thus, leading to increased happiness.
Conclusion
Overall, the current essay introduced three examples to prove the interconnectedness between philosophy and other sciences. Firstly, it was mentioned that many modern disciplines originally evolved from philosophy. Secondly, philosophy greatly determined the methodological basis to achieve more accurate knowledge for literally all sciences. Finally, the evidence suggests that philosophy still greatly influences other sciences. Additionally, this paper considered Russel’s views on philosophy and his opinion on why this discipline is greatly undervalued.
References
Russell, B. (2008). The problems of philosophy. Arc Manor.
Malik, K. (2019). Einstein got it – philosophy and science do go hand in hand. The Guardian.
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