Tuesday, March 16, 2021

Bertrand Russell The Problems of Philosophy


Great introduction to philosophy. It's not really the problems of philosophy that are important, rather the ideas where they come from, the terms, the definitions, the meanings, the different ways to explain, refute, and rationalization, in short, how to think about well, anything, and everything. 

If you've read a lot of philosophy, chances are you will know everything in this book, or at least be familiar with the ideas and concepts presented, but it's a good fresh reminder and Bertrand's final chapters here are especially refreshing for a retail philosopher in aisle 9 like myself. 

One of my favorite parts of the book was the chapter where Russell explains Hegelian dialectic in 15 pages. It's poignant, and the fact that I'm familiar with Hegel firsthand, I found Russell's interpretation quite appreciated and inciteful. 

Remember that his friend, Ludwig Wittgenstein said there are no problems with philosophy, only a problem with language. One is standing with the pillars of western philosophy and the other is smashing it to pieces in a way.

On Reading

Reading, a peaceful balm for the soul, A refuge from life's tumultuous toll, An escape from the world's constant noise, A respite fr...