Value Of Philosophy And The Apology Analysis

In this essay, I will be writing about Bertrand Russell’s “The Value of Philosophy” and Plato’s The Apology. These readings were written by two very important and valued philosophers who made a huge impact on the philosophical community throughout time. “The Value of Philosophy” is Russell’s point of view when it comes to philosophy. The Apology is Plato’s version of the trial of Socrates, so the reading is about what Socrates believed was philosophy. This essay will discuss the views, values, similarities, and differences between Russell and Socrates. Bertrand Russell had straight forward and partially controversial points of view when it came to philosophy. For Western cultures, his beliefs made a lot of sense because he was all about self-actualization. Contemplation was the major characteristic that defined Russell’s philosophical views to achieve this self-actualization. Through contemplation, a person can expand one’s self and enlarge their knowledge. He believed that through questioning one can find knowledge even if no definite answer is concluded. Philosophy, to Russell, was once everything in the world that could not always be understood. Finally, when answers were given, the philosophy became an official science like astronomy and physical science. This is …show more content…
He believed that philosophy would bring meaning and knowledge into someone’s life. Wisdom is the key to philosophy and understanding that you do not know everything will expanded one’s wisdom. Someone who walks through life, going with the flow, and never questioning anything will stagnate their growth and will never reach their full potential. Questioning everything will lead to a better sense of self and can bring meaning to life. If a person lives their life wanting to understand and gain more knowledge, they will know that death is nothing to fear because it is ok that the questions of the afterlife are not