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Do you need social skills to engage in philosophy?

Wheatley October 25, 2018 at 09:26 1200 views 5 comments
It's easy to sit in an armchair and think about philosophical problems. Engaging in philosophy with another person is a different matter. Of course you need communication skills for other people to understand you. My question is do you also need social skills to engage in effective philosophy? I guess it depends on whether or not discussing philosophy with other members on a philosophy forum is a form of socializing. Well is it?

Comments (5)

Metaphysician Undercover October 25, 2018 at 10:33 #222223
How would you describe "effective philosophy"?
unenlightened October 25, 2018 at 10:58 #222226
Reply to Metaphysician Undercover It's when the donkey's hind legs fall off.
Wheatley October 25, 2018 at 11:36 #222231
Quoting Metaphysician Undercover
How would you describe "effective philosophy"?

I mean having an effective discussion involving philosophy where you can successfully communicate your ideas with someone, but without the participants talking past each other.
Jake October 25, 2018 at 11:42 #222232
This topic title made me laugh out loud. :smile: Thanks for that.
Pattern-chaser October 25, 2018 at 12:11 #222237
Talking with anyone about anything is a social activity. So philosophy, when it is discussed with others, is one too. The argument that social skills will enhance your 'social-philosophy' seems convincing. But you can indulge in philosophy anyway. It's just that social skills could help. :up: