Philosophy is not considered a substandard way of thinking. In fact, philosophy is a highly respected and foundational field of inquiry that has been central to the development of human knowledge for thousands of years. It is often regarded as the mother of all sciences and has contributed significantly to various academic disciplines.
However, it is true that in certain contexts, some individuals or groups may hold a negative view of philosophy or question its practicality. This can stem from a variety of reasons:
Misunderstanding: People may have a limited understanding of what philosophy entails or the value it brings. They might perceive it as abstract or detached from practical concerns, failing to recognize its relevance to real-world issues.
Empirical Bias: Some individuals prioritize empirical evidence and tangible results over philosophical inquiry. They may view philosophy as less rigorous or less capable of producing concrete answers compared to scientific or empirical methods.
Lack of Consensus: Philosophy often deals with complex and profound questions that may not have definitive or universally accepted answers. The absence of clear consensus can lead some to perceive philosophy as uncertain or speculative, although ongoing debates and discussions are intrinsic to the field.
Specialization and Fragmentation: The expansion of specialized fields within academia has led to a focus on narrower and more specialized areas of study. This has occasionally resulted in a reduced emphasis on philosophy as a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to knowledge.
It is important to recognize that these criticisms or misconceptions about philosophy are not universally held, and many individuals and institutions continue to appreciate and engage in philosophical thinking. Philosophy encompasses critical reasoning, analysis of fundamental concepts, ethics, logic, and metaphysics, among other areas, and plays a vital role in shaping our understanding of the world, values, and human existence.