The term "philosophy" comes from two Greek words, "philo" meaning friend or lover, and "sophia" meaning wisdom. Therefore, philosophy is the love of wisdom. Being a lover of wisdom means seeking the attainment of wisdom, cultivating and exercising ones own powers of reasoning, reflecting, evaluating, and decision-making. It is a way of life that involves a certain approach to the world, a certain attitude towards knowledge, and a certain way of thinking. A philosopher is someone who loves wisdom and seeks to understand the world and the human experience. Characteristics of a philosopher include:
-
Curiosity: A philosopher is curious about the world and seeks to understand it.
-
Open-mindedness: A philosopher is open to new ideas and perspectives, and is willing to consider different viewpoints.
-
Critical thinking: A philosopher is skilled in critical thinking, which involves analyzing and evaluating arguments and evidence.
-
Intellectual humility: A philosopher recognizes the limits of their own knowledge and is willing to admit when they are wrong.
-
Love of wisdom: A philosopher has a deep appreciation for knowledge and seeks to understand the world and the human experience.