Doing Philosophy

What are philosophers trying to achieve?

Philosophers aim to clarify our thoughts, develop philosophical theories, and enhance our understanding through rational dispute and imaginative thought experiments.

How can they succeed?

Success depends on the development and testing of theories, logical rigour, and the ability to compare theories against each other using standards similar to those in the natural and social sciences.

Does philosophy make progress?

Philosophy makes progress through its theories' successes and failures, and by refining its methods over time, as illustrated by its history.

Is it in competition with science, or doing something completely different, or neither?

Philosophy is neither in direct competition with science nor entirely separate; it develops through rational dispute, clarification, and testing of theories, often using methods like thought experiments that complement scientific approaches.