Philosophical knowledge is knowledge based on logic and the construction or definition of concepts. It is a methodical knowledge that aims to find valid explanations for the various problems proposed.
The knowledge originated by philosophy is a way of interpreting reality that differs from other ways of knowing.
In this way, we can also understand what philosophical knowledge is based on its distinction from other forms of knowledge.
1. Philosophical knowledge is not mythology
Philosophical knowledge was born, precisely, as a denial of myths.
THE mythology it brought with it a range of fantastical stories that gave some explanation for reality grounded in belief and without any commitment to logic.
Philosophical knowledge is born from logos (argumentation, logic, rational thinking). Reason points out the contradictions present in the myths and brings the need for logical-rational knowledge, which arises from philosophy.
2. Philosophical knowledge is not common sense
Common sense refers to the knowledge of the common individual. It is a knowledge based on customs, it does not have proofs, demonstrations and, at times, it is not logical.
Common sense underlies many prejudices that have their roots in cultural issues. It presents the habit itself as justification.
Philosophical knowledge, in turn, is logical knowledge, has a method and is supported by a theory.
3. Philosophical knowledge is not religion
Religious knowledge is supported by a theory or a theoretical system, as is philosophical knowledge.
However, because it is a religion, this knowledge is based on faith. Religious knowledge is based on some dogmas.
Dogmas are undoubted truths (cannot be doubted) reinforced by belief.
Philosophical knowledge has doubt as a method. Inquiry is the "touchstone" of philosophy. Everything can be called into question, everything is worthy of discussion. It differs from the religious by its questioning character.
4. Philosophical knowledge is not science
Despite the close relationship between science and philosophy, there are particularities that require a differentiation.
The sciences were born with the same purpose as philosophy and historically walked together or being identified as the same way of knowing.
The decisive factor for this union or differentiation occurs by the empirical (experience). Experience is the foundation of science. It is the form of proof or validation of a scientific theory.
It is through empiricism, or experiment, that scientists find the "truth" about their object of study.
For philosophy, experience is part of the knowledge process, but it can be present or not. There is no need for empirical validation of knowledge.
However, in the construction of philosophical knowledge it is valid to develop a theory that cannot be tested, but which is a theoretical abstraction validated by logic..
This makes it possible for philosophy to devote itself to topics that are not subject to empirical proof, such as metaphysics. When empiricism is possible, philosophy and science can go hand in hand.
As an example, the most important academic title, in different areas, is called a PhD. By producing a theory and original knowledge, the researcher receives the title of PhD, which means Philosop doctor, which means "doctor of philosophy".
That is, this individual driven by the "love of knowledge" (original meaning of the term "philosophy") has become a doctor, a profound connoisseur of a particular scientific area.
Philosophical Knowledge and Attitude
Philosophical knowledge is knowledge based on questioning all of reality. This questioning is called the philosophical attitude.
The philosophical attitude treats with strangeness (admiration) what is most common and trivial in everyday life. Everything is understood as new, as something to be discovered, as something to be known.
Interested? See too:
- Types of Knowledge
- empirical knowledge
- What is philosophy for?
- What is a philosophical attitude?
- Know yourself: the meaning of the Greek aphorism
