How to Think like a Philosopher: Twelve Key Principles for More Humane, Balanced, and Rational Thinking

Description

An invitation to the habits of good thinking from philosopher Julian Baggini. By now, it should be clear: in the face of disinformation and disaster, we cannot hot take, life hack, or meme our way to a better future. But how should we respond instead? In How to Think like a Philosopher, Julian Baggini turns to the study of reason itself for practical solutions to this question, inspired by our most eminent philosophers, past and present. Baggini offers twelve key principles for a more humane, balanced, and rational approach to thinking: pay attention; question everything (including your questions); watch your steps; follow the facts; watch your language; be eclectic; be a psychologist; know what matters; lose your ego; think for yourself, not by yourself; only connect; and don’t give up. Each chapter is chockful of real-world examples showing these principles at work—from the discovery of penicillin to the fight for trans rights—and how they lead to more thoughtful conclusions. More than a book of tips and tricks (or ways to be insufferably clever at parties), How to Think like a Philosopher is an invitation to develop the habits of good reasoning that our world desperately needs. NTENTS Introduction 1. Pay attention 2. Question everything (including your questions) 3. Watch your steps 4. Follow the facts 5. Watch your language 6. Be eclectic 7. Be a psychologist 8. Know what matters 9. Lose your ego 10. Think for yourself, not by yourself 11. Only connect 12. Don’t give up Conclusion Glossary of key concepts The interviewees Notes