Thursday, May 17, 2007

Socrates asked me

Critical Philosophy...is not the act of being critical or negative as we often think of it but rather being critical, or holding up to the light, fuzzy thinking. For example, I say, "I'd be much happier if I had more money." Socrates would begin with two questions to help me gain clarity: happier than what? how much money?
Try it on yourself...

2 comments:

Kirsten Imani Kasai said...

I frequently ask myself these questions, and use the answers as guideposts. Having enough money to meet all my basic needs, save for the future, afford a home and some luxuries (like travel), is all I need.

It's important to have a clear sense of one's personal value system as well. If your idea of happiness is being healthy, having a supportive family or friends, and enjoying life's bounty-good food, a nice glass of wine, a hike, a satisfying story-then money can only purchase the things that you like. Whether or not you actually enjoy them ifs up to you.

Sujantra said...

Socrates might ask:"Could you be happy with no money beyond that which assured thatyour basic needs: food, shelter and clothing were met?"