Exploring Philosophy

Kwame Anthony Appiah talks about what it means to be a philosopher in this philosophy talk. Appiah recalls developing an interest in philosophy while in school. He had friends who were interested in the subject, and teachers who influenced him and sparked his interest in philosophy. He also credits his initial interest in philosophy to a book called Language, Truth and Logic.

Appiah says that the exciting thing about philosophy is that it allows individuals to ask big questions and rigorously examine possible answers. This, as Appiah points out, really differs from the way that these questions are approached in Sunday schools.

Appiah doesn't believe that philosophy can improve every subject of study. He does, however, believe that philosophy belongs with the humanities.

Appiah says that basically philosophers study how things generally fit together.