Writing is about capturing, holding, and interacting with an audience. The undertaking of trying to create a unique idea then develop and organize that idea into a story is sometimes daunting. Finally, writers block compounds the problem. Although, philosophy is a quest for knowledge and truth of the natural world, it can be a means to help the writer.
A Quick look at Philosophy:
Philosophy has had a profound influence on western civilization and culture. Many religious, political, and scientific beliefs have roots in philosophy. Socrates, Plato, Aristotle, are a few of the early philosophers. Aristotle developed logical thinking, Socrates debated virtues (Socratic method), and Plato wrote dramatic dialogues. An example of philosophical influence is Ben Franklin’s 13th virtue (humility) that states, “Imitate Jesus and Socrates” (From the Autobiography). Later influential philosophers including Locke (liberalism) and Descartes (theory of ideas) expanded philosophical ideas.
Help for the writer:
Writing requires creativity, critical thinking and focus. Some papers create opposing arguments to get a reader to draw conclusions. Poems create mental pictures and stir emotions. Stories invoke the imagination and entertain; it can be an account or a tale. Many stories involve a conflict or moral dilemma. Accordingly, Philosophy uses rational arguments to define ethical concepts, real- world questions, and fundamental truths. According to Ohio Northern University, Philosophy opens a portal to the world from the perspective of diverse people (2012). Therefore, an awareness of philosophy can motivate creative thinking, generate ideas and give insight to complex issues.
Philosophy and the arguments are sometimes confusing. Remember school and trying to fathom the meaning of Shakespeare’s plays written in a style that has multiple meanings. “I wasted time, and now doth time waste me” (William Shakespeare). Does this mean regretting getting old, a pointless life, or both? Likewise, the question could be, “Is this all there is to life?” For this purpose, suppose the character loses a friend and asks, “Why my friend and not me?” “Is there really a benevolent deity?” “Did they know my true feelings?” All of these are philosophical questions of justice, love, religion, truth, and existence. The concepts create many story directions for the writer. The readers’ interpretations and involvement are immeasurable.
Putting it altogether:
A writer does not need a degree in Philosophy to gain rewards. Bertrand Russell interpreted the Greek meaning of Philosophy as embarking on a sightseeing adventure for its own benefits (Quoted by Philosophical Society). Many books and internet resources provide interpretations and summaries of Philosophers’ ideas. They present key points that promote a better understanding and can create ideas for the writer. An example is the Socratic paradox that illuminates contradictions that can arise with acknowledgement of ideas or conclusions based on common sense. However, what is common sense?
Sources:
Ohio Northern University, (2012). What is Philosophy. Retrieved from http://www.onu.edu/academics/getty_college_of_arts_sciences/areas_of_study/philosophy_and_religion/what_is_philosophy
Philosophical Society, (n.d.) What Philosophy is. Retrieved from http://www.philosophicalsociety.com/What%20Philosophy%20Is.htm