Impact of Buddhist Philosophy on Odia Language and Literature An Appraisal : Manoranjan Dwibedy

Philosophical Practice in Present Time

Neetu Bhandari

Abstract

With the advent of human civilization, a pandora's box of enormous possibilities and choices has emerged before us. This undoubtedly has given us room to explore various dimensions/aspects about our unmounted materialism, alienation from self and others, and of course an erratic lifestyle that is constantly in a struggle within our inner turmoil causing existential challenges/ crises. Hence with this chaos, it is important to understand and acknowledge the role of philosophy and its significance during the pandemic. Since historical times, philosophy has always helped people to understand and question their beliefs and ideas. But with time, our society seems to have abandoned the value system created by philosophy. In regard to this, philosophical practice; a new domain in applied philosophy, helps people address their dilemmas, predicaments, and everyday issues. Through critical thinking and rational reasoning, an individual derives self-reflection and coherent thought processes. Bearing in mind the above arguments, this study aims to shed light on the nature of the philosophical practice, its role, and its need during the pandemic.

Keywords - Existential crisis, Philosophical practice, Critical thinking, Epistemic justification, philosophizing.

1. WHAT IS PHILOSOPHY FOR?

In the current scenario, if one asks how philosophers have contributed in this pandemic, the common perception would be relating to their academic work. It seems that philosophy is limited to academic philosophy whose aim is to deal with the concepts, ideas, theory-building but it doesn‘t have scope for practical outlook. Thus academic philosophy doesn‘t offer tools in solving the everyday issues of life. Practical philosophy on the other hand, inculcates a rational outlook and critical thinking which in turn helps in developing a deeper understanding of concrete issues or situations.

Philosophy, as a discipline, is a way of thinking about reality and human beings. It helps us to figure out: what gives it meaning, what makes it beautiful, where its evils come from, and ultimately what is the nature of reality itself. It is an attempt to question our personal lives. For example, why do we do what we do, why do we think what we think, why do we feel what we feel? All these thoughts, feelings, and actions one understands not because of hormones or neurotransmitters but by personal experiences or hereditary conditions. It‘s an activity of thought which demands a critical and comprehensive attitude. As a comprehensive and critical thought, it helps to settle doubt, unveils