Accounts Quote by Philip Kitcher
“So this is my attempt to give a preliminary - probably far too crude - account of how philosophy by showing can really teach us. The attempts we make to work through problems by reasoning always presuppose starting points, and even the most self-critical philosophers adopt some of those starting points simply by picking them up from the social environments in which they grow up.”
About This Quote
Source Book: “Philosophy in the Flesh”, 2007
Philosophical reasoning is grounded in social and cultural starting points, even when philosophers claim objectivity.
In simple terms: Philosophy builds on social foundations.
Key Takeaway
Recognize hidden assumptions in arguments.
Themes
philosophy
social influence
assumptions
Mood
thoughtful
inquisitive
Type
academic
philosophical
When to use this quote
- academic research
- policy making
- personal belief formation
Key Concepts
Epistemology
cultural conditioning
critical thinking
Questions to Reflect On
- What are your own hidden assumptions?
- How can we test the universality of a premise?
A Different Perspective
Overemphasis on social roots may downplay logical rigor.
