How to Do Philosophy

Paul Graham’s essay How to Do Philosophy argues that traditional philosophy has been largely unproductive due to structural problems.

The Core Problem: Words

Most philosophical debates stem from linguistic confusion. Everyday language breaks down at extremes—concepts like “free will” lack precise definitions. “Outside of math there’s a limit to how far you can push words.”

Historical Misalignment

Aristotle made a critical error by treating abstract theoretical knowledge as valuable because it was useless. This inverted logic created centuries of unproductive speculation.

The Proposed Solution

Ask: “Of all the useful things we can say, which are the most general?”

• Use applicability as a guide to prevent abstract wandering
• Test ideas by whether they cause readers to behave differently
• Examples: controlled experiments and evolutionary theory

My Takeaway

Philosophy structurally resembles mathematics in 1500—early in development with vast undiscovered territory. The field is accessible to anyone, not just academics.

What philosophical questions do you find useful? I’d love to hear at persdre@gmail.com.