Kevin Browne, college philosophy professor for over 20 years

Answered Aug 11 2016 · Author has 723 answers and 672.8k answer views
Originally Answered: why do we need to philosophize?
Because we’re human. Because we’re curious. Because we want to know about how the
world works and knowing this means asking some philosophical questions.

For Socrates the answer might have been to make life worth living as he once said “the
unexamined life is not worth living.” Philosophy is the method for engaging in that
examination.

Our search for meaning, as documented by Viktor Frankl is one which requires us to
philosophize as well. According to Frankl meaning can be found even in the worst of
conditions but to find it requires reflection and that reflection will be philosophical.

We also philosophize because it is fun. We should not overlook this important motivator for
all our investigations. As Richard Feynman put it we learn for the “pleasure of finding things
out.”

Brian Hall, studies Cognitive Science at University of Georgia (2021)

Answered Oct 12, 2016
Originally Answered: why do we need to philosophize?
“An unexamined life is not worth living” - Socrates

Philosophizing with others is not necessary, but surely it is very beneficial. Placing yourself
in social settings and having constructive conversations with others allows you to
learn different perspectives other than your own. You don't have to agree with an idea
presented to you by others, but being able to see the different ways people view things
helps you to understand the motives for certain actions of others. This opens up a new way
of living your life by accepting new ideas, and taking them to improve yourself.

Steven Cook
Answered Nov 25, 2018 · Author has 1.5k answers and 3.1m answer views
Originally Answered: why do we need to philosophize?
Philosophy helps us grow and become independent, productive and useful members of
society. To better understand the human condition in a world that is full of chaos and
disorder and negative energy we philosophize to understand why certain things happen in
human relationships as well as to find new ways to better ourselves mentally and
emotionally. You will come across ideas that are wrong and others that are more accurate.

In short Philosophy is a developmental science of human nature.