Karl Jaspers: 'Philosophy as practice does not mean its restriction to utility or applicability, that is, to what serves morality or produces serenity of soul.'

Philosophy as practice does not mean its restriction to utility or applicability, that is, to what serves morality or produces serenity of soul.

In his quote, Karl Jaspers presents an intriguing insight about the nature of philosophy as a practice. He suggests that philosophy should not be limited solely to its utility or applicability in serving morality or producing serenity of soul. This means that philosophy goes beyond its conventional understanding as a means to achieve practical ends or personal tranquility. Instead, it encompasses a broader realm of exploration and intellectual engagement, offering a unique perspective that reaches far beyond the confines of functional purpose.Jaspers' words encapsulate the essence of philosophy as an active pursuit, free from the constraints of practical concerns. It emphasizes the value of philosophical inquiry for its own sake, detached from immediate practical applications. By removing the necessity of directly serving morality or imparting inner peace, philosophy can fully embrace its potential for intellectual exploration, critical reasoning, and even existential contemplation.This perspective on philosophy opens up a new dimension of its importance. It implies that philosophical practice can delve into ideas and concepts that may not have an obvious connection to morality or serenity of soul. In this regard, philosophy becomes a creative and imaginative endeavor, allowing for the exploration of abstract notions and unconventional perspectives.One unexpected philosophical concept that can be introduced to enhance the discussion is the notion of absurdism. This concept, famously explored by Albert Camus and other existentialist philosophers, revolves around the idea that life is fundamentally devoid of inherent meaning or purpose. Absurdism suggests that human existence is characterized by a confrontation with the absurdity of the world, which inherently lacks logical coherence or ultimate significance.By juxtaposing Jaspers' idea of philosophy's freedom from practical limitations with the concept of absurdism, we can further highlight the importance of philosophy as an independent and unrestricted field of study. Absurdism challenges conventional notions of meaning and purpose, providing a unique perspective for philosophical exploration. It prompts individuals to question traditional beliefs and constructs, inviting them to engage in philosophical practice that extends beyond the boundaries of immediate application or personal tranquility.In comparing and contrasting Jaspers' quote with the concept of absurdism, we can observe a subtle tension between the practical and the abstract within philosophy. While Jaspers emphasizes the liberation of philosophy from utility and applicability, absurdism pushes the boundaries even further by questioning the very foundations of commonly held practical frameworks. Both ideas ultimately emphasize the inherent value of philosophy as a means of intellectual growth, introspection, and the pursuit of truth, irrespective of its direct connections to moral or existential concerns.In conclusion, Karl Jasper's quote about philosophy as practice challenges the prevailing notion of limiting philosophy solely to serving morality or producing serenity of soul. It invites us to recognize the intrinsic value of philosophical inquiry for its own sake, emphasizing the importance of unrestricted exploration and imaginative engagement. By considering the contrast with absurdism, we gain a deeper understanding of the breadth and depth of philosophy's potential, as it allows for the investigation of abstract concepts and unconventional perspectives. Ultimately, this perspective fosters intellectual growth, critical thinking, and a deeper appreciation for the multifaceted nature of human existence.