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About this quote

What does it mean?
Philosophy is done through active engagement rather than building static theories.
In plain terms
Philosophy is something you do, not just a theory.
What can you take from it?
Engage in philosophical activity instead of seeking theories.

Where it applies

  • debate
  • study
  • critical thinking

Putting it to work

  • analyze problems
  • clear up confusions

Questions to consider

  • Are you practicing philosophy or studying it?
  • What activity defines your inquiry?

Another view

Some philosophical work produces theoretical frameworks.

More from Ludwig Wittgenstein

  1. Philosophy is like trying to open a safe with a combination lock: each little adjustment of the dials seems to achieve nothing, only when everything is in plac…

    Permalink to quote #126
  2. Someone who knows too much finds it hard not to lie.

    Permalink to quote #128
  3. One often makes a remark and only later sees how true it is.

    Permalink to quote #125

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