Conditions of a Philosophical Discussion

Abstract

As its method, philosophy uses argumentative discussion. Philosophy does not often appeal directly to observations or experiences, although they have a place in argumentation as well. Because philosophy is discursive, it delves in the realms of language and the use of language. Defining concepts is a central theme. The rules and argumentation principles of rational discussion are another cornerstone of philosophy. I defend two things that are seen to be conflicting: philosophical relativity and common core rationality. Both are necessary in order to balance each other out. I argue that a certain intuitive and common conception of truth and reality is necessary in order to conduct philosophical discussion. This does not, however, mean that we are in philosophical agreement over the fundamental nature of truth and reality. However, this intuitive conception gives us a starting point, a basic understanding of the development of philosophy. For this reason, much of this chapter is focused on common understanding, common language and shared experiences of reality. This common level is often bypassed in philosophical conversation, even though it includes philosophically interesting questions that especially Wittgenstein highlighted.