Practical Philosophy Research Articles

Teleological links between Philosophical Counselling and Logotherapy

This paper will indicate the methodical and subject tangents between philosophical counselling on the one hand, and logotherapy – a psychotherapeutic direction developed in the middle of the last century by the Austrian psychiatrist and neurologist Viktor Frankl – on the other side of the evaluation spectrum. Three main points will be settled in the focus of the elaboration. The first is a technique of the Socratic dialogue, special characteristic of both approaches set forth in the title of this presentation. Yet we can also comfortably say – of almost all psychotherapeutic schools and techniques. With an emphasis on maieutic as the basis of the psyche-hermeneutic process – dynamic disclosure of the person’s essence and its intentional telos. The second point refers to reaching the meaning and purpose of a person as the intentional core. The third point is aimed at reaching the spiritual dimension of the person, viewed as a teleological synthesis and reachable aim of the both approaches. In conclusion, the paper will be put forward that now it is a fruitful time for the therapeutic relationship on the global scene to return to its philosophical foundations methodologically and subjectively. Opening the doors for providing and spreading the “philosophical spirituality” as the global paradigm, enabling humanistic encounter and the philosophical dialogue on the wide global horizon.

Unlocking success: The power of critical thinking in the group facilitation, coaching and team meetings

The absence of a unique and coordinated effort to adapt the promoting of the old philosophical principle to the present need of the people has inspired me to come up with a possible viable solution that I present for your further consideration. I propose two main ideas as the objectives of the paper that, later on, the reader can evaluate which is the best approach to maximize the usage of philosophical services and consulting for the general public. The first idea is to present the impact of mixt approaches between critical thinking and group coaching or group facilitating and the second idea is to target the companies as priority clients and their providers as secondary clients. I present three conflicts, five perspectives and two instruments that can be enhanced by elements of critical thinking in order to achieve the objectives above. What is the utility of philosophical skills in other fields and how should we promote philosophical practice so that philosophy can return to the people in the agora. What I propose is to focus on a bigger market - the profitable companies around us that could provide a big steady source of income - and to look at the other suppliers of services as therapy, coaching, training as partners and not as competitors. These suppliers could and should also become our paying clients and we should work with all of them and not compete against them for some individual residual clients. The practical applications from using philosophical skills in other fields are: controlling emotions using elements of critical thinking, facilitating or managing groups using philosophical counseling principles, increasing communication skills using elements of critical thinking skills, increasing coaching methods using elements of critical thinking skills and facilitating better meetings using elements of critical thinking. It doesn’t matter who was first - Philosophical Practice, critical thinking or coaching, mentoring, therapy or any other. We all know that philosophy was the root of all scientific branches that exist in our days. What really matters is whether all of these approaches can help each other grow and change people’s lives and the way they think about themselves and the world.

Koloniale Laster

Abstract In this article, Carlos Pereda introduces the concept of “colonial reason” and explores how philosophical practices and modes of thought are entwined with colonial political structures of exploitation, exclusion, and oppression. Pereda argues that philosophy in Latin America risks perpetuating and reinforcing the colonial gesture, either by turning to the European centers of thought (thus pursuing debates that always take place elsewhere) or by isolating itself and idealising the “own.” According to Pereda, both approaches fail to dismantle colonial violence within philosophy. In his alternative approach, Pereda outlines principles and methodological criteria for the decolonisation of reason and philosophy. He emphasises the importance of methodological prudence that discerns between innocent, paralysing, and strategic uses of identity expressions and advocates for modes of reading and argumentation that conceive philosophy as an inclusive and ongoing dialogue. In Pereda’s terminology, this entails fostering “permeable reason” that manifests itself through “nomadic thinking,” a form of thinking that is capable of questioning itself and being questioned.

ETIKA KONSELING DALAM ERA DIGITAL: ANCAMAN DAN PELUANG INTERNASIONAL

Counseling becomes a necessity, because the essence of counseling is the help of an expert counselor given to someone to solve their problems. In providing these services, a counselor is governed by ethics, attitudes and personal qualities for the counselor to behave. Professional ethical values are very important in the helping profession. The code of ethics for counselors is established by the counselor professional institution. For the Indonesian territory, the code of ethics for counselors is determined by the Indonesian Counseling Guidance Association, which is abbreviated as ABKIN. A code of ethics is a guide or guideline for professional behavior or a moral foundation that is practiced, secured and upheld by counselors as members of professional organizations. The aim of this research is to describe the professional ethics of counselors in counseling guidance services in the digital era. The method used in this research is a literature study with a qualitative descriptive approach. The data source comes from collecting documents in the form of books and previous research originating from various references. The data analysis technique used is descriptive analysis. The results of this research show that online counseling ethics takes the form of virtual counseling technology, websites, email, video conferences, instant messaging, computers and other social networks. Therefore, online counselors need to be professional in conducting virtual counseling by paying attention to ethics.

Critical Perspectives on Digital Capitalism: Theories and Praxis. Introduction to the Special Issue

Digital capitalism matters. Digital capitalism shapes our lives. Digital capitalism needs to be better understood. We need critical theories of digital capitalism. We need to better understand praxes that challenge digital capitalism and aim at fostering digital democracy and digital socialism. tripleC’s special issue on “Critical Perspectives on Digital Capitalism: Theories and Praxis” wants to contribute to establishing foundations of critical theories and the philosophy of praxis in the light of digital capitalism. This article introduces the topic and provides an overview of the special issue.

Cultural Crisis and the Phenomenological Concept of Sedimentation in E. Husserl’s Philosophy

Husserl names the dynamics of cultural objectifications with the term sedimentation, which includes the formulation of the discovered meaning in material sensory expressions and the reactivation of these passively existing meanings. This paper analyzes this concept of sedimentation and places it in the context of Husserl’s thoughts on the crisis of culture. Unlike the usual interpretations of Husserl’s philosophy of culture which state that the crisis of sciences arises from the inadequacy of their ‘scientificity’ and inability to solve the problems of the meaning of life, I argue that the crisis can be understood as the result of the duality of sedimentation. Sedimentations not only preserve knowledge, but also create the illusion that knowledge reproduces itself. When reflecting on the crisis of culture, Husserl turns from theoretical philosophy to practical philosophy.

Emergence in Complex Physiological Processes: The Case of Vitamin B12 Functions in Erythropoiesis

In this paper, we will explore the relation between molecular structure and functions displayed by biochemical molecules in complex physiological processes by using tools from the philosophy of science and the philosophy of scientific practice. We will argue that biochemical functions are weakly emergent from molecular structure by using an account of weak. In order to explore this thesis, we will consider the role of vitamin B12 in contributing to the process of erythropoiesis. The structure of the paper is the following: First, we will consider biochemical functions and why they cannot be easily reduced to their chemical realisers. We will suggest weak emergence as an alternative while also accounting for the relevance of the context, in our case, systemic and organisational. The paper will conclude by considering (1) how the usage of tools from the philosophy of science, such as weak emergence, can aid our understanding of the relations between the components of complex phenomena, such as erythropoiesis, and (2) how the philosophy of scientific practice sheds light on the explanatory role of processes that are dynamically stabilised and the different levels of organisation implied.

Philosophy of Antisthenes as Therapy in Xenophon’s Symposium

This paper shows the philosophy of Antisthenes of Athens described in Xenophon’s Symposium as a philosophical therapy closely connected with the Socrates’ model also presented in Xenophon’s writings. Antisthenes developed the basic concepts of Socrates’ ethics, like arete, enkrateia, eleutheria and autarkia, giving them a specific radical dimension. This decisive radicalization was Antisthenes’s reaction to the then deep moral crisis which, like his master, he tried to remedy by offering the only proper medicine – philosophy. It was, above all, a practical philosophy that showed a man how to live in order to be able to call his existence, following Socrates, “a life worth living”. The philosophical thought of Antisthenes presented in Xenophon’s Symposium is a peculiar therapy of human souls, and the philosopher himself can therefore be described as a “physician of the soul” (iatros psyches). Since Antisthenes perfectly recognized the state of a special kind of intoxication deeply embedded in society and its addiction to inborn impulses and instincts, as well as attachment to irrational traditions and customs, and his treatment, with the help of philosophy, boiled down to a thorough return to rationality, rejection of excessive bodily desires, and continuous shaping of one’s own personality through work on oneself and practicing virtue.

Philosophical practice and its development in China: opportunities and challenges

This paper examines the application and evolution of philosophical practice in China, which employs philosophical principles and methods to facilitate insights and address life’s complexities. We aim to bridge the knowledge gap regarding the trajectory and contemporary landscape of China’s philosophical practice and its impact on individual and societal flourishing. Guided by the research question, “How has philosophical practice evolved in China, and what are its challenges and future prospects?” this study adopts a qualitative research methodology, including a literature review, historical analysis, and case studies from Chinese philosophical communities. Findings indicate a burgeoning growth of philosophical practice in China, with traditional Chinese philosophies being adapted to provide practical guidance for contemporary issues. The spread of philosophical practice communities across China reflects a growing embrace of these practices. This paper outlines the hurdles and prospects for philosophical practice, pinpointing opportunities for further research and cross-cultural engagement. The insights furnished by this study offer a framework for scholars, practitioners, and policymakers to enhance philosophical practice’s role in personal growth and societal well-being, both within China and internationally.

TRETMAN STRASTI U DEKARTOVOJ FILOZOFIJI MORALA

Τhe article will examine the remedies proposed by René Descartes (1596-1650), in order to deal with unpleasant passions and their excesses, as highlighted in his last work, The Passions of the Soul (1649). In this work, Descartes attempts to reach the core of emotion and, with the help of physiology, to analyse it rationally. The aim of the French philosopher is deeply moral. The demand for a practical philosophy had occupied him since the Sixth Part of his emblematic Discourse on the Method (1637). In The Passions of the Soul this demand is satisfied. Our analysis shows that Descartes' ethics is one of action. Life requires decisions, regardless of their end result. With free will as the cornerstone of his ethical structure, Descartes will set up an educational system for regulating the passions. In dealing with this problem, Descartes opted for a «strategy of generosity». Generosity, the most important notion of Cartesian ethics and the primary remedy that Descartes suggests for useless desires, is a passion and turns into a virtue when passion becomes a habit.

Aristotle’s concept of zoon politikon: on political benefits of being not too perfect

RESEARCH OBJECTIVE: The article discusses the concept of zoon politikon in order to provide arguments justifying the attractiveness of Aristotle’s practical philosophy.
 THE RESEARCH PROBLEM AND METHODS: There are three quasi-definitions of man in Aristotle’s works, each of which emphasises a different aspect of humanity. According to the philosopher, we are speaking animals, political animals (zoa politika) and the only animals endowed with reason. I argue that it is the condition of zoon politikon that comes to the fore as the most human of human properties. The article uses a historical-philosophical method supported by textual analysis.
 THE PROCESS OF ARGUMENTATION: In the first part of the text, Aristotle’s term zoon politikon is analysed as a concept intended to show the superiority of humanity over animality. In the second part, it is presented as a limitation that distinguishes humans from gods. By analysing how these two perspectives overlap, it is then possible to discuss some political consequences of the tension between them.
 RESEARCH RESULTS: The analysis leads to the conclusion that, according to Aristotle, a good human is not someone who “exercises rationality to a high degree”, but above all someone who is political to a high degree. It also suggests that Aristotle’s concept can be used to distinguish between two kinds of politics, which should not be reduced to each other: “artificial” politics (which can be equated with power), and natural human politics (which is based on free individual action in the area of praxis).
 CONCLUSIONS, INNOVATIONS, AND RECOMMENDATIONS: The notion of zoon politikon reflects the relational character of the individual human self, and thus offers a perspective that allows both methodological and political individualism to be challenged. It can also be a source of inspiration for those scholars, who argue that politics cannot be reduced to power.

EUROPEAN SOCIETY OF ENDODONTOLOGY Undergraduate Curriculum Guidelines for Endodontology.

Undergraduate education should accomplish graduates who are skilled to provide quality care for patients, who are aware of their scope of practice, competency level and limits and who are open to referring patients whose needs are beyond their own skills and experience. They should also become self-efficacious. Quality performance begins with good diagnosis and decision-making. Graduates should understand when to treat, why to treat, what to treat and how to treat. These guidelines include a list of capabilities that the graduating student will be expected to have achieved to provide a minimum level of competency in endodontics. Theoretical knowledge, practical skills, understanding and insight should be assessed, with both formative and summative assessment procedures, making use of reflection and feedback. Endodontic procedures should be undertaken within the context of comprehensive patient care and should be evidence based. Students should not perform treatments on patients until they have demonstrated in a pre-clinical setting that they possess the required skills. Only if it is not possible to simulate a specific procedure sufficiently in a pre-clinical setting should students learn this procedure by performing it clinically under close supervision. Clinical endodontics should ideally be supervised by endodontists or by staff with special knowledge, interest and self-efficacy in endodontics. It is advised to ensure that students apply their knowledge and practice their skills periodically throughout the continuum of endodontic education until graduation. A philosophy of lifelong learning and evidence-based practice should be instilled in all dental undergraduates.

The Dueling Ambitions of High Achieving Women: A Family Development Pilot Case Study

At some point prior to their children turning 18, roughly 70% of mothers will hold the position of breadwinner in their family. The increasing number of breadwinning mothers is reflective of the shifting roles of women in families. Although a family role shift is evident for mothers, the centrality of women in the development of families across the lifespan remains unchanged. The centrality of mothers to family development is obvious in the family life cycle. Embedded in the traditional family structure, the family life cycle is a commonly used assessment model for family lifespan development despite its incongruence with professional counseling ethics and curriculum standards. The incongruence highlights the need for a family development model appropriate for diverse family structures. Therefore, a pilot case study approach guided this study as an initial exploration into the family development of high achieving women. An in-depth semi-structured interview with a single participant was conducted and then analyzed using a phenomenological approach. Four themes emerged from the participant's experience: self-efficacy and hustle, supportive relationships, resources used, and barriers faced. The findings from this study demonstrated a clear need for additional research. Additionally, the researcher recommends that counselor educators and family counselors should be cautious in their utilization of existing family development assessment models with diverse families.

Philosophical Counseling as a Form of Supporting Human Resilience

The topic of this article is philosophical counseling as an effective tool to support human resilience. Philosophical counseling encourages individuals to become aware of their beliefs and values, develop critical thinking skills, and find essential meaning in life. However, it may not work for everyone and should be used as a complementary tool alongside other forms of support, such as humanistic psychotherapy. Undoubtedly, it is also important to consider systematic research on the potential benefits and limitations of philosophical counseling in supporting, for example, individual mental health, well-being, and broadly understood human resilience.

Clinical Ethics, Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices of Nurses: A Limited Study in Turkey

Objective: The aim of this cross-sectional study was to evaluate nurses' knowledge, attitudes and practices regarding clinical ethics. Methods: The study was conducted with 300 nurses working in inpatient treatment units of Kocaeli University Hospital in Turkey between January 2023 and April 2023. No sample selection was made. The survey evaluated knowledge (16 questions), attitudes (14 questions) and practices (14 questions) regarding clinical ethics. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25.0 and the p˂0.05 was considered significant. Results: A total of 207 nurses participated in the study, a response rate of approximately 70%. The mean age of the participants was 33.81±7.23 years. The mean ethical knowledge score of the respondents was 9.87.2±2.45 (3-16), the attitude score was 8.87±1.62 (5-13), and the implementation score was 10.35±2.47 (3-14). Nurses' clinical ethics knowledge, attitude and practice scores was above average. Nurse managers who were satisfied with their profession had higher clinical ethics practice scores. Nurses who did not need to receive ethics-related counseling or were able to access ethical counseling had better ethical knowledge and practice scores. There was a moderate positive correlation between ethical knowledge and ethical practice (r=0.109 p<0.001). Conclusion: Respondents reported significant knowledge about clinical ethics, but they lacked knowledge of some issues. As the ethical knowledge of the participants increased, their ethical practice scores also increased. These findings highlight the importance of increasing the knowledge of nurses about clinical ethics through training programs which should result in improved ethical practice.

Idealism and biologism in social reproduction theory: A materialist critique

The article gives a materialist interpretation of the first, second and third Marxist-feminist Theses through a critical analysis of the Unitary Theory of Social Reproduction. It argues that Social Reproduction Theory resorts to idealism and biologism when explaining male domination. A meta-critical incision will be carried out by studying the use Social Reproduction Theory makes of categories such as ‘production’, ‘reproduction’, ‘exploitation’ and ‘oppression’, in that these categories are addressed as historical while the categories of ‘women’ and ‘men’ are de-historicized and naturalized. According to Unitary Theories, ‘women’ are not material, historical products of patriarchy but biological beings (biologism) that have been culturally devalued (idealism). This leads to an essentialist ontology where ‘women’ and ‘men’ precede the relations of production that create them. This idea obstructs the formation of a materialist philosophy of praxis.

Integrative Analysis of Socio-linguistic Principles in Applied Language Teaching

In the new century, the pace of academic categorization has accelerated, necessitating the promotion of practical philosophy. This paper contrasts sociolinguistics with applied linguistics, emphasizing challenges in Chinese-English bilingual education. The aim is to enhance educators’ theoretical understanding and foster pedagogical reform.

Indigenising research: Moanaroa a philosophy for practice

Growing interest in Pacific issues has meant a surge in Pacific research across the globe. Sadly, some research on Pacific people has been done without Pacific knowledge, wisdom and culture. As Pacific researchers, we understand the importance of outputs that interweave our ancestral and cultural wisdom, whilst centring and privileging our people’s narratives. Through the birth of our Moanaroa Pacific Research group, we explore the importance of a research collective which decolonises and re indigenises research as we know it.

Reflection on the teaching of ideology and Morality and the Rule of Law under the guidance of Marxist practical philosophy

"Based on the ideological and moral and the rule of law classroom teaching students to “bear the era of national rejuvenation” understanding of this article, from the perspective of marxist practice philosophy, the teaching content, so as to persuade students theoretically, guide students ideologically, promote students’teaching goal in practice."

Challenges and Opportunities Surrounding Catholic Education

Abstract Catholic education faces a number of serious challenges including cultural and political disrespect for, and hostility towards religion in general and Catholicism in particular, and lack of knowledge of, and commitment to, Catholic beliefs and values among Catholic educational administrators, school managers, teachers, and other staff, as well as the diminishing percentage of even nominally Catholic staff. I set these matters within the context of broader challenges surrounding Catholic education, deriving from three cultural movements: the reformation, the emergence of liberalism, and the scientific revolution, which undermined the synthesis of scripture, theology, and speculative and practical philosophy achieved in the high middle-ages. I propose in response a creative critique showing that what is of authentic value in modernity can be accommodated within the traditional synthesis. I also connect that tradition with strands of eastern philosophy suggesting that the movement of people, ideas, and traditions from Eastern cultures into historically Western societies provides an opportunity for further synthesis of a wisdom-based approach to education.