JasonPalmer wrote: ↑Wed Mar 14, 2012 9:05 am
i was talking to someone who works in a shelter for homeless people, she told me they often see philosophy graduates who are homeless, she says they wander around mumbling, reading books and staring at the sky a lot
This story is admittedly pathetic, however it lacks key information: how many occurrences are meant by “often”? how many graduates were seen? how many people were seen who were not philosophy graduates?
The OP underscores the difficulties encountered by philosophy graduates in attempting to earn a decent living. That is to say that a philosophy degree is not conducive to lucrative employment. None disagree with this.
Philosophy enhances critical thinking skills, which are arguably highly desirable assets for solving all sorts of problems in life. In this sense, philosophy improves life by bringing with it a joy for thinking.
However, inasmuch as it can be said that ignorance is bliss, thinking skills interfere with happiness. This would certainly result in diminished satisfaction with life.
Furthermore, (faulty) thinking is a necessary ingredient for many mental health issues. This, too, can make for a decreased level of functionality and a miserable existence.
On balance, philosophy is harmful.