#171. How To Improve Your Life Using Philosophy? - Scott Hershovitz

Practical Philosophy

Philosophy is not just an academic exercise but a practical tool for navigating everyday life. Scott Hershovitz emphasizes that philosophy is present in daily events, from football games to dinner table conversations, and encourages people to engage with these philosophical questions to enrich their lives 1. He believes that children are natural philosophers due to their innate curiosity and willingness to question the world around them 2.

The most interesting philosophy is actually not the professional philosophy. It's just like happening in the world around us.

--- Scott Hershovitz

Scott's book aims to inspire adults to recapture this childlike wonder and apply philosophical thinking to their own lives, challenging the notion that philosophy is only for academics 2.

   

Art of Swearing

Swearing, often seen as taboo, plays a significant role in communication and emotional expression. Scott Hershovitz explores the philosophical and social dimensions of swearing, noting that it can signal closeness in relationships and even reduce pain 3. He shares a humorous story about his editor's reaction to his use of profanity in his book, which led to a deeper exploration of why certain words are off-limits 4.

Of course I want my kids to learn to swear. What I want them to do is to learn the context in which it's appropriate to do it and the context in which it's not.

--- Scott Hershovitz

Scott argues that understanding the context and purpose of swearing can enrich our interactions and that everything in life, including swearing, can be a subject of philosophical inquiry 3.