The Failures of Philosophy

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This work is the first to examine the historical failures of philosophy and the lessons they offer. Philosophers often overlook the broader collapses of philosophy itself, focusing instead on the shortcomings of individual theories, which are typically replaced by new ones. Throughout history, philosophy has faced significant breakdowns, sometimes being abandoned for centuries and later revived with new goals, often accompanied by dubious claims of continuity with past traditions. This investigation delves into the West's philosophical history, highlighting its most critical failures: attempts to define the good life, establish philosophy as a superior discipline, create a comprehensive theory of everything, and rationalize empirical and mathematical sciences. Stephen Gaukroger posits that these failures provide deeper insights into the nature and purpose of philosophical inquiry than its successes. They reveal how philosophical thought has evolved, the distinctive skills it claims to offer, and the reasons behind its reinventions. Ultimately, this account illustrates that the shortcomings of philosophy paradoxically underscore its most significant aspects.