My growing admiration for Philosophy

“If you were to be a real seeker about truth, it is necessary that at least once in your life you doubt, as far as possible, all things.” – Rene Descartes

At the start of my academic year I absolutely abhorred learning Philosophy. Now, I know that is a harsh word to use but, unfortunately I couldn't see past the old men with beards discussing whether the existence of god is necessary or the ethics behind a certain situation. It is only recently that I have found an admiration for the subject. I feel as if it has the capability to give me a perspective on things that I would have never thought of, which is something that I feel I need once in a while. Something that can challenge my beliefs as well as help me to develop as a person and learn to think logically. This is the subject that gave me the biggest confidence boost due to the extensive debating skills that are required (which I still haven’t completely acquired yet. Baby steps, baby steps) nevertheless, the fact that I am being put out of my comfort zone is something I appreciate.

Yes, as a Muslim I feel that I struggled to maintain some of my beliefs due to philosophers such Epicurus and J.L Mackie who suggested the 'problem of evil' and the 'inconsistent triad'. They argued that if god is traditionally omnipotent (all powerful), omniscient (all knowing) and omnibenevolent (all good) then how can it be possible that he exists if there is evil in the world? When I first heard this I thought it was a solid argument. 

However, the main reason to why I enjoy Philosophy is because there is not always a definitive answer. For example, if I were to produce a rebuttal I could say that without evil in the world we humans would not have the potential to have emotions such as compassion and empathy. To back up this point it would also be very useful to use a quote- “Allah does not place burden to a soul greater than it can bear” [Surah Al-Baqarah [2:286]]. Then again, if I were to offer a counter argument I could question: what have the people who are experiencing famine or disease done to deserve such great hardship?  And for this I'm going to let you make your own mind up.

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In short, philosophy is a beautiful and beneficial subject (you just need to give it a chance). Also, I would like to add that it is not a bad thing to question your beliefs; as long as you know where both your head and heart lie. It is absolutely normal.

Thank you for reading :)