Social Sciences in China (Chinese Edition)

No. 8, 2023

 

Philosophy: Knowledge or Wisdom?

(Abstract)

 

Chen Bo

 

“Is philosophy knowledge or wisdom?” This method of questioning seems to imply an incompatible choice. In fact, philosophy can and must combine knowledge and wisdom. Philosophy has always been regarded as “love of wisdom,” and it naturally pursues wisdom. Wisdom consists of at least four elements: good motivation, extensive knowledge, considered judgment, and sincere action. At the same time, philosophy is the pursuit of truth. According to traditional understanding, knowledge is beliefs that are justified because they are true. Therefore, philosophy also pursues knowledge, or the true understanding of nature, society, and human life. Although knowledge does not necessarily lead to wisdom, wisdom must be grounded on knowledge, since wisdom without knowledge is unimaginable. Wisdom also transcends knowledge, providing guidance for knowledge, transforming knowledge into wisdom, creating deposits that form a way of life, realizing it as an ideal character and sublimating it to the realm of human life. Philosophy is a form of learning that pursues both knowledge and wisdom, and it is precisely through the pursuit of knowledge that the striving for wisdom is realized. Philosophy is virtually a necessity for everyone’s survival and well-being.