How Philosophers Think in the Age of Social Media

How Philosophers Think in the Age of Social Media

Introduction:

In David Perell's article on how philosophers think, he emphasizes the importance of intellectual exploration and rigorous thinking. Philosophers understand that true understanding comes not from memorization, but from delving deep into the reasons behind an idea's specific form. They engage in intellectual battles, pitting ideas against each other to arrive at the truth. This kind of thinking is in stark contrast to the fast-paced, conclusion-jumping mindset often found on social media platforms.

The Influence of Culture and Fashionable Thinking:

Perell draws an interesting parallel between ideas and clothing, stating that both change with time and are influenced by the actions of others. It is easy to fall into the trap of fashionable thinking when we hastily jump to conclusions without fully examining different perspectives. We tend to adopt beliefs that are popular and widely exposed, but popularity does not equate to correctness. Just like the secret menu at In-N-Out Burger, the best options are not always advertised. To discover the truth, we must venture outside the spotlight of popular opinion.

The Power of Collective Learning:

Humanity's success lies in our ability to engage in collective learning. As Perell notes, social learning is our primary advantage over primates. By outsourcing knowledge to the tribe, we have become smarter across generations. This is similar to the concept of collective learning, as humans have continually built upon the knowledge and discoveries of those who came before them. It is through collective learning that we have progressed as a society.

Challenging Frames and Embracing Intellectual Grace:

Philosophers understand that every idea is packaged within an implicit frame. To truly understand an idea, it is crucial to critique the premise, or frame, rather than focusing solely on the conclusion. This requires embracing intellectual grace and approaching ideas with an open mind. Instead of seeking out ways in which someone may be wrong, it is more productive to ask, "What can this person teach me?" By holding opposing ideas in mind and remaining open to different perspectives, we can expand our capacity to find truth.

The Pitfalls of Social Media and the Pursuit of Likeability:

As we delve into the realm of social media predictions for 2021, it becomes evident that the medium has transformed many individuals into public relations professionals seeking likeability rather than truth. The rise of censorship on platforms such as Twitter, alongside the emergence of platforms like Parler with less censorship, highlights the dichotomy of free expression versus regulation. However, the pursuit of likeability often leads to distorted information and a lack of intellectual rigor.