Questão 23 - UERJ 2 Exame 2026

The critical importance of philosophy in contemporary life

 

In an age dominated by rapid technological advances and shifting social paradigms, philosophy often finds
itself sidelined in favor of more immediate and practical concerns. In fact, it’s often criticized as society
has a tendency to view it as of little service today. Yet, its role in contemporary life is not just essential but
transformative. 

[5] One of the most significant roles philosophy plays in our lives is in the search for meaning. Modern life, with
its pace and distractions, often leaves individuals feeling disconnected or uncertain about their purpose.
Here, philosophy offers a roadmap. Philosophers like Søren Kierkegaard and Jean-Paul Sartre tackled
questions of existential meaning, reminding us that our lives have significance only insofar as we define
it for ourselves. Whether through Stoicism’s emphasis on control or existentialism’s focus on freedom,
[10] philosophy provides tools to help us navigate this fundamental question in life. Philosophy is not merely
a theoretical discipline; it is a vital tool for navigating the complexities of modern existence. Thus, from
refining personal beliefs to sharpening our critical thinking, philosophy encompasses different areas,
providing a basis for addressing the issues that shape our lives.

Critical thinking - the ability to analyze and evaluate information, ideas, and arguments - is perhaps one
[15] of the most valuable skills philosophy can offer. In today’s world, where information is abundant but often
contradictory or misleading, philosophy trains us to think deeply and logically. This is especially important
nowadays, as we live in an age of social media and instant communication, and emotional appeals are seen
as more relevant than rational discourse.

Ethics, a key area of philosophy, goes hand-in-hand with critical thinking. Philosophy’s engagement with
[20] moral questions forces us to confront the complexities of right and wrong. Philosophy challenges us to
examine the principles behind our judgments, helping us make informed, consistent, and fair decisions. This
is particularly important in a multicultural society where ethical norms may vary. Moreover, philosophical
reasoning provides intellectual tools to engage with moral issues and resolve them thoughtfully, making it
an indispensable skill in both personal and professional life.

[25] Actually, the modern world faces many moral challenges that transcend national borders, such as
refugee rights, climate justice, and the ethics of global trade. Eventually, philosophers have contributed
significantly to understanding these global issues, reminding us of our shared humanity and responsibility.
By drawing on philosophical insights from diverse traditions, we can develop a more inclusive and ethical
approach to global challenges.

[30] All in all, philosophy may seem like an abstract or outdated discipline in the face of contemporary questions,
but it remains an important tool for our existence. It doesn’t just address abstract issues; it is practical in
helping us deal with personal struggles. The Stoic philosophers, for example, developed techniques for
handling life’s challenges with resilience and composure. They taught us that suffering is a part of life, but
how we respond to it is within our control. The Roman philosopher Cicero acknowledges this when he
[35] says, “There is, I assure you, a medical art for the soul. It is philosophy, whose aid need not be sought, as in
bodily diseases, from outside ourselves. We must endeavour with all our resources and all our strength to
become capable of doctoring ourselves.”

Adaptado de philosophy.institute.

The theme of the article is the importance of philosophy in people’s daily lives.

 

To address this importance, the following strategy is used: