I start this post with a relevant question: Can one confidently say that with the increase of scientific and technological knowledge we are getting closer to wisdom?

As Bertrand Russell writes in his short essay Knowledge and Wisdom, purposeful knowledge without the prudence of wisdom can lead, inadvertently, toward a final, and perhaps not desired, outcome that one can call ‘evil’.

Russell further states that if we as a progressive world wish to avoid evil actions because of our thirst for knowledge, we would do well to also impart the teaching of wisdom, and to encourage everyone to embrace open-mindedness and impartiality in their use of this knowledge.

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The following quote has been an inspiration for me to embrace philosophy as guidance for my own self-improvement in life.  It has also influenced me to reflect on my own life with sincerity and frankness, whilst exploring deep down into my mind trying to find any sort of wisdom that I can learn from.

Being both resonant and moving, Bertrand Russell’s self-reflection of his life and insightful words has given me renewed optimism in the human spirit despite the ignorance scattered amongst humanity.

I can only hope that the next generation can put reason at the forefront of every world problem and be as wise as was old Bertrand.

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Enter philosopher, Bertrand Russell to define what philosophy meant to him during an interview with another British philosopher and writer, Alan Watts.

The following audio interview is in four parts:

Alan Watts – Bertrand Russell Interview (1 of 4)

Alan Watts – Bertrand Russell Interview (2 of 4)

Alan Watts – Bertrand Russell Interview (3 of 4)

Alan Watts – Bertrand Russell Interview (4 of 4)

What does philosophy mean to you?

You don’t need to be an aristocrat to answer – just don’t forget your pipe and to wear an austere countenance when doing so, because one must be taken as seriously as Russell when answering such an earnest question.