In this piece, Bertrand Russell asks a question on the nature of philosophy, asking what is the value of philosophical study itself? Russell recognizes that many are quick to discount philosphy and its methods of inquiry on the basis that it cannot turn up any real world, practically true conclusions . Russell's position, however, is that judgments of this manner are premature and that underneath them is in fact a misunderstanding of the goal of philosophical inquiry.
Russell holds that philosophy is distinct from the natural sciences in terms of what is their utility. The value in studying the natural sciences is that their findings result in practical application that is universal for everyone. Yet the same cannot be said for philosophy. For Russell, the value of philosophy is not in universal applicability but in its internal benefits to the student herself. Philosophy's goal is knowledge, but a certain kind of knowledge that is distinct from the other branches of the sciences. Hence, by implication, the primary benefit of the study of philosophy is the attainment of this certain specific kind of knowledge that results from philsophical study. What is interesting in Russell's argument at this point is that he admits readily that philosophy has resulted in very little knowledge production that is definite and confirmed. He even admits that it is not likely philosophy ever will yield such definite knowledge. Philosophy does not remain valuable even in spite of the lack of certainty it produces, however. Philosophy's locus of value lies directly within and from the this uncertainty. Contemplating such questions in fact results in much good for the mind and consciousness. It enforces a sense of imagination and exploration in the student who is willing to explore new regions in the intellect. Pursuit of philosophy also reduces the likeliness for dogmatic thought, as it enforces the thinker to confront any and all objections in thinking through a given issue. This ability to think critically is the locus of power which has applicability across all domains of life.
References
Russell, B. (2001). The problems of philosophy. OUP Oxford.:89-94.
