Philosophy is either a tool or a toy

“[Philosophy] is always one of two things; it is either a tool or a toy.” –GK Chesterton, modified


The original quote was speaking of science, but I think nearly every field of human study can be divided so. Doesn't experience teach us this? Everything we studied in school or elsewhere has either a practical lesson we can apply in our daily lives or it doesn't. This is not to denigrate that which doesn't, toys are often a lot of fun.

A lot of modern self improvement literature focuses on fulfilling desires that are universal among humanity, and it is comforting to know that our ancestors also had strategies and beliefs that helped them to navigate these oceans of desire. When you study the history of "practical" philosophy you find that every thirst in the human heart has been addressed by our ancestors, and that their strategies have a track record of success that spans centuries. You'll find answers that have more depth than most self improvement out there and can make you happier, stronger, and of better character.