u/Appropriate-Cry-2252

One of the biggest questions people have about reading philosophy is: why read ideas that aren't even practical or relevant today?

Take Plato's Republic, for example. We already know that the kind of ideal state he describes isn't realistically possible. So what's the point of reading it?

The same goes for many other philosophical ideas that don't seem to make sense in today's world or fit our current reality.

And then there's another concern. Some philosophical ideas can push people into existential crises. For some, constantly questioning the meaning of life, morality, or reality can become emotionally overwhelming, and in vulnerable individuals it may even contribute to depression or suicidal thoughts. If that's the case, shouldn't people just stay away from these kinds of philosophies altogether?

So why should anyone read philosophy in the first place?

Sleeping routine is fucked up.

Whenever someone asks me what I think about life or what my purpose is, I rarely have a clear answer. It's not because I haven't thought about it, but because I seldom stop to reflect on such a profound question. Most of the time, I keep myself distracted by everyday life.

Over time, however, I've come to see life in this way: our purpose is to keep learning. We should constantly educate ourselves, explore the unknown, seek what is true, understand what is important, discover what is good, and learn everything a person can reasonably know during this temporary life.

Since life is mortal and our knowledge is always evolving, we must find a balance between flexibility and consistency. As we continue learning, our understanding of the world will inevitably change. If a new idea proves that one of our previous beliefs was mistaken, we should be humble and flexible enough to let go of the old belief and embrace the better one.

At the same time, we must remain consistent, patient, and disciplined in living according to our current convictions. Whatever we truly believe should be reflected in our actions. There should be no contradiction between what we say, what we believe, and how we live. To knowingly act against your own beliefs is perhaps the greatest lie a person can tell themselves.

It's a genuine question I'd like to ask. My friends often ask me, "Why do you read books when there are 'better' sources of information, like YouTube videos and documentaries?"

For those of you who enjoy reading, how do books help you in ways that videos can't? I'm genuinely curious to hear your perspective.

I wanna stay anonymous.

Life's honestly a mess. My relationships are toxic, I don't have any hobbies or interests anymore, and it feels like I'm just existing instead of actually living.

Every day is the same—boring repetitive, and draining. Nights are even worse because I can't sleep. I don't have friends, barely talk to anyone, and nothing in this world feels exciting or worth looking forward to. everything just feels empty. Sometimes I just wanna disappear and leave it all behind.