Fundamental Concepts and Principles of Philosophy

Functions of Philosophy

The question of the functions of philosophy pertains to the role it plays in human life and how philosophical knowledge can be utilized. Traditionally, three main functions of philosophy are identified: the worldview function, the methodological function, and the social function.

Modern science does not provide a precise definition of the term "worldview." In everyday understanding and philosophical literature, the concept of worldview is interpreted in various ways. Nevertheless, we can outline the following key characteristics of a worldview:

First, a worldview determines the direction of an individual’s life, their values, goals, and the meaning of life.

Second, a worldview encompasses a set of general views on the world in which one lives and defines one’s place within it.

Third, these views can be perceived not merely as knowledge about reality but as beliefs that have become convictions.

In both scientific and everyday contexts, there are several types of worldviews reflecting these characteristics differently. For instance, in primitive societies, a mythological worldview was prevalent. Today, a religious worldview is common, while an atheistic worldview has emerged in opposition to it. The quest to address fundamental worldview questions through science has led to the development of a scientific worldview.

An individual’s worldview is shaped by a variety of factors: education, upbringing, life experience, and so on. National and cultural characteristics also have a significant impact. Thus, the worldview of a person who lacks philosophical knowledge and the capacity for independent philosophical thought tends to be superficial and unsystematic. It is often characterized by narrow viewpoints and dogmatism.

Essentially, the worldview function of philosophy lies in its role as a means of expressing a worldview as a theory for addressing worldview issues.

The primary task of methodology is to explore and refine the methods used in a particular field of activity, assess their effectiveness, and determine their conditions of application. A method is a way of action. A collection of methods for any activity is called a methodology, and knowledge about methods and methodologies constitutes methodological knowledge. Methodology concerns knowledge about how to act to achieve a set task and what to guide one’s actions by. In this context, "how to act" refers to methods, while "what to guide by" encompasses everything necessary to act most effectively.

The methodological function of philosophy is defined by the fact that it provides the most general type of methodological knowledge, which can be applied across all areas of human activity. Philosophy here acts as a general methodology of activity, which personal methodologies of specific fields rely on.

In different areas of human activity, the methodological function of philosophy can manifest differently. In an individual's life, it may influence the choice of goals and behavioral strategies. In the arts, it may affect the development of artistic styles or the understanding of an artist’s own creative purpose. In scientific inquiry, philosophy is consulted to resolve issues of truth and falsity, what constitutes a scientific fact or law, and so forth. Therefore, a strong alliance between science and philosophy is crucial for the progress of scientific knowledge.

The social function of philosophy involves providing a unique perspective on the fundamental issues of social life and the prospects for societal development in each historical period. In the realm of philosophy, society seems to become aware of itself, its strengths, and its losses. In this context, an important task for philosophical thought is the analysis and critique of existing social reality. Philosophical thinking is necessary for forecasting changes in social conditions.

In any socially heterogeneous society, we can observe the processes of conflict between the interests and ambitions of various class groups, which come into opposition. Thus, philosophy, as a reflection of the societal life of an era, inevitably becomes a battleground for diverse ideological systems. It is within philosophical doctrines that the ideologies of different classes and social groups develop and are justified.