i thought philosophy was an exercise that any kind of thinking person can ask and ponder about. why, then, should it be classified under  "arts and humanities"
isn't philosophy more than that?
i understand that certain aspects of philosophy are about humans, but there are also other aspects such as metaphysics, which is somewhat more related to cosmology; thus philosophy covers a whole wide range of knowledge from many disciplines, not just those that relate to humans. shouldn't it deserve a topic by itself?

From what I see, I classify it along with religion under fantasy / fiction maybe even mythology. Almost a poetry.

No greater honor can it be given than to fall under humanities.  That is the study of creativity itself. I've often wondered why science shouldn't be included in the "humanities".

Cindi

Because, historically, philosophy is the one from which all the others split off (although of course that also applies to most of what's classified as science -- which, in turn, is why a particle physicist and a cultural anthoropologist will both be doctors of philosophy).

  Nfr

I always figured that it did because if you have a degree in it pretty much the only career choices are to teach, to write, or work in a factory. 

Seriously though, Cindi nailed it perfectly.

Quote from: Katia on June 14, 2007, 01:28:37 AM
i thought philosophy was an exercise that any kind of thinking person can ask and ponder about. why, then, should it be classified under  "arts and humanities"
isn't philosophy more than that?

Are we posing a hierarchy where "arts and humanities" are not at the top? Please clarify.

Quote from: None of the Above on June 14, 2007, 01:43:52 PM
Are we posing a hierarchy where "arts and humanities" are not at the top? Please clarify.

Nah, just actually living it! where "fantasy & Physchology" are at the top