Analysis of The Problems of Philosophy by Bertrand Russel

A discussion of truth and epistemological theory is what The Problems of Philosophy deliberates. Using analytical methods, Bertrand Russel makes distinctions regarding society’s judgements about reality. Employing Cartesian radical doubts within the introduction, Bertrand Russel concentrates on society’s knowledge of the physical world. Bertrand shares those convictions about the table in his room, how he understands by his convictions and what kind of thing is the table for Bertrand. He notes that his table comprises of matter and that there is a way of possessing knowledge of it. Bertrand says to see his table involves an awareness of something, a brown patch which is oval and which he calls 'sense-datum.' Afterwards, the sense-data is to be regarded as a sign of the existence of physical objects and from the experience, to get to the physical world society practices a rational process of inference.

Contrasting idealism, Bertrand justifies the reality of particular and universals using a view stating what is known to exist, must also be in a sense something mental. Universals are used to epitomize particulars which are tangible things and are in a single place at a single time. Universals are characteristics such as whiteness or relationships which allow Russell to have causality, temporal and spatial relations. Nevertheless, while idealists are worried about the majority of things, Russel claims that they equate the 'object' of the sense-datum with the 'act' of sensation. Russell believes he knows his patch-of-sense data by knowledge and his table, an important physical object by description. This differentiates knowledge by description and knowledge by acquaintance. He states that we only learn our sense-data automatically, and so we have direct knowledge. There are two types of terminology used in the theory of descriptions used for an object, their name and definite definitions. Earlier Russell's primary example is 'Bismarck' or 'The first German Empire Chancellor.' By using definitions we will identify and appreciate things that we do not recognise enabling us to have indirect knowledge of things. Through the theory of truths, Russel supports our natural tendencies and discusses intuitions. Thus, facts, propositions, and finally complexes containing universals with particulars are the logical construction intrinsic to Russel’s theory. There are truths that we usually think about — they are outside of human consciousness. Ideas, particulars and universals are connected in ideas through proposals which is an indication of a complex philosophical concept of significance. The use of propositions typically incorporates statements regarding objects and connections between them. If it is properly structured with particulars and universals, a proposition will constitute knowledge. That sort of relationship is obvious from Russell, but it can be complicated in technical terms. Under Russell's philosophy, a real proposition is a relationship between a belief and a truth.

Within the book, there is an apparent theme often providing an important account of priori knowledge. Russel is in support of a platonic approach to universals that are more like platonic 'ideas.' He additionally states, there is potential not having any grasp of a single instance of a universal while at the same time being acquainted with that very universal. In-turn, making the priori knowledge understandable to that very individual. Additionally, Russel argues along with our own experience from knowledge, we can also have general principles which tend to be of the same degree of certainty. The Problems of Philosophy by Russel Bertrand overviews the great achievements of philosophy. He analyses and responds with his own set of differences and apparatuses critically to older arguments. Nevertheless, the nature of the arguments Russel proposes which emerge is common and what we are involved in and learn about life is eternal. In this novel, there is a platform for direct discussion and response by Russell's conversation being the only character in the debate while he changes his tone between the curious street man and educated philosopher. Russell uses a mouthpiece to ease the challenging changes around ideas and to subject them repeatedly to a critical voice. Russel encourages a systematic approach to challenge the study of theory, which frames a great deal of the debate. The chapters within the novel expand on previous ideas and plans for further ideas to better enhance our everyday lives. So, the development in his debate which is a very profound conversation, should be followed along in order and which is why I think all students should read this novel.

The book offers a vibrant and timeless classic of one of philosophy's greatest introductions both to students and scholars, as well as to the general public. Students and younger people in general lack direction and would greatly benefit from taking a read and deeper delve into this book. Especially in this day and age where depression is no longer thought of as a 'older person' ailment, many students struggle with mental health with the advent of social media causing self-esteem issues, philosophy can be a healthy remedy and start to a better life. In a study recently conducted by the Davenee Foundation, among Americans under 21, suicide is sixth among all suicides, and college students are number two as symptoms of depression could have an onset with the age as young as 15. Helping develop the idea of philosophy, moral compass and general outlook in life could greatly help many younger people who struggle and are lost within life. Although this book is no magical pill or be all end all solution, it is a start to a greater picture for the betterment of students and their philosophy in life which can aid in mental health struggles.