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One of the ways that examining our interpretations improves our lives is that expanding our world view will enrich our experience. The improvement of our lives is the ultimate goal of philisophical study (Russell). To reference Plato's allegory of the cave, the escapee has a much greater viewpoint than the slaves. This expanded view is a more accurate viewpoint and allows the escapee to better interpret the shadows of the cave (Schiller 200). Or to put it differently, "a soul attuned to the harmonies of the higher is the most capapable of dealing with the lower" (Schiller 200). So, while it is true that philosophy yields no physical invention, it is also true that it does improve our lives. There is value in the improvement to our lives that philosophical study yields. Our reality is shaped by our interpretations on our perceptions of the world around us. These interpretations are the beliefs, convictions and predjudices by which we decide how we act. Our actions then shape and form our lives and reality (Russell). Our interpretations of the world have a large impact on our reality so it is extremely important to examine them, even though it can be a very difficult task. Using the allegory of the cave again, "The cave dwellers abhor the light" (Schiller 198). This means that we are reluctant to leave our cave and look into the light. Looking into the light and adjusting to the new perspective that comes from examining our belief structure can even be painful. The huge benefits do make the discomfort worthwile. Philosophy is a science of speculating about our reality, examining our interpretations and attempting to improve upon them (Schacht 76). Improving on the interpretations that shape our reality will improve our reality. Therefore, Philosophy has a non-physical benefit of improving our reality. .
A major argument against philosophy is that it, "is on matter concerning which knowledge is impossible" (Russell).
