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Beyond the Armchair: Reassessing the Value of Philosophy in the Age of Instrumental Reason
Anna Georgiou
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DOI:10.17265/2159-5313/2026.03.007
KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
In contemporary societies shaped by scientific advancement, economic rationalism, and market-driven education, the value of philosophy is frequently questioned, often dismissed as impractical or irrelevant. This paper examines the continuing significance of philosophy beyond narrowly instrumental considerations, drawing on Bertrand Russell’s (2001) work “The Value of Philosophy”, which defends the discipline as a source of the “goods of the mind”—intellectual cultivation, critical reflection, and secular spiritual enrichment. The central research question guiding this study is: “What is the value of philosophy in an age dominated by instrumental reasoning, and how does Russell’s account address or fall short of contemporary scepticism regarding the value, relevance, and practical significance of philosophy?” To answer this, the paper proceeds in two parts. First, it reconstructs Russell’s conception of philosophy, highlighting his distinction between the practical man, who values only material outcomes, and the contemplative man, who recognizes philosophy’s internal benefits. Second, it critically evaluates Russell’s account while developing an extended perspective that situates philosophy’s value in its broader capacity to cultivate a holistic worldview, foster normative reflection, and influence society through ethical, civic, and cultural engagement. The paper advances the thesis that philosophy’s significance extends beyond personal intellectual enrichment to include its contribution to societal understanding, ethical deliberation, and public life. Its enduring value lies in its capacity to cultivate the mind, integrate knowledge across domains, and foster critical reflection. In doing so, philosophy also challenges instrumentalist assumptions and informs collective reasoning and social action. By reconciling Russell’s insights with contemporary concerns about instrumentalism, this study demonstrates that philosophy remains a vital discipline, simultaneously enriching individual understanding and shaping the moral and intellectual orientation of society.
Bertrand Russell, value of philosophy, instrumentalism, armchair philosophy, civic engagement
Anna Georgiou. (2026). Beyond the Armchair: Reassessing the Value of Philosophy in the Age of Instrumental Reason. Philosophy Study, May-June 2026, Vol. 16, No. 3, 260-268.
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