It’s baked right into the word “philosophy.” Philos means love and sophia means wisdom. We’re meant to love asking big questions, and when we’re little, we really, really do. Somewhere along the way, however, our fondness for big questions fizzles into a bit of fear and trepidation. It’s really too bad, because asking big questions sparks the imagination, and encourages critical thought. Learning to answer big questions helps us to be patient, open-minded, divergent thinkers, and it also helps us grow into better listeners. In a strange, but useful way, philosophy loves us back.
So here’s our challenge for Valentines Day:
- Feed your little thinker’s love of big questions. Teach them to ask clear, focused, meaningful questions based on things that really pique their curiosity, and that are fun.
- Fall back in love with big questions yourself. It’s not only a great way to bond with your little thinker, but everyone can use a little practice at critical thinking.
To get you started, here are some Valentines-related philosophy questions to share:
- What’s the difference between liking something and loving it?
- Is it possible to love something and hate it at the same time? How does that work?
- Do people really lose their minds when they fall in love? Can we use our hearts and our minds at the same time?
- Do animals feel love? How do we know?
- Valentines are often heart-shaped, but is this the part of us that feels love?
Happy Valentine’s Day, everyone! May today, and every day, be full of hearts, flowers, and lots of beautiful big questions!