Provocation in Philosophical Practice

Challenging conventional notions of comfort and safety in philosophical practice, this article argues for the primacy of reason in the work to provoke and exercise thinking. Exercising thinking involves problematization and conceptualization of cherished ideas and attitudes. Consequently, philosophical consultations can be uncomfortable; rather than seeking to alleviate this discomfort, this article examines it directly. Assumptions that discomfort is harmful, consultation is dangerous, philosophers are therapists, or success is mandated are actively problematized. The authors appreciate the growth promoting role of discomfort, see the beauty of exercising the thinking capacity, and respect the thinking competence of all people. The authors propose that the purpose, priority, and goal of philosophical practice is the provocation of thinking, whereas other results are secondary. The authors detail the specific actions philosophers undertake—and refrain from—to be driven by this telos and address how secondary objectives can interfere with and distort this pursuit. By prioritizing reason, the authors advocate for the Socratic spirit, with its aesthetic, performative, and provocative nature. This stands in contrast to contemporary tendencies towards professional codes and generalized safety preoccupations preempting inquiry. Philosophical practice through the application of Socratic methods promotes freedom to develop and use wisdom.