Philosophy as Giver of Solace — Philosophical Counselling in the Service of Workers

Abstract

Unemployment is considered by many to be the biggest problem that we face today. This weighty issue obscures the state in which the overworked individual finds  himself. Extreme busyness stands in opposition to another’s lack of occupation and evokes much dissatisfaction, fear, fatigue, feelings of purposelessness and hopelessness. Unable to decide for himself what he will do in life and what will occupy his time, man senses that he is losing both, that they are slipping away as is also that particularity which identifies him with his work capabilities. Lately, a trend has been noted in the world which distinguishes man at his workplace as a worker and in his leisure time as a philosopher. During the week the philosopher is an overworked employee and on weekends a toiler. In other words, philosophers are abandoning their exclusiveness and academic circles in order to solve daily problems. Can philosophy provide therapy (L. Marinoff, G. Reale or Seneca), solace and consolation (A. de Botton) , counselling and an opportunity to begin anew (G.B. Achenbach) for the worker desirous of rest, leisure, creativity, contemplation and relaxation (J. Pieper) by teaching him to ask questions about life and by making him a protagonist of his own life? Or is applied philosophy merely more marketing story.