There are many ways to describe and perceive philosophy. In its essence, it is simply thinking and contemplating things, usually in a deeper way than everyday thinking. Although it is a complex topic, we have some fairly straightforward questions about philosophy for beginners. This speaking activity is meant for ESL learners and high school students; the topics of religion and politics have tried to be avoided.
For English language learners, the most difficult terms in this exercise include – beliefs, contemplate, nihilist, embrace, fascinating, outlook, and stoicism. For those who are unsure, the picture in the top left corner of the free PDF is of a statue of Leonardo Da Vinci.
The philosophy questions for discussion are –
1 – What are 5 things that you associate with the word philosophy?
2 – What would you say is the difference between a religion and a philosophy?
3 – Do you have any philosophical beliefs that you try to live by? What are they?
4 – Who are some famous philosophers that you know of? What do/did they talk about?
5 – How would you describe philosophy to a person who did not understand the word?
6 – Why do you think that people philosophise? Do you often contemplate life in general?
7 – Do you think it is better to philosophise or try not to think too much?
8 – How would you say that Western philosophy is different from Eastern philosophy?
9 – What does it mean to be a nihilist? Could you embrace this way of living/philosophy?
10- Has there ever been an event that changed how you see life or the world in general?
11- Are there any famous philosophers from your home country? Why are they famous?
12- What kind of music would you listen to if you wanted to think deeply about things?
13- Do you believe that philosophy can be dangerous? If so, in what ways?
14- What would you say is the best way to go about living life? Why do you think so?
15- What kinds of abilities would a person need to become a full-time philosopher?
16- Do you think that any animals ever philosophise? What would they think about?
17- Have your views on life changed as you have gotten older? In what ways?
18- Do you ever contemplate your dreams and wonder if they have meaning?
19- What is a kind of philosophy that you think is fascinating and why?
20- Some people live with the idea that the world will end soon. What do you think?
21- What kinds of things do you think about the most? Why do you think this is so?
22- Do your friends and family have the same outlook on life as you? In what ways?
23- What is the most interesting philosophical book that you have ever read?
24- Do you know what stoicism is? How would you define it?
25- Do you know of any ancient Greek or Roman philosophers? What are they known for?
