As none of you know, my uncle is a philosopher, although now he's retired. I'm not sure whether it is possible to stop being a philosopher, but insofar as it is possible to stop being one, he has stopped being one. No doubt he comes out with the odd sage line or two, but hopefully he can be forgiven that.
What, you may ask, is involved in the job of philosopher? It's a very good question, and I am uniquely placed to give you an answer. Obviously, there are few companies or institutions who feel the need to employ a philosopher - although I imagine there are quite a few football teams who should reconsider that position.
The exceptions to this rule are, of course, universities. Lancaster university has provided gainful employment for him for many years. He has also written several books on the subject, all of which I advise you to read - although I will not tell you his name.
I should add that his wife is lovely and a most delightful person, certainly as far as I can tell.
Maybe I will become a philosopher - it does run in the family...
'Running'...in that there is one already?
Posted by: Tim the Enchanter | January 09, 2007 at 12:41 PM
er...yes...my uncle...
I'm missing something here. I feel sure.
Posted by: AndyC | January 10, 2007 at 02:10 PM
Isn't philosophy just an excuse to pontificate about the world and its problems and sit around thinking?
Actually Andy, aren't you a philosopher already?
Posted by: Liz Curtis | January 11, 2007 at 04:45 PM
Yes - go for it, Andy - you are the double of that Socrates bloke.
Posted by: Jac | January 11, 2007 at 06:11 PM