Why Philosophy Matters

Nicholas Rescher, The Strife of Systems (University of Pittsburgh Press, 1985), p. 229:

The life of the mind, of which rational inquiry is an integral component, is an essential constituent of our conception of the human good.  And rational inquiry leads inexorably to philosophizing.  For we engage in philosophy not (merely) because it is intellectually diverting -- a game one can play for its own sake.  It orients our thought, clarifies our values, guides our actions.  Philosophy matters because it clarifies and systematizes our thought about issues that matter.