Meaning: The quote "We have to make philosophy itself an object of philosophical concern" by Wilhelm Dilthey, a German historian, philosopher, and psychologist, encapsulates the idea of self-reflection within the field of philosophy. This concept urges philosophers to critically examine the nature, methods, and underlying assumptions of philosophy as a discipline. In essence, it calls for a meta-philosophical approach, where philosophers engage in introspection and critical analysis of their own philosophical inquiries.

Wilhelm Dilthey (1833–1911) was a prominent figure in the development of hermeneutics, the theory and methodology of interpretation, and he made significant contributions to the fields of philosophy, psychology, and the human sciences. His quote reflects his deep concern with the nature of philosophical inquiry and the need for continuous self-examination within the discipline.

The phrase "an object of philosophical concern" suggests that philosophy, which is typically concerned with the investigation of fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, values, reason, mind, and language, should also turn its attention inward. In other words, it should critically analyze its own foundations, methodologies, and presuppositions. This self-reflexive approach to philosophy acknowledges the evolving and dynamic nature of the discipline and emphasizes the importance of questioning and re-evaluating its own assumptions and practices.

Dilthey's call to make philosophy an object of philosophical concern aligns with the broader philosophical tradition of self-awareness and critical reflection. It echoes the Socratic dictum "know thyself," which has long been regarded as a fundamental principle of philosophical inquiry. By turning the lens of philosophical inquiry back onto itself, philosophers can gain a deeper understanding of the nature and limitations of their own discipline.

Moreover, Dilthey's perspective resonates with the postmodern and critical theory movements, which emphasize the examination of power dynamics, ideology, and language within philosophical discourse. By making philosophy itself an object of concern, philosophers can uncover and challenge the implicit biases, cultural influences, and historical contingencies that shape philosophical discourse and knowledge production.

In practical terms, this quote encourages philosophers to engage in critical reflection on the historical, cultural, and social contexts that inform their philosophical inquiries. It prompts them to interrogate the language, concepts, and theoretical frameworks they employ, recognizing that these are not neutral or universal, but are instead shaped by specific historical and cultural circumstances.

Furthermore, the quote highlights the need for philosophers to be conscious of the interdisciplinary nature of philosophical inquiry. It encourages dialogue and engagement with other fields such as psychology, sociology, anthropology, and history, recognizing that these disciplines can enrich and challenge traditional philosophical assumptions.

In conclusion, Wilhelm Dilthey's quote "We have to make philosophy itself an object of philosophical concern" encapsulates the call for a reflexive and critical approach to philosophical inquiry. By turning the lens of inquiry back onto itself, philosophers can gain a deeper understanding of the nature, methodologies, and assumptions of their own discipline. This self-reflexive stance aligns with broader philosophical traditions of self-awareness and critical reflection, and it encourages philosophers to interrogate the historical, cultural, and social contexts that shape their inquiries. Ultimately, Dilthey's quote underscores the dynamic and evolving nature of philosophy and the importance of continuous self-examination within the discipline.