The article narrates a graduate student's tumultuous relationship with philosophy, reflecting on their initial passion and the subsequent loss of motivation. Despite landing a prestigious academic position, they struggled to reignite their interest in philosophy. The author traces their early motivations back to Korea's competitive educational landscape, where the relentless pursuit of top universities often left students feeling oppressed and directionless. This context fueled their choice to study philosophy, driven by the belief that it could provide answers to societal issues. Ultimately, their journey in the Ph.D. program became a quest to rediscover that philosophical zeal.
For a long time, I had an almost obsessive affection for philosophy... I believed I had to be a philosopher.
The belief that getting into the most prestigious university was key to a successful life was deeply ingrained in Korean society.
I believed society was ill and that many people, including myself, were suffocating under this oppressive system.
My life in the graduate program became a journey to find motivation.
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