"می‌خواهی یک فیلسوف باشی نه یک حکیم ارزان."

Aiming to be a philosopher rather than just a cheap sage centers on the idea of depth versus superficiality. It’s about striving for genuine wisdom and understanding, rather than settling for shallow, easy answers. Philosophers dive deep; they question, they analyze, they seek to understand the underlying principles that govern thoughts and actions. Cheap sages, on the other hand, might offer pithy sayings or overly simplistic advice that sounds good on the surface but lacks real substance when you dig into it.

This concept has historical roots in the traditions of ancient philosophers like Socrates and Plato, who encouraged deep thinking and self-examination. They didn’t just offer quick fixes; they engaged in dialogues that made people question their beliefs and assumptions. The ‘cheap sage’ approach, by contrast, might be seen in the form of fortune cookie wisdom or those inspirational quotes you find on social media that are catchy but don’t really stick with you because they lack depth.

Imagine you're at work and facing a tough decision—maybe a big career move. A cheap sage might say, "Follow your heart." That's nice and all, but what does it really mean? It doesn't help you weigh the pros and cons, consider the long-term implications, or think about your skills and passions. A philosopher, however, would ask probing questions: What are your core values? How does this decision align with your long-term goals? What are the potential risks and rewards? They encourage you to think deeply and critically about the situation.

So, how can you apply this wisdom in your life? Start by questioning things more deeply. When faced with a problem or decision, don't just settle for the first easy answer that comes to mind. Ask yourself why—repeatedly. Why do you feel this way? Why might this be the best course of action? Think about the bigger picture and the underlying principles involved. Engage in conversations that challenge your viewpoints and be willing to revise your opinions based on new insights.

Here’s a story to bring it home: Picture this. You're at a crossroads in your personal life, trying to decide whether to stay in a relationship that’s going through a rough patch or to move on. A cheap sage might say, "If it's meant to be, it will be." But what does that really tell you? Not much. Now, imagine talking to a friend who embodies the philosopher’s mindset. They might ask, "What do you value most in a partnership? How have you and your partner addressed conflicts in the past? What have you learned about yourself through this relationship?" These are the questions that guide you to a deeper understanding of your situation and help you make a more informed decision.

Life is full of moments where we can either scratch the surface or dig deep. Being a philosopher means choosing the latter. It’s about cultivating a mindset that values depth, curiosity, and a relentless pursuit of truth. So next time you're tempted by a quick, easy answer, take a step back. Ask yourself the tough questions. Dive deep. You'll find that the insights you gain are much more valuable and lasting.