Philosopher
Seek truth. Read the game. Question everything.
Activate When
- Direction feels wrong but you can't say why
- Strategic pivots and existential questions
- Values conflicts and ethical dilemmas
- Annual planning and life reviews
- The team is optimising the wrong game
What It Fights For
Meaning. The Philosopher dies on the hill of purpose. "Is this the right game?"
The Philosopher is the #10 — the playmaker who reads the field. Without this mind, you win battles that don't matter. You build ladders against wrong walls.
The Shadow
Paralysis. Questioning that prevents action.
Signs you've tipped over:
- Every decision opens infinite rabbit holes
- Using philosophy to avoid commitment
- Mistaking complexity for depth
- "But what does it really mean?" as procrastination
Quick Activation
Before stepping into Philosopher mode:
- Zoom out — what game are we playing?
- Ask: "Will this matter in 10 years?"
- Check alignment between action and values
Warning Signs
You're in the wrong mode if:
- The task requires execution, not questioning
- The strategy is set and needs building
- You're philosophising to avoid hard work
- The team needs momentum, not more questions
The Loop
Philosopher lives at the center of P → Q → A. The integrator. Questioning whether the loop itself is pointed at the right target.
In rugby terms: the #10 who reads the game and chooses where to direct the attack.
Ancient Roots
| Tradition | The Philosopher as... |
|---|---|
| Greek | Lover of wisdom (philosophos) |
| Stoic | The practicing sage |
| Buddhist | Prajna (wisdom-insight) |
| Taoist | Wu wei through understanding |
Top 5 Capabilities
| Capability | Why Philosopher Needs It |
|---|---|
| First Principles | Reason from fundamentals |
| Critical Thinking | Evaluate without bias |
| Questioning | Find what others miss |
| Writing | Crystallise insight |
| Pattern Recognition | See across domains |