I moderated a part of the closing session in which I asked the participants to summarize their impressions in a short sentence. This apeared to be a hard exercise for philosophers, used to elaborate on topics. Some bluntly refused the exercise. However, Descartes or Wittgenstein could summarize the core of their thinking in short statements, and also in consultation I think summarizing is an important competence of a counselor. The brainstorm evolved anyhow, and the impression emerged that philosophical practice is a philosophical life. It is not to be seen as a means to an end, but as a way to exemplify a philosophical life in interacting with the visitors of a practice, groups or society. Some fine examples of this were given for instance by Willi Fillinger from Switzerland in a presentation of his practice, but also in demonstrations of consultations by Oscar Brenifier and Neri Pollastri. In elaborations on the philosophical practice attempts were made to define the experience or the different forms of it. The concept of a philosophical community is important in this. The conference as such is a place to meet and exchange experiences. What experience lies behind or even in philosophical practice? This theme will be picked up in the next international conference on philosophical practice, hosted by the Dutch Association for Philosophical Practice. It is planned in 2010 in The Netherlands. I am looking forward to it.

Peter Harteloh, Ph.D.

Philosophical counselor

Rotterdam, The Netherlands.