In her book "Plato at the Googleplex," Rebecca Goldstein argues that genuine philosophical inquiry requires challenging and potentially unsettling one’s established beliefs. She suggests that if philosophical thinking does not provoke discomfort or disrupt one’s preconceptions, it lacks value and depth. This perspective emphasizes the importance of embracing uncertainty and critical reflection as essential components of philosophical engagement.

Goldstein's assertion points to a fundamental aspect of philosophy: it is a discipline that thrives on questioning and reassessing one's understanding of the world. By insisting that philosophical thought must challenge settled minds, she underscores that true philosophical exploration can provoke transformative insights and foster intellectual growth, driving individuals to rethink their assumptions and engage more deeply with complex ideas.