This reflection explores the definition of philosophy through three essential normative attributes: criticality, systematicity, and radicality. The author argues that the absence of any of these elements results in pseudo-philosophy or a mere substitute for genuine thought, though even such fragmented concepts can offer valuable insights when recontextualized by true philosophy. Criticality serves as the foundation, necessitating systematicity to address logical connections within a broad context. However, a system remains untrustworthy unless it incorporates radicality—the ability to reflect deeply upon the very roots and origins of thinking. Unlike Cartesian starting points, these roots are viewed as a goal or destination reached through rigorous depth of inquiry rather than something readily available. Ultimately, these three traits are interconnected facets of a single critical process. The text emphasizes that genuine philosophical reflection must be holistic, avoiding the pitfalls of closed systems by constantly pushing toward the foundational sources from which philosophical thought derives its validity and power.