This text examines the importance of engaging with other philosophers during the process of philosophical inquiry. The author argues that genuine philosophizing does not stem from mere historical erudition or conformity to existing systems. Instead, the most significant ideas are born from a state of tension with other thinkers. Two primary methods for achieving intellectual growth are discussed. The first involves agreeing with an external idea while seeking a degree of emancipation from it, allowing for a more authentic eventual confirmation. The second, more arduous path involves the systematic refutation of ideas one disagrees with, necessitating a deep immersion to ensure that valuable insights are not discarded along with the errors. Drawing on Emanuel Rádl, the author emphasizes that real thoughts originate from other real thoughts. The philosopher's task is to avoid becoming a mere epigone or an eclectic collector of fragments. By maintaining a critical distance from favored ideas and finding potential value in rejected ones, a thinker protects themselves from intellectual imitation and fosters true originality.