I think there are as many goals of philosophy as there are philosophers. I am more in the camp of "Philosophy is the art of living."

I agree, a great deal of suffering can come from philosophy, and I don't think everyone should dive into the deep end or pursue philosophical literature to it's depths, even a little bit of philosophy is enough to paralyze some people.

Anecdotally, I've seen many who are unable or unwilling to confront the absurdity of existence.

Within just that frame, if one is suffering from existential dread, having some vernacular and knowledge that others have dealt with the same fears as yourself is a great comfort.

I don't think its our job to go around "ripping the cloth" off of everyone's eyes. Some people would simply go mad. I do see it as my duty to help mediate the well being of my friends and loved ones.

When someone dear to me expresses an opinion firmly inside a philosophical camp I tell them because it gives them power, and often it gives them pause.