I think a man is most useful when he knows which philosophy to follow depending on the circumstances: a stoic when tragedy strikes, or an existentialist when given time to think.
He who designs his own philosophy after studying a multitude is worthy of having character.
But this is only possible once you’re informed of the many philosophies and their respective philosophers, allowing you to equip yourself with what is necessary at a moment’s notice.
Like a game of chess, or perhaps in the midst of warfare, strategies are used by those who have made an effort to study them; philosophy, I feel, is no different.