Module 11

Question 1

the mind/body problem

Answer 1

a problem in metaphysics that stems from the position of vulgar realism. Vulgar realism suggests that we have a physical body, we have a non-physical mind, and that our minds control our bodies. However, cause and effect relations seem to occur solely between physical things. Given these conditions, the mind/body problem is thus crystallized in the following question: How can a non-physical mind interact causally with a physical body? All proposed solutions have recognized philosophical shortcomings.

Question 2

polymath

Answer 2

Someone who has contributed to multiple fields of knowledge

Question 3

irenicism

Answer 3

During the life of Leibniz irenicism was focused on reconciling differences between Roman Catholic theology and Protestant theology

Question 4

divine revelation

Answer 4

In theory, divine revelation is information (“truth”) that has ostensibly been revealed to humankind by God (or some other supernatural entity).

Question 5

theism

Answer 5

1. Believing in gods existence.
2. Believing in the occurrence of divine revelation

Question 6

deism

Answer 6

1. Believing in god
2. Believing divine revelation did not occur

Question 7

atheism

Answer 7

Not believing in god or divine revelation

Question 8

agnosticism

Answer 8

Believing the best position to take is neither, god doesn’t exist and god does exist, since we have no proof of either.

Question 9

Leibniz, Gottfried (1646-1716)

Answer 9

In terms of philosophy specifically, Leibniz was a rationalist whose philosophical concerns included causal relations, the mind/body problem, the problem of evil, and Irenicism. His most well-known ideas in philosophy include his metaphysical notion of monads, his principle of sufficient reason, and his argument that our world is “the best of all possible worlds”. Leibniz’s philosophical views were considered peculiar by his contemporaries.