Overview Flashcards
(29 cards)
What is the origin of the term ‘Philosophy’?
Greek term Philia + Sophia (Love and wisdom)
Philosophy relates to intelligence expressed in various domains like politics, business, and human relations.
What are the main branches of philosophy?
- Metaphysics – nature of reality
- Epistemology - nature and scope of knowledge
- Value Theory:
- Ethics - studies and evaluates human conduct (morals)
- Aesthetic – studies the nature of beauty
Value Theory encompasses both ethics and aesthetics.
List three importance of philosophy to students.
- Critical thinking skills
- Communication skills
- Broader Perspective
Philosophy encourages questioning assumptions and helps articulate thoughts clearly.
When did philosophy begin?
Arose in Ancient Greece around 6th Century BCE
This period marked the rise of reason and logic in seeking knowledge.
Who were the Pre-Socratic philosophers?
- Thales
- Anaximander
- Pythagoras
They explored the nature of the universe and its origins.
What was Socrates known for?
Emphasis on Ethics and Self-knowledge
Socrates was a teacher of Plato.
What is Plato’s Theory of Forms?
The physical world is not as real as the non-physical, timeless, and absolute forms
This theory suggests that reality can only be accessed through logical, mathematical, and scientific explanations.
What contributions did Aristotle make to philosophy?
Contributions to logic, metaphysics, and Ethics
Aristotle was a student of Plato.
What does Stoicism emphasize?
Virtue, reason, and acceptance of fate
Stoicism promotes detachment from the external world and values gratitude.
What is the focus of Epicureanism?
Pleasure as the ultimate good, encouraging a life of moderation and tranquility
Epicureanism emphasizes natural and necessary desires.
What is Skepticism in philosophy?
The attitude of questioning or doubting something, especially when there’s insufficient evidence
It includes the method of suspending judgment when evaluating claims.
Who was St. Augustine?
A philosopher who combined Christian Theology with Platonic Philosophy
He related to the nature of God and the idea of unchanging Forms.
What is Scholasticism?
A system of philosophical inquiry based on reason and faith
Developed by Thomas Aquinas, it aimed to reconcile Christian Theology.
What did the Renaissance emphasize in philosophy?
Human potential and the value of individual experience
It marked a shift towards Rationalism and Empiricism.
What is Rationalism?
Stresses the power of Reason and logic in understanding the world
It suggests opinions and actions should be based on reason rather than beliefs or emotions.
What does Empiricism emphasize?
The importance of observation and experience
Empiricism plays a significant role in scientific methods.
What characterizes the Enlightenment period?
A period of intellectual and scientific progress
It involved the rejection of traditional religious and political ideas in favor of rationalism.
What is Idealism in the 19th century?
Ideas and concepts are the essence of reality
This philosophical perspective prioritizes mental constructs over material reality.
What defines Existentialism?
The belief that individuals are responsible for creating their own purpose and meaning in life
It emphasizes personal freedom and choice without reliance on authority.
What is contemporary philosophy?
Philosophical thought that emerged primarily in the late 19th century and continues today
It includes movements like existentialism, phenomenology, and analytic philosophy.
What does epistemology study?
The origin, nature, and limits of knowledge
It encompasses theories of truth including correspondence, coherence, and pragmatic theories.
What are the foundations of morality explored in ethics?
What is right and wrong?
Ethical theories provide different perspectives on living a moral life.
Name three ethical theories.
- Utilitarianism
- Deontology
- Virtue ethics
Each theory offers a unique approach to moral reasoning.
What is theism?
The belief that the god or gods are the cause of the world
It contrasts with atheism and deism.
