Special closing lesson 13

Question 1

Ontology

Answer 1

The branch of metaphysics dealing with the nature of being.

Question 2

Epistemology

Answer 2

The theory of knowledge, especially with regard to its methods and validity.

Question 3

Teleology

Answer 3

Explanation of phenomena by the purpose they serve rather than by postulated causes.

Question 4

Dialectic

Answer 4

A method of argument involving contradiction and reconciliation (esp. Hegelian).

Question 5

Axiomatic

Answer 5

Self-evident or unquestionable; based on accepted principles.

Question 6

Apodictic

Answer 6

Clearly established or beyond dispute.

Question 7

Emergent

Answer 7

Arising unexpectedly or as a result of complex systems.

Question 8

Paradigm

Answer 8

A typical example or model of something; a framework of thought.

Question 9

Determinism

Answer 9

The belief that all events are determined by existing causes.

Question 10

Nominalism

Answer 10

The doctrine that universals or general ideas are mere names without corresponding reality.

Question 11

Cognitive dissonance

Answer 11

The mental discomfort from holding conflicting beliefs or values.

Question 12

Neuroticism

Answer 12

A personality trait involving anxiety, fear, and emotional instability.

Question 13

Psyche

Answer 13

The human soul, mind, or spirit.

Question 14

Disposition

Answer 14

A person’s inherent qualities of mind and character.

Question 15

Resilience

Answer 15

The capacity to recover quickly from difficulties.

Question 16

Catharsis

Answer 16

Emotional release, often through art or drama, providing relief.

Question 17

Projection

Answer 17

A psychological defense mechanism where one attributes their own thoughts to others.

Question 18

Sublimation

Answer 18

Channeling unacceptable impulses into socially acceptable actions.

Question 19

Agency

Answer 19

The capacity of individuals to act independently and make choices.

Question 20

Tautology

Answer 20

A statement that is true by necessity or by its logical form.

Question 21

Non sequitur

Answer 21

A conclusion that does not logically follow from the previous argument.

Question 22

Straw man

Answer 22

A misrepresentation of someone’s argument to make it easier to attack.

Question 23

Reductio ad absurdum

Answer 23

Disproving a proposition by showing it leads to absurd conclusions.

Question 24

Equivocation

Answer 24

Using ambiguous language to conceal the truth or avoid commitment.

Question 25

Ad hominem

Answer 25

Attacking the person instead of addressing the argument.

Question 26

Cogent

Answer 26

Clear, logical, and convincing.

Question 27

Rhetoric

Answer 27

The art of persuasive speaking or writing.

Question 28

Discourse

Answer 28

Formal discussion on a topic, often lengthy and intellectual.

Question 29

Polemic

Answer 29

A strong verbal or written attack on someone or something.

Question 30

Laconic

Answer 30

Using very few words; concise to the point of seeming mysterious.

Question 31

Perfunctory

Answer 31

Carried out with minimal effort or reflection.

Question 32

Ineffable

Answer 32

Too great or extreme to be expressed in words.

Question 33

Eloquent

Answer 33

Fluent or persuasive in speaking or writing.

Question 34

Acerbic

Answer 34

Sharp and forthright (especially of a comment or style).

Question 35

Incisive

Answer 35

Intelligently analytical and clear-thinking.

Question 36

Dispassionate

Answer 36

Not influenced by strong emotion; impartial.

Question 37

Erudite

Answer 37

Having or showing great knowledge or learning.

Question 38

Lucid

Answer 38

Expressed clearly; easy to understand.

Question 39

Conciliatory

Answer 39

Intended to placate or pacify.

Question 40

Reconnaissance

Answer 40

military observation of a region to locate an enemy or ascertain strategic features.