Branches of Philosophy

Study Notes

Philosophy encompasses two main categories: Pure Philosophy and Applied Philosophy.
Pure Philosophy focuses on the nature of the mind, providing theories to understand natural phenomena.
Applied Philosophy examines social institutions based on theories from Pure Philosophy.

Metaphysics:
- Studies existence and essence (Being per se).
- Derived from Greek words: "meta" (beyond) and "physikon" (physical universe).
- Links with the Doctrine of Hylemorphism, which discusses form and matter.
Ontology:
- A subbranch of Metaphysics studying the nature of beings (possible and actual).
Theodicy:
- Examines the justice of God (from Greek "theos" for God and "dike" for justice).
- Focuses on the truth regarding God's nature rather than punitive justice.
Epistemology:
- Investigates the nature of knowledge: its formation, verification, and retention.
Cosmology:
- Studies the universe as an orderly, intelligent system affecting societal values and structures.
- Explores concepts of space, time, motion, and causality.
Psychology:
- One of the oldest branches, focusing on human nature and the mind.
- Originated from Socratic thought emphasizing self-examination ("know Thyself").
- Distinguishes between philosophical psychology (theoretical) and clinical psychology (physiological basis of behavior).

Aimed at improving perceptions and enriching lives through deeper understanding.
Includes Aesthetics, Social Philosophy, Semantics, Logic, and Ethics.

Aesthetics:
- Deals with the appreciation of beauty in all forms, not limited to the arts.
- Originates from "aestetikon," meaning an expert in standards of beauty.
- Defined as the science of beauty; emphasizes that beauty is a subjective experience projected by individuals.

Theoretical branches enhance cognitive appreciation while practical branches foster a richer perspective on life.
Philosophy aims to understand both the essence of existence and the structure of human experiences.