Introduction to Philosophy

Study Notes

Definition of Philosophy

Philosophy originates from the Greek words "philos" (love) and "sophia" (wisdom), meaning "love of wisdom."
Philosophers are individuals engaged in philosophical inquiry.

Ancient Greek Philosophers

Pythagoras: Mathematician and scientist known for the Pythagorean theorem.
Heraclitus: Philosopher who believed everything exists based on a higher order called "logos." Famous for stating, "No man ever steps in the same river twice."
Democritus: Early thinker who studied natural phenomena; first to propose the existence of atoms.
Diogenes of Sinope: Advocate for a simple, virtuous life; criticized notable philosophers and contributed to Cynicism and Stoicism.
Epicurus: Proposed a philosophy that sought happiness through wisdom and simple living, founding Epicureanism.
Socrates: Significant in ethics, renowned for the Socratic Method, emphasizing self-examination. Famous quotes include "I know that I do not know" and "The unexamined life is not worth living."
Plato: Socrates' student; his teachings laid the groundwork for Western philosophy, known for the Theory of Forms and founding the Academy.
Aristotle: Plato’s student emphasizing perception as the basis of knowledge; contributed to various fields including zoology and ethics.

Philosophical Traditions

Western Philosophy: More systematic and specialized in approach.
Eastern Philosophy: Emphasizes fluidity and social connections, valuing family and community.

Philosophical Framework

A framework encompasses one's views and beliefs regarding the world.
Internal Questions: Concern personal correctness and values.
External Questions: Challenge the underlying beliefs of individuals.

Branches of Philosophy

Aesthetic: Focuses on beauty.
Logic: Engages in reasoning.
Epistemology: Studies the nature of knowledge.
Ethics: Addresses moral dilemmas.
Political Philosophy: Examines justice, power, and citizen rights.
Metaphysics: Explores existence and reality.

Philosophy of the Human Person

A study area that interprets human existence from a philosophical perspective.

Thinking Approaches

Holistic Thinking: Views large-scale patterns; requires an open mindset.
Partial Thinking: Concentrates on specific issues or aspects.
Reflection: Involves examining one's thoughts and experiences.

Practical Uses of Philosophy

Promotes critical analysis of concepts, definitions, and problems.
Enhances problem-solving and decision-making skills.
A philosopher is an effective communicator, presenting ideas clearly.
Knowledge of philosophy encourages self-development.

Scientific Approach

In philosophical inquiry, a systematic investigation that follows specific steps.

Principles in Philosophy

First Cause/Highest Principle: Every situation has a starting point.
Principle of Identity: Affirmation of existence; "everything is what it is."
Principle of Non-Contradiction: A proposition cannot be true and false simultaneously.
Principle of Excluded Middle: A statement must either be true or false.

Methods of Philosophizing

Inquiry centers on truth, which is crucial for validity and acceptance.
Knowledge requires an accurate understanding of reality.
Propositions: Statements about reality that may possess truth.
Facts: Observable statements deemed to reflect reality.

Description

Explore the fundamental concepts of philosophy, including its definition and historical context. This quiz delves into the lives and contributions of ancient Greek philosophers such as Pythagoras, Heraclitus, and Democritus, shedding light on their ideas and teachings.