Introduction to Philosophy: Lesson 1

Which Greek philosopher is known as the founder of the philosophy that nature developed from one source?

What does epistemology primarily investigate?

Which philosophical branch deals specifically with moral principles?

What did Pythagoras introduce as a fundamental aspect of reality?

How does Heraclitus view the nature of existence?

What term describes individuals who engage in philosophy?

Which of the following best describes aesthetics in philosophy?

What did Thales of Miletus believe regarding the underlying substance of reality?

What philosophical thought is Socrates most associated with?

Which philosopher is credited with formulating the concept that all existing entities are based on ideas or templates?

Who is known as the 'Father of Logic'?

Which philosopher is associated with the idea that matter consists of tiny particles called atoms?

In which philosophical framework did Epicurus advocate for happiness?

What method of inquiry is Plato known for that involves discussing opposing ideas?

What principle did René Descartes emphasize in modern philosophy?

What did Socrates use as a means to critically examine knowledge and beliefs?

Nature of Philosophy

Etymology: Derived from Greek words "Philos" (love) and "Sophia" (wisdom), meaning "Love of Wisdom."
Discipline using human reason to explore ultimate causes, reasons, and principles governing existence.

Core Branches of Philosophy

Metaphysics: Investigates reality and existence, focusing on the nature of being.
Epistemology: Examines knowledge, differentiating justified belief from mere opinion.
Ethics: Establishes moral principles, addressing acceptable vs. unacceptable actions.
Aesthetics: Concerns the nature and appreciation of art, beauty, and taste.
Logic: Studies correct reasoning and argument structure.

Beginnings of Philosophy

Philosophers: Individuals who engage in philosophy, termed "lovers of wisdom."
Origin of Western philosophy traced back to Ancient Greece.

Notable Early Philosophers

Thales of Miletus (624-546 BCE): First Western philosopher; proposed that all nature comes from a single source.
Pythagoras (570-495 BCE): Mathematician and scientist; linked reality to numbers, first to use the term philosophy.
Heraclitus (535-475 BCE): Emphasized change as constant; introduced the concept of logos as the order behind existence.
Democritus (460-370 BCE): Early theorist of atomism; studied natural phenomena.
Diogenes of Sinope (460-370 BCE): Advocated for simple living; influenced Cynicism and Stoicism.
Epicurus (341-270 BCE): Promoted philosophy as a path to happiness.

The Greek Triumvirate of Philosophy

Socrates (470-399 BCE): "Father of Western Philosophy"; known for the Socratic Method of questioning.
Plato (427-347 BCE): Student of Socrates; developed Theory of Forms, emphasizing ideas over physical reality; founded the Academy.
Aristotle (384-322 BCE): Attended the Academy; believed knowledge stems from sensory experience; recognized as the "Father of Logic."

Modern Philosophy

René Descartes (1596-1650): Known as the "Father of Modern Philosophy"; famous for the phrase emphasizing doubt as a means to establish certainty.

Explore the foundations of philosophy in this quiz, focusing on its meaning and method. Learn about the etymology of the term and its significance in the pursuit of wisdom. This lesson sets the stage for a deeper understanding of human thought and inquiry.