Introduction to Philosophy

Introduction to Philosophy

• Philosophy is the science of all things or beings in their ultimate causes or principles acquired by the natural light of reason alone.
• Ancient Greece map is shown, illustrating regions and cities.

Branches of Philosophy

• Philosophy has branches, often categorized by the subject matter.
• A hierarchical structure of branches is shown.
• Branches include: metaphysics/ontology, cosmology, theodicy, philosophical psychology/rational psychology, aesthetics, logic, social philosophy, axiology, and epistemology.

Metaphysics

• Metaphysics explores the fundamental nature of reality, being, and existence.
• It considers the question of reality and being, and non-physical concepts like angels.

Cosmology

• Cosmology is the study of the origin, dynamics, and characteristics of the universe.
• It delves into the laws that govern the universe's order.

Theodicy

• Theodicy investigates the nature, being, goodness, and justice of God by reason alone.
• It considers the relationship between God and humanity and other doctrines relevant to divinity.

Philosophical or Rational Psychology

• Philosophical psychology examines the nature and operation of the mind (psyche), including the mind, soul, and spirit.

Logic

• Logic explores the nature and problems of correct thinking and reasoning.
• It seeks answers to questions about soundness, truth, and validity.

Aesthetics

• Aesthetics studies beauty and art, looking at man's creativity in creating and experiencing beauty.

Ethics

• Ethics explores the morality of human behavior, actions, and conducts.
• It addresses questions about right and wrong, examining morality's subjective nature.

Epistemology

• Epistemology explores questions about knowledge, considering its sources, extent, and reliability.
• It delves into the nature, origins, extent, and validity of knowledge.

Practice Quiz - Statements

• Question 1: It is better to suffer wrong than to inflict wrong on others.
• Question 2: Vampires exist only in movies and books.
• Question 3: Nobody can know whether a fetus is a person or simply a collection of cells.
• Question 4: A valid argument can have false premises.
• Question 5: Everything that exists is a physical object.
• Question 6: Paris is the most beautiful city in the world.
• Question 7: There are more rational numbers than irrational numbers.
• Question 8: Don't pursue a major that won't make you rich.
• Question 9: It is impossible to predict the future.
• Question 10: Your stories are, as so often, full of contradictions.