Philosophy Problem-Solving Methods Quiz

Rationalism is a theory that believes knowledge is based on pure reasoning without the benefit of any experience.

Empiricism is a theory that considers knowledge to be a priori.

Skepticism asserts that all knowledge is certain.

Determinism is a perspective regarding causality and agency.

Moral Philosophy seeks to apply and analyze concepts only in one specific culture.

Philosophers use systematic doubt to maintain a gullible attitude towards ideas and events.

Teleology focuses on the causes of events and phenomena.

Etiology deals with the ultimate causes of all things.

Ethics concerns itself with defining concepts and principles only, not governing reasoning and action.

Philosophy tackles the question of how one should live their life.

Analysis and Validity in Philosophy

Philosophical discussions focus on the validity and truthfulness of various ideas.
Debates among philosophers help refine and clarify concepts through dialogue.

Dialectic Method

Involves analyzing diverse ideas to formulate new perspectives using gathered information.

Problem-Solving Devices in Philosophy

Socratic Method: A questioning technique aimed at elucidating topics and clarifying personal views.
Axioms: Fundamental assumptions accepted in philosophical discourse to guide discussions (e.g., "existence exists").
Occam’s Razor: Principle stating that the simplest explanation with fewest assumptions is preferred.
Formal Logic: Systematic assessment of argument validity, utilizing syllogisms to connect statements logically.
Allegory: Imaginary scenarios used to exemplify philosophical problems and theories (e.g., "floating man" situation).

Practical Uses of Philosophy

Philosophy fosters critical analysis and interpretation of concepts and arguments.
Enhances problem-solving and decision-making skills in everyday life.
Philosophers develop effective communication skills to express ideas clearly.
Promotes wisdom and contributes to personal self-development.

Group Activity Instructions

Choose one problem-solving device (Socratic Method or Allegory) for application.
Create two real-life scenarios demonstrating the chosen method on manila paper.
Identify at least two advantages and disadvantages of using the selected problem-solving device.
Present findings to the larger group, with a time limit of three minutes per group.

Test your knowledge on the problem-solving devices used by philosophers, including the Socratic method, dialectic analysis, and engaging in argumentation and debate. Explore how varied ideas and perspectives are analyzed to formulate new views.