Introduction to Philosophy

Definition of Philosophy

• Etymological Definition:
  • Comes from Greek words philia (love) and Sophia (wisdom)
  • Philosophy = Love of Wisdom
• Love = Strong desire for knowledge
• Wisdom = Correct application of knowledge
• Philosophy concerns the human desire to possess knowledge and apply it correctly.

Historical Context

• Ancient philosophers (e.g., Socrates, Gautama Buddha, Confucius) were often sages/wisemen.
• Philosophy is defined as a science studying beings, their ultimate causes, reasons, and principles through human reason alone.

Fundamental Questions in Philosophy

• What is the origin of the world?
• Why do things exist?
• Is there a God? How to justify God's goodness in the face of evil?
• What is the meaning and purpose of life?
• Is euthanasia morally right in cases of unbearable suffering?

Major Branches of Philosophy

Philosophy is divided into four major branches:

1. Metaphysics
2. Epistemology
3. Logic
4. Ethics

1. Metaphysics

• Etymology: Meta (beyond) + physica (physical) = Study of things beyond the physical.
• Studies concepts not experienced (e.g., God, freedom, soul).
• Considered the foundation of philosophy.

Subcategories of Metaphysics

• General Metaphysics (Ontology):
  • Studies being and existence; asks "What is being?" and "What is reality?"
• Special Metaphysics:
  • Cosmology: Study of the universe, its origin, and laws governing it.
  • Psychology: Study of the mind/soul; questions human nature, purpose of life, and afterlife.
  • Theodicy: Study of God and justification of God's goodness amid evil.

2. Epistemology

• Etymology: Episteme (knowledge) + logos (study) = Study of knowledge and justified belief.
• Analyzes nature of knowledge and its relationship to truth and belief.
• Key questions:
  • What is knowledge?
  • How is knowledge acquired?
  • What are the limits of knowledge?

3. Logic

• Etymology: Logos (study) = Science of correct thinking.
• Distinguishes good reasoning from bad.
• Key questions:
  • What makes an argument good or bad?
  • How to detect fallacies?
  • What are the criteria for argument validity?

4. Ethics

• Etymology: Ethos (custom) = Study of morality in human actions.
• Concerned with right conduct and the good life.
• Key questions:
  • What is right conduct?
  • How to determine right actions?
  • What constitutes a good life?

Conclusion

• Philosophy seeks to explore fundamental questions and understand human existence.
• Encouragement to subscribe for more discussions on philosophy.