Philosophy Key Figures and Concepts: Ethics, Reality, and Human Nature, Introduction to Philosophy: Key Questions, Thinkers, and Exercises

Socrates

Ethics, questioning assumptions

Plato

Ideal forms, justice, reality vs appearance

Aristotle

Logic, virtue ethics, empirical observation

René Descartes

Rationalism, doubt, mind-body problem

Immanuel Kant

Morality based on duty, categorical imperative

John Locke

Empiricism, social contract, human rights

Thomas Hobbes

Social contract, human nature as self-interested

Friedrich Nietzsche

Individualism, morality critique, 'will to power'

Jean-Jacques Rousseau

Social contract, general will, education

Confucius

Ethics, virtue, social harmony

Existentialism

Focuses on individual freedom, choice, and meaning in an indifferent universe

Utilitarianism

Morality is about maximizing overall happiness

Nihilism

Life has no inherent meaning or value

Stoicism

Accept what you cannot control, focus on virtue and reason

Hedonism

The pursuit of pleasure is the highest good

Materialism

Only physical matter exists; mind and soul are products of matter

Idealism

Reality is fundamentally mental or spiritual

Relativism

Truth and morality are not absolute but depend on context or perspective

Pragmatism

Ideas and beliefs should be judged by their practical outcomes

Absurdism

Life is inherently meaningless, but humans seek meaning anyway

What is philosophy?

The study of fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, morality, mind, and reasoning.

What does metaphysics study?

The nature of existence and reality, asking questions like 'What exists?' and 'What is reality made of?'

What is epistemology concerned with?

The study of knowledge and how we know what we know, questioning the certainty of our knowledge.

What does ethics explore?

The study of right and wrong, and how we should live, including questions like 'Is it ever okay to lie?'

What is the focus of logic in philosophy?

The principles of correct reasoning and argumentation.

What does aesthetics examine?

The nature of beauty and what makes something art.

Who was Socrates and what was his famous quote?

An ancient Greek philosopher known for the quote 'The unexamined life is not worth living.'

What did Plato believe in?

The existence of a world of perfect 'forms' or ideas beyond our physical reality.

What was Aristotle's approach to philosophy?

He focused on observing the real world and applying logical reasoning to ethics and science.

What is Descartes known for?

The phrase 'I think, therefore I am,' emphasizing doubt and certainty.

What was Kant's contribution to philosophy?

He focused on morality, asserting that humans have a duty to act ethically beyond mere desires.

How can one practice philosophy?

By questioning assumptions, engaging in thought experiments, and reflecting on personal beliefs.

What is a thought experiment?

An imaginative scenario used to test philosophical ideas or moral dilemmas.

How can philosophy be applied in daily life?

It helps in making better decisions, understanding perspectives, clarifying values, and contemplating life's meaning.

What is one exercise to question assumptions?

Ask 'Why?' about everyday rules or traditions.

What is a moral dilemma presented in philosophy?

Choosing between saving one person or five people in a life-threatening situation.

What is the purpose of reflecting on one's beliefs?

To understand and articulate why you hold certain beliefs.

What is the significance of philosophy in education?

It encourages critical thinking, reasoning, and the examination of fundamental questions.

What is a philosophy starter kit?

A collection of key thinkers, texts, and exercises to help engage with philosophical thinking.